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 retreats
A programme of optional morning and evening meditations,
with about 3 hours drumming workshop each morning - African djembe playing,
with percussion. There is free time in which you
can do what you want: go for walks, swims, relax.
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 three daily periods of guided meditation.
In the evenings there are 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 MMVIII photography: Chris Hill and others design/webmaster: George Grant
