Amitavati could be said to be in permanent
'retreat mode' where a pattern of activities takes place and visitors
can come and go, join in or do their own thing. There might be four or
five people living here at any one time. One of these could be undertaking
a solitary retreat for which facilities will be available shortly. From
time to time however, groups of up to 14 are organised (see programme)
and retreats are run along more specific lines:
Drumming
Shaman's Path
Painting and Sculpture
Meditation
Working
Drumming Days
Usually 10.30 - 5.00 either
at Amitavati or the Valencia Buddhist Centre. A
programme of about 3 hours drumming workshop each day - African djembe
playing, with percussion. There is free time in which
you can do what you want: go for walks, swims, relax. No need to bring
drums as we have plenty. Please bring food to share. We may be able to
arrange a lift for you but there is a bus from Valencia to Villar-del-Arzobispo.
You can bring children if they can play amongdt themselves and you provide
food. If they want to take part in the drumming there is a charge of 15
(or 10) euros per child.
Please make reservations with Vidyasri or Suratna:
Tel: 96 2134428 or 659401036 or email vidyasrila@gmail.com
The Shaman's Path retreats
Retreats exploring, deepening and celebrating our relationship
with nature and ourselves, using the ancient practise of 'shamanic journeying',
rituals with the elements: earth, water, fire and air,
and some traditional Buddhist meditation practices.
Painting and Sculpture retreats
A programme of optional morning and evening meditations,
with periods of painting in different mediums, such as oil, water-colour
and acrylics led by experienced and professional artists; and sculpting
in stone and wood. For both beginners and those
with experience. Also free time to do as you wish - enjoy walks, swims,
relaxation.
Meditation retreats
With experienced meditation practitioners and teachers,
addressing different levels of experience of Buddhist
meditations - from beginners to those with many years experience.
Working retreats
These are usually of one week's duration and visitors
can take part in fruit picking, gardening, property maintenance and small
building works. There are normally two daily periods of guided meditation,
morning and evening. In the evenings there is either free time or rituals,
mantra chanting, and musical celebrations. Besides experienced mediators,
those who are keen to learn about meditation and Buddhism in a communal
setting are welcome
© Amitavati MMIX photography: Chris Hill and others design/webmaster: George Grant
