Siddhimala became involved with the Triratna Buddhist Community in 1992 and moved into a community in London before going to live and work at Taraloka retreat Centre in 1994 for 3.5yrs and at Dhanakosa in 2014 for 4 years. She was ordained in 2002 and is inspired by the Bodhisattva ideal - a life in the service of a higher purpose.

She trained to teach Tibetan Yoga (Kum Nye) from 2008-11, which she finds a very helpful addition to the practice of mindfulness and meditation. She enjoys sharing her passions of Meditation, Dharma, walking, kayaking, music and the dance of countryside and wildlife.

The interest in Taiji and Qi Gong started when I was 21 and has continued to be central since.  I came to Scotland in 1993 to study at Glasgow School of Art, where I got a degree in Photography.  I have lived, studied and worked in Scotland since. In 1997 I finished my apprentice training with Rising Dragon Tai Chi.  At the same time, I also qualified as a Kairos therapist. Ever since I have continued learning and developing Taiji and Qi Gong forms, with various teachers.  I have been a Mitra with Triratna since 2013 and have been on various retreats.  I am interested in the importance of ‘embodiment’ or how body work can help us to be more present and alive. I am also very interested in working with energy and healing, as an aid for change.

Open to all, these retreats are suitable for both beginners and those with more experience, but no previous experience is assumed. All these retreats include introductory meditation teaching and periods of silence.