Give yourself the gift of stepping back from everyday life and finding fresh perspective, in the wild and beautiful landscape of Balquhidder Glen.

We will introduce two traditional Buddhist meditations: the mindfulness of breathing and the development of loving kindness (metta bhavana). We will also share some key elements of the Buddhist tradition. As well as giving a grounding in the basic principles of Buddhism and meditation, these retreats are an ideal reflective situation in which to take a fresh look at your life. 

These retreats are suitable for complete beginners to meditation as well as being an ideal refresher for those who already have some experience.

For more information, read the retreat information sheet. 

Are you new to Dhanakosa? Watch our short film to get a sense of the centre, landscape and what it's like being on retreat here. 

Come to Dhanakosa as the glen turns to autumn and experience how connection with nature, landscape and the elements can support a more embodied and easeful approach to life. Watch our short film to hear about the transformative effect of walking retreats at Dhanakosa. 

The retreat offers nature awareness practices and reflections to encourage a deepening relationship with the natural world, combined with guided walking in the landscapes around Dhanakosa. You'll also learn two traditional Buddhist meditations, giving you tools and practices that you can continue at home. We will also explore some Buddhist teachings to get a sense of how these might be relevant in modern life. 

The retreat will include three days of guided walks, spread throughout the week. We will normally offer different walks on each of these days to suit a range of levels of fitness and experience. All walks are in the local area but some require a short drive to get to the starting point. For more information on the walks, recommended fitness levels and the appropriate clothing and footwear to bring, please read the retreat information sheet. 

You can also watch our short video talking about the different types of walking retreat, guided walk options and what to bring with you. 

An introductory retreat - no previous experience of meditation is assumed - the retreat is suitable for complete beginners, and can also be a good refresher for those who already have some meditation experience.

On this retreat we will explore how our connection with nature, landscape, and the elements can support a deepening of awareness and a more embodied and harmonious approach to life. We will weave together Buddhist teachings, meditation practice, and an appreciative and playful investigation of the natural world around us to create an experience of depth and connection. 

The retreat will include lead walks, outdoor activities, an introduction to Buddhist meditation, Buddhist ethics, and basic Buddhist teachings looked at from a practical perspective. But perhaps more importantly than all of this is the opportunity to experience ourselves away from the trappings of our everyday lives and to relax into the freedom and spontaneity of our basic relationship with natural world around us. For it is this relaxation that supports a deeper understanding of ourselves and stronger appreciation of the connection with those around us. 

These retreats are suitable for complete beginners to meditation, and those who already have some experience.

For more information, read the retreat information sheet.