At times like these we might find ourselves with some uncertainty about ourselves and about the world. Everything around us seems to be shifting: structures of society, political directions of countries, and values that seemed to be long-established and firmly rooted. In this time, when solid ground seems scarce, we can look together at in-between states.

Who, and how, are we on shifting grounds? Who is ‘me’ when I do not recognize myself anymore? Tibetan tradition calls these experiences of in-between times, of gaps and transitions, ‘bardos’. Bardos describe what happens after our physical death, and the teachings are also concerned with impermanence, as we can observe it both in life and in death.

Taking the verses of the Six Bardos from the Tibetan Book of the Dead as a basis, we will explore how we experience moments of transition, in everyday life, in interaction and in meditation. We will look at themes like: How to be with loss? What happens when the old (me) dies? Who is this ‘I’ that is present, even when identity is absent?

Easy physical improvisational exercises will help us to become more present, and open to more light and joy. This will enrich our attention within and outside of meditation with the spirit of discovery. On this retreat we will apply what we notice in the physical experience straight to our meditation. 

This retreat is suitable for complete beginners to meditation as well as being an ideal refresher for those who already have some experience. No experience of movement is required, only a willingness to explore your experience of movement in the body you are living in. For more information, read the retreat information sheet.