The perfect retreat getaway
Set in an idyllic retreat venue in tranquil surroundings facing the ocean. Between meditations you can enjoy walking by the sea and on the coastal path, sitting in the garden by the stream, relaxing in the outdoor hot-tub or wandering around the 17th Century historic harbour.
The power of silence
Normally we are constantly distracted by external objects, busy activities and scattered thoughts. Observing silence is a powerful method to disengage us from busyness and to deepen our contemplation and concentration. The retreat has periods of silence and participants are asked to switch off their phones for the duration of the retreat.
The retreat
This weekend retreat guided by Buddhist nun, Kelsang Yonchen, is an opportunity to go deep into the nature and power of the mind through engaging in the initial stages of Mahamudra meditation.
By receiving the teachings on Mahamudra we learn how to meditate on the nature and function of our own mind. Through deep contemplation and meditation on these pointing out instructions we will come to experience the deep peace and stillness that is available within the heart of each one of us.
Eventually through practising all the stages of Mahamudra in conjunction with Buddha’s teachings on Sutra and Tantra we shall come to experience the actual Mahamudra that is the union of our own great bliss and emptiness, the ultimate nature of all reality.
“Buddha Shakyamuni said: If you realize your own mind you will become a Buddha. You should not seek Buddhahood elsewhere.”
During this retreat we receive guidance on how to meditate skilfully on the initial stages of Mahamudra. Through gaining experience on retreat you will then have confidence to continue this practise in your daily life if you wish.
There will be four guided meditation sessions each day, with plenty of time between sessions to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and delicious vegetarian food.
The retreat will be held in silence as this is conducive to a deeper experience, and participants are asked to turn off their devices for the duration.
It is amazing what can be accomplished over a weekend only, and participants consistently reflect on how refreshed, happy, and well they feel by the end of the weekend.
For those coming from further away, it is possible to get lifts from Aberdeen, and we can help arrange overnight accommodation in Aberdeen before and after the course.
The retreat begins on Friday with dinner at 6pm and first session at 7:30pm, and finishes at 4pm on Sunday.
More info
More info:
- The course is available to join in person only.
- Each session includes guided meditation and short teachings
- The retreat includes some silent periods in the mornings
- The retreat is run by volunteers and participants are expected to join as part of the retreat experience in with small jobs to help the retreat run smoothly.
- The food is simple homemade vegetarian food and we can cater for vegan / gluten-free requirements if arranged in advance. We recommend bringing some of your own supplies if you have specific requirements.
- 1hr 20mins from Aberdeen and Inverness
- All income goes to running the centre which is a registered charity.
Accommodation
Schedule
Getting There
Kelsang Yonchen is the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Centre Aberdeen. She has been practising Kadampa Buddhism for over 14 years and was ordained as a Buddhist nun in 2023. Before moving to Aberdeen, she served as the Resident Teacher at Ganden Ling Kadampa Meditation Centre in Cornwall. Yonchen is known for her warm heart, practical wisdom, and clear, accessible teaching style that makes Buddha’s teachings easy to understand and apply in daily life.
