Retreating ...

So, what does a retreat look like in 21st century Stanhope?

What are the issues of likely visitors, residential and daily?

What are the aspirations of the organisers?

This is where the blog really needs collaborative writing, because the Retreat Centre has to be a collaboration ... and whilst such places may take many forms, this one will reflect the founders and their philosophies ... not easy to define, but compassion is key and flowing from that a desire to relieve suffering ... an understanding that the root of suffering is thinking ... and that along with mindfulness training and practice, an integrated programme may include care of the body, through understanding the poisonous potential of processed food, the practical lessons of preparing simple dishes from pure ingredients, sourced locally, some grown in the garden ... and eating together at tables (a practice fast disappearing in many families) and speaking of "fast", why not a preliminary day without food, to reset the system ... some silent meals to embed the mindfulness ... guided walks in the beautiful local Nature ... yoga ...tai chi ... group discussions ...

Reports from the world of potential participants report increasing levels of stress, anxiety, depression.

All this while knowledge increases .... suggesting that more learning is not the answer .... maybe unlearning what no longer serves first ... rediscovering the simplicity in slowing down ...

How about "The Art of Living" ...

For the Facebook refuseniks (including the editor), here's this resonant report from Kelly Brogan ... hope you like it ...

Healers welcome at the Retreat House ... Charlie?