Dhiraka has been practicing since his student days and was ordained in 2005. He is fascinated by the 'problem' of teaching meditation - of communicating what is a very private practice and helping others to 'get it' when he can't 'see' directly the fruits of their efforts. It is a subtle art and one that Dhiraka takes seriously, but does so with a lot of humour as well. He also teaches meditation in secular contexts.

Vidyadipa (Lesley Burr) discovered meditation whilst a student at Glasgow School of Art in 1982.

Her focus for many years was developing her artwork, searching for meaning and truth through image making.  Moving to the remote Shetland Isles in 1994 was to be an important step in becoming a Buddhist. Away from all things familiar it was an inspiring time setting up a new studio by the sea, making paintings touched by an elemental windswept landscape. 

 “Nature always has a way of helping me see more clearly, finding new themes or ideas and understanding more. I love sharing experiences with people, such as with teaching and to see how this can develop through creativity and awareness.”

Her paintings have an emotional sensitivity, even intensity, they are symbolic landscapes layered with colour, meaning and imagery that represent nature and world.

Vidyadipa lives in Argyll with her family where the West Coast seeps into the iconography of her work.

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.