Where do we turn when we come up against difficulties in life?
In the space of this retreat, led with warmth and depth, we will be learning about a traditional teaching called the four mind turning verses. The subjects of these four reflections can bring us into a direct relationship with: the deeply precious opportunity afforded by our human life; the truth of death and impermanence; karma, or the fact that our actions have consequences for ourselves and others; and the many disadvantages of this conditioned, unsatisfactory, worldly existence.
All of these might be called ‘the facts of life’ from the Buddhist perspective. They are wake-up calls, jolts to our complacency, articulations of the troubling voice of reality as it impacts on our immediate experience. As we go through them we are saying to ourselves, ``Remember, reflect, wake up to the truth, turn your heart towards freedom!”
We’ll explore these reflections with guided meditations, short talks and discussions and within an atmosphere of community, connection and care for each other - all held in the wild and beautiful landscape of Balquhidder Glen.
No previous experience of meditation or Buddhism is assumed, so this retreat is suitable for complete beginners as well as being a good refresher for people with 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.
£100