The practice of the arts is central to any spiritual or integrative practice, and has been an important part of the Middle Way approach from the beginning. On this retreat we are aiming to combine different kinds of artistic practice with meditation, which can help to create open and creative states of mind. There will also be discussion of exactly how the arts can help us so much, and the opportunity to share what most inspires us. All three of the major forms of the arts (literary, visual, and musical) will be included, but the balance of these can follow the interests of people on the retreat.

Anyone interested in exploring the role of the arts as a practice is welcome: there are no particular expectations about your level of skill or knowledge in any particular art. The emphasis will be on the value of doing it. You will need to have some experience of mindfulness meditation, for example at least a beginner’s course.

The retreat will be led by Robert M. Ellis, who will be drawing on his forthcoming book ‘Mindful Beauty’ to offer some thoughts about the relationship between beauty, mindfulness and creativity.

A typical day on the retreat will include one or two sessions of meditation, a discussion session, three shared meals, a session for sharing arts in a particular form that inspire us (e.g. a musical evening), and free time in the afternoon for creating, socializing, walking or whatever else you wish.

If you need more information about the retreat, please contact Robert using the ‘contact’ tab. To book it, please go to our costs and bookings page.