BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Plum Village UK - ECPv6.16.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Plum Village UK
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Plum Village UK
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:Europe/London
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20240331T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20241027T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20250330T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20251026T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20260329T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20261025T010000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250504T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250504T120000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250407T191428Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250407T191428Z
UID:64522-1746352800-1746360000@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Mindful Morning
DESCRIPTION:On the first Sunday of every month\, we offer a Morning of Mindfulness led by UK Lay Dharma Teachers\, Members of the Order of Interbeing\, Monastic Dharma Teachers and special guests. \nThe morning will typically include a guided meditation\, followed by a talk or panel. After a short break\, there will be an opportunity for Dharma sharing in groups. \n  \nMain image by Maria Baltazzi on Unsplash
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/monthly-mindful-morning/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Mindful Morning
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250505T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250505T203000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250503T211242Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250503T211242Z
UID:65391-1746471600-1746477000@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Neurodiversity Sangha
DESCRIPTION:The Smiling Sitters online group is specialising in PTSD\, ADHD and Neurodiversity-related conditions. We wish to offer space for people who feel less able to fit into other groups and want a group that accommodates and addresses their needs. \nFor any questions and joining details\, please email Sylvia: sylvia.clare@btinternet.com \nHeld on Zoom as it allows people to attend with their camera off and to feel safe until they are ready to show their faces.  \n  \n  \nPhoto by KOJI FUTAMI on Unsplash
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/neurodiversity-sangha-2/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250506T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250506T200000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250423T120409Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250423T120409Z
UID:65161-1746558000-1746561600@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Engaged Practice for Peace
DESCRIPTION:Hosted by Lesley Collington\, Theresa Payne and Sangha friends\n  \nLet us offer the world the best flowers and fruit of our practice\, lucidity\, solidity\, brotherhood\, sisterhood\, understanding and compassion.  Let us give rise to the determination to look deeply into the nature of fear\, anger\, hatred\, and violence and to give rise to the eyes of compassion \n– Thich Nhat Hanh \nMany are deeply affected by ongoing violence in Ukraine\, The Middle East\, and continuous conflicts around the world\, which are causing great suffering. How can we support those who are in distress and also take gentle care of our own strong emotions? \n  \nYou are warmly invited to join us as we take refuge for an hour of peace\, and the precious opportunity to practise with friends in the wider Sangha\, breathing together\, listening deeply\, sharing what is in our heart. \nWe know that mindful breathing is a concrete way to bring the practice of peace into our life\, and help us defuse strong emotions\, and establish solidity\, calm and concentration in our mind and heart.  We must take good care of our self before we can be there for others. \nPlease join us for a guided meditation\, a reading\, music and Dharma Sharing. \nIn our next sessions we are inviting members of the group to share news about any peace initiatives they are aware of in their communities: locally\, nationally and internationally.
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/engaged-practice-peace/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250509T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250511T170000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20241223T193835Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241223T193835Z
UID:61864-1746817200-1746982800@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:The Art of Zen - Introductory Weekend | Buckinghamshire
DESCRIPTION:The Art of Zen course was formerly called Be Calm Be Happy \nSCHEDULE\nFriday: 7 – 9 PM\nSaturday: 9:30 AM – 5 PM\nSunday: 9:30 AM – 5 PM\nWe recommend that you arrive by 6.45 pm on Friday to settle in before the course starts. The Friday evening session is key to the whole course and includes the first and foundational teaching session. Please make sure you are able to attend this session (and both full days) before booking. \n  \n\n\n\n  \nCourse Overview\nMindfulness encourages a sense of wellbeing moment by moment\, as well as being aware of what is happening in the present moment without reacting to it. \nThe course offers a deeper understanding of mindfulness and how it can support many aspects of your daily life. \nThe wisdom of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh (pronounced “Tik Nat Harn”) teaches us to find a sense of peace within ourselves\, and serenity in the face of suffering. In a supportive community of like-minded people we experience developing more kindness and compassion. \nWe will introduce and explore new ways of bringing mindfulness into our day\, not only in meditation\, but also in how we eat\, behave\, speak to ourselves and others\, and take care of ourselves. \nCourse Content\n\nStopping and Calming\nTurning to the Positive\nLoving Communication\nNourishing Happiness\nInterdependence and Community\nGuidelines for a Happier Life\n\nThis Course Offers\n— An introduction to Thich Nhat Hanh’s approach to mindfulness from experienced practitioners. How it works and how to build a mindfulness practice that is stable and self-reliant. \n— A sense of support\, connection and community by practising and sharing with course participants. \n— Understanding ways to cope with life’s stresses\, reducing feelings such as loneliness\, anxiety\, anger and depression by establishing a stable and lasting mindfulness practice. \n— Understanding ways to develop a greater sense of wellbeing and inner peace in everyday life as a means of generating compassion\, joy and calm for yourself and others. \n— Practical exercises to help you bring more awareness to your experiences\, understand the importance of rest\, and what it means to be more Zen. \n— Practical ways to connect more deeply with family and friends by learning the art of compassionate speech and deep listening. \nThroughout the course\, you will be supported in finding ways to bring mindfulness more fully into your life through formal and informal exercises practised in each session. \nWe assist you to look at making incremental\, sustainable changes to your daily life. This allows you to make time and space for mindfulness and meditation. \nWe encourage you to look honestly at how you currently operate and to be willing to make adjustments to help you live a more authentic life. \nReported Benefits\n— Increased enjoyment of life \n— Increased ability to be calm and relaxed \n— Increased control of emotions such as anger and anxiety \n— Improved sleep quality \n— Fewer feelings of anxiety and low mood \nWho Can Attend?\nThis course is suitable for adults who are beginners\, as well as more experienced practitioners wishing to gain a fuller understanding of how mindfulness can support calm and peaceful living. Mindfulness is a practice originating in Buddhism and supported by neuroscience and psychology; it may be practised by those of all faiths and none. \nMany of our participants learn new ways to care for their wellbeing and can develop positive responses to challenging situations. \n  \nCourse Leaders\n\nJan Cook \nJan has been practising meditation and a Zen lifestyle since 2011. When she met Thich Nhat Hanh’s (Thay) teachings\, she realised that she had found her spiritual home and a day to day mindfulness practice to experience a calmer and happier life. She still knows this was the right decision for her and has continued to put mindfulness practice at the centre of her life. \nJan is now offering the Art of Zen courses with other course leaders and is committed to enabling others to connect and to share with others in a community of practice (Sangha). She knows that each course offers new perspectives and insights into the teachings and enjoys the freshness and challenges that each group brings as they engage with the course content. \nJan’s background is in education and she has organised and led events in many different places in the world\, training adults in a variety of skills (including IT). She is firmly committed to the Plum Village approach to mindfulness and received the transmission of the Five Mindfulness Trainings in 2015\, and is now an Aspirant to become an Order member. \nJan’s (dharma) name is Inner Peace of the Heart. \n  \n\nPascale Scheurer \nPascale has been practicing Insight Meditation since 2012\, and discovered Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings around 2014\, taking their family to Plum Village in France for a week in the Summer of 2018. They were given the dharma name “Patient Joy of the Heart” in 2019\, along with the Five Mindfulness Trainings\, and trained to give this course in early 2020 just before the pandemic. \nLiving in Marlow since 2018\, Pascale has led meditation sessions and dharma sharing circles in their home and garden\, and aspires to co-host a Marlow Sangha (community circle) meeting regularly in person for mindfulness practice. They have taught Thich Nhan Hanh’s “Ten Mindful Movements”\, simple Tai Chi movements that anyone can follow or adapt to suit their capabilities. \nPascale is an architect by background\, specialising in public education and school design for children with social\, emotional\, behavioural and mental health challenges. They trained as a coach 2019-2020 to help parents and schools support children and teens who don’t enjoy attending mainstream school. \nPascale is passionate about intersectional equity\, diversity and inclusion\, striving to make all their mindfulness offerings a safe\, accessible and welcoming space for BAME/BIPOC\, LGBTQIA+\, neurodiverse and disabled participants. If you have any questions or requirements\, please ask. \nBoth course leaders follow the Five Mindfulness Trainings which are Thich Nhat Hanh’s version of the 5 precepts of the Buddha. You will learn about this ethical code of conduct on the course. \n  \nPractical Information\nVenue\nThe Garden Room\, Liston Hall\, \, Chapel Street (corner of Liston Road)\,  Marlow\, Buckinghamshire  SL7 1DD \nListon Hall is in the centre of Marlow town. \nCar Parking\nThe venue is accessible with disabled parking nearby. There is a bus stop very close and the train station is a ten minute walk away. Liston Road Pay & Display car park is just next door. \nRefreshments\nTea / coffee / herbal teas will be available. You are invited to bring a vegetarian packed lunch to eat during the lunch breaks together. There are also cafes and shops close by. \nAccessibility\nListon Hall is a single-storey building\, fully accessible for wheelchair users / restricted mobility including accessible toilets. \nPricing\nStandard Rate | £145\nThis rate helps us to sustain the course. \nSupporter Rate | £175\nSupport others on lower income to attend. \nSponsor Rate | £200\nThis rate helps us to sustain the course\, and allows us to offer it to those on a lower income. \nDiscounted Rate | £95\nFor students and participants on a low income who cannot afford the standard rate. \nSupported Rate | £30\nLimited availability ticket for those with no income or specific circumstances. \nPlum Village UK is a not for profit charity based in the UK\, dedicated to sharing the practice of mindfulness and mindful living in the Plum Village tradition. \nThe pricing range enables us to cover marketing and admin costs\, and ensure the continuation of the courses well into the future. If you are not sure which rate to choose and would like some guidance\, please contact us and we will be happy to help you. Nobody should be excluded from taking part based on their income or life circumstances. \nRefund Policy\nIf you cancel your booking at least 14 days before the start of the course we will refund your course fee. We shall be unable to refund you later than this. \n  \nFrequently Asked Questions\nWhat should I bring with me? \n\nA pen and notebook for journaling.\nA meditation cushion\, stool\, mat or blanket – or whatever helps you to be comfortable\, particularly during the meditation sessions. Chairs will be provided.\nA packed lunch. We will be invited to eat together during the break for lunch. Local cafes and shops are also a short walk away.\nA selection of hot drinks will be available. But if you have a favourite drink\, or wish to bring a snack for yourself or to share\, please bring this.\nPlease advise us of any allergies or intolerances.\n\nWhat should I wear? \nPlease dress casually and comfortably. You may find it helpful to wear several layers\, so that you can remove/add a layer to maintain a comfortable body temperature during the day and particularly while meditating. Some people bring slippers or a blanket. \nWhat do I need to do to prepare? \nYou do not need to do anything to prepare for the course. This course is designed to be suitable for beginners and all the information you need will be provided. \nDuring the course we will propose some home practices and routine activities to help you integrate mindfulness and meditation into your daily life\, including apps and links to guided meditations online. \nMobile phones \nIn the spirit of sustaining mindfulness\, shared experience and practice\, we invite participants to turn off their phones during the course and not use them around other participants during breaks. If this will be a concern for you\, please get in touch. \nWhat further information will I receive? \nYou will receive a confirmation email once you have registered. You will also receive an invitation email from the course leaders near to the start date with additional information about the venue\, local accommodation and eateries\, and the detailed course schedule. We will endeavour to answer all participants’ questions at least two weeks before the course. \nContact Us \nIf there is anything else you would like to know before the course starts please do not hesitate to contact either of us. Please allow a week or so for replies. Closer to the course start date\, emails will be checked daily. \nPascale (primary contact)  pascale@plumvillage.uk  \nJan jancook@plumvillage.uk
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/the-art-of-zen-weekend-mindfulness-course-2/
CATEGORIES:Course,Retreat
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250511T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250511T150000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250318T143847Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T143847Z
UID:64163-1746968400-1746975600@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:The Art of Zen - 6 Week Introductory Course
DESCRIPTION:The Art of Zen was formerly Be Calm Be Happy \n  \nThis 6-week group course will help you develop and deepen your own practice of zen and meditation\, following the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh (the “father of mindfulness”). \nThere will be a two-hour session each week. Each of these will be interactive\, using a mixture of guided meditations\, group discussions\, and practical exercises. You will learn how to bring more peace and joy into your daily life. \nAll our courses are led by practitioners with many years experience. Although mindfulness training is rooted in Buddhist meditation techniques\, it is not a belief system and the course is suitable for those of all faiths or none –  everyone is welcome. \n  \n\n  \nCourse Content\nWeek 1 – Stopping and Calming \n\nHow to be present in the moment\nReducing stress and anxiety\nSimple breathing techniques\n\nWeek 2 – Turning to the Positive \n\nRetraining our mind’s negativity bias\nPractising gratitude\nThe conditions for happiness already available to us\n\nWeek 3 – Loving Communication \n\nHow to communicate with awareness\nDeep listening and loving speech\nBuilding better relationships\n\nWeek 4 – Nourishing Happiness \n\nBeing present with our senses\nMusic and time in nature\nAwareness of what we eat and otherwise consume\n\nWeek 5 – Interdependence and Community \n\nConnectedness of all things\nCultivating compassion\nCommunity in daily life\n\nWeek 6 – Guidelines for a Happier Life \n\nEthics and happiness\nEthical guidelines\nLiving with kindness\n\nMethod\nThroughout the course\, you will be encouraged to develop your own practice of mindfulness. In both the group setting and at home\, you can learn how to integrate mindfulness into your daily life and consider what will best support you. \nYou will have the opportunity to connect with others and will have access to resources and support to help you on your journey\, including how to find groups and communities (sanghas). \nYou will be encouraged to cultivate a greater awareness of the present moment\, learning how to observe thoughts and feelings without judgement\, and to practise being fully present in daily life. The aim is to cultivate a sense of inner peace and to live in harmony with the world around you. \nCommitment\nFor this course to be effective\, we recommend attending all six sessions. Creating a strong mindfulness habit will need some regular practice alongside the course. Daily practice is ideal – if you can only spare a few minutes each day this will still be effective. \nIf you know ahead of time that you cannot make a session\, you can discuss this with your course leader. \nYou will need access to a laptop or phone with internet access\, plus a functioning camera and microphone. \nPricing\nWe hope to make this course available to as many people as possible. A wide range of prices are offered – from £30 – £200. Please pay what you are able when booking \nFurther Information\nFurther information can be found on the course TicketTailor page
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/the-art-of-zen-6-week-introductory-course-8/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Course
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250511T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250511T150000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250412T125238Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250413T094328Z
UID:63478-1746968400-1746975600@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:The Art of Zen – 6 Week Introductory Course
DESCRIPTION:The Art of Zen was formerly Be Calm Be Happy. \nDevelop and deepen your own practice of meditation and zen\, and find inner peace. Following the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh \, the Zen Master who brought mindfulness meditation to the West. \nThere will be a two-hour session each week. Each of these will be interactive\, using a mixture of guided meditations\, group discussions\, and practical exercises. You will learn how to bring more peace and joy into your daily life. \nAll our courses are led by practitioners with many years experience. Although mindfulness training is rooted in Buddhist meditation techniques\, it is not a belief system and the course is suitable for those of all faiths or none –  everyone is welcome. \n \nCourse Content\nWeek 1 – Stopping and Calming \n\nHow to be present in the moment\nReducing stress and anxiety\nSimple breathing techniques\n\nWeek 2 – Turning to the Positive \n\nRetraining our mind’s negativity bias\nPractising gratitude\nThe conditions for happiness already available to us\n\nWeek 3 – Loving Communication \n\nHow to communicate with awareness\nDeep listening and loving speech\nBuilding better relationships\n\nWeek 4 – Nourishing Happiness \n\nBeing present with our senses\nMusic and time in nature\nAwareness of what we eat and otherwise consume\n\nWeek 5 – Interdependence and Community \n\nConnectedness of all things\nCultivating compassion\nCommunity in daily life\n\nWeek 6 – Guidelines for a Happier Life \n\nEthics and happiness\nEthical guidelines\nLiving with kindness\n\nMethod\nThroughout the course\, you will be encouraged to develop your own practice of mindfulness. In both the group setting and at home\, you can learn how to integrate mindfulness into your daily life and consider what will best support you. \nYou will have the opportunity to connect with others and will have access to resources and support to help you on your journey\, including how to find groups and communities (sanghas). \nYou will be encouraged to cultivate a greater awareness of the present moment\, learning how to observe thoughts and feelings without judgement\, and to practise being fully present in daily life. The aim is to cultivate a sense of inner peace and to live in harmony with the world around you. \nCommitment\nFor this course to be effective\, we recommend attending all six sessions. Creating a strong mindfulness habit will need some regular practice alongside the course. Daily practice is ideal – if you can only spare a few minutes each day this will still be effective. \nIf you know ahead of time that you cannot make a session\, you can discuss this with your course leader. \nYou will need access to a laptop or phone with internet access\, plus a functioning camera and microphone. \nPrevious Feedback\nThe supportiveness of the whole group was lovely\, and I was surprised to be able to feel that with an online course. I came away from each session feeling calm and happy \nThis has been a life-changing experience \nI’ve experienced a very real shift in my ability to be present and enjoy simple things \nPricing\nWe hope to make this course available to as many people as possible. A wide range of prices are offered – from £30 – £200. Please pay what you are able when booking \nFurther Information\nFurther information can be found on the course TicketTailor page
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/the-art-of-zen-6-week-introductory-course-7/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/05-aoz-clear-bg-on-ripples-16-9.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250511T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250511T193000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250411T205359Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250411T205359Z
UID:64726-1746986400-1746991800@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:White Awareness Sangha
DESCRIPTION:We invite sangha friends living in ‘white bodies’ to look deeply into the roots of racism\, and learn to transform the legacies of oppression and injustice that marginalise ‘bodies of culture’ within our communities\, within the UK\, and globally. \nWe will include time for sitting meditation\, a reflective reading or talk\, and a time for sharing. \nResources\nOur white awareness sangha meets following the Call to Love in Action shared by ARISE Plum Village Sangha. \nDharma teacher Ruth King writes about the benefit of racial affinity groups here. \nWe have all been deeply hurt by the way our past and present society has categorised\, separated\, and limited us based on the illusion of  ‘race’.   \nAs we support one another to experience our own relationship to this and deepen our understanding through compassionate listening and loving speech\, we begin to embrace and transform the ancestral suffering within us and around us\, and take steps on the path to inclusive sanghas where all people can find a home. \nSupported by the Sangha Body\nMy practice flows easier\,\nAllowing me to swiftly realize\nMy great determination to love and understand all beings.
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/white-awareness-sangha/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250513T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250513T203000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250512T125044Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250512T125044Z
UID:65635-1747162800-1747168200@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Rainbow Sangha
DESCRIPTION:Who we are\nAs people identifying under this umbrella\, we may face challenges and discrimination within ourselves and from the outside. Our wish is to support each other and to acknowledge our own uniqueness and connectedness. \nWe co-create a mindful space where we can equally share our pain and our joy\, where we don’t need to assess risks of showing who we truly are or edit the queerness of our experience for the perceived benefit of others. We enjoy being joyfully together. \nWhat we do\nWithin Rainbow Sangha\, we have created a space that’s welcoming and open to anyone interested in the practice of mindfulness. Some of us have been practising for years and others are just starting out on their path of practice. We are mindful to explain and explore how we practice so that we all can benefit. \nMeeting on Zoom has allowed our sangha to be open to all\, regardless of location\, and we welcome participants from around the globe. Most of us join with our video enabled but some join only with audio\, whatever works best for each person. \nAs well as our weekly Rainbow Sangha\, we have a gender diverse sangha which meets monthly\, and a study group which meets twice a month. \nWhat we say\nIt is a very friendly\, warm\, and supportive community. What amazes me especially is how diverse it is: every part of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum seems to be represented\, and there is also a wide range of ages and life experiences. This makes the process of dharma sharing incredibly rich. \n— Mark S\, gay\, cis-gendered male\, age 65 \nit is no exaggeration to say Plum Village and this Sangha have transformed my life for the better. It is a great source of comfort\, stability and happiness for me. It is very welcoming\, kind and supportive\, like a big warm hug. \n— Jules\, cis-gendered lesbian\, age 48 \nRainbow Sangha is a place where I feel safe and allows me to be me! We practice deep listening and Dharma sharing\, meditation and Thay’s teachings and I feel valued\, accepted and loved! I love my new virtual family!! \n— Julie (she/her) \nThe welcome\, warmth and wisdom of friends from across the spectrum has nourished me to grow in myself and the support and sharing is an inspiration. A simply joyous space. \n— K8 MacKenzie – she/her \nThe sangha is a truly welcoming\, warm\, honest and nurturing space and it’s so beautiful to see friendly diverse faces each week and to share time together. \n— Natalie \nI really like the fact that the sangha is completely rainbow spectrum Inclusive especially as for TNB people for whom diverse sexuality is also relevant. \nGary \n  \nJoining Us\nPlease email us at rainbowsanghauk@gmail.com for more information on Rainbow Sangha and how you can join us.
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/rainbow-sangha/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250518T133000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250518T170000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250510T100717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250510T100717Z
UID:65609-1747575000-1747587600@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Family Sangha London
DESCRIPTION:Whether or not you have meditated before\, we would love for you to join us for one of our days of mindfulness which we are currently holding once every month on a Sunday afternoon at the Wandsworth Quaker Meeting House near Clapham Junction. \n  \n\n  \nTogether we practice a guided meditation\, mindful movements\, dharma reading and sharing\, in the tradition of Zen teacher Thich Nhat Hanh. Children and teens will join adults for part of the day and will then have parallel programs facilitated by young people from Wake Up London. \nOur aim is to create an inter-generational day of mindfulness for people of all ages to come together as a mindful family. Our experience of all age family meditation groups on retreats has been of creating wonderful connections across age groups\, and we believe that children benefit from a loving\, spiritual community just as much as adults do. We welcome people outside of London to join us for this event. \nPlease contact us to let us know if you would like to join our mailing list and find out when our next event is. People of all ages with or without children are welcome to come. All children must be accompanied by an adult. \nFor adults without children\, we also recommend the Heart of London sangha or a local Plum Village sangha. You are of course welcome to join our inter-generational community. \nWe really look forward to practicing together and building connections. We’d be grateful if you could take a moment to share about us with sanghas you know\, families and people of all ages who would like to participate. \nA lotus for you\, \nFamily Sangha facilitators \nBelow is a typical schedule for one of our days of mindfulness: \nArrive from 13:45pm \n14:00 Welcome & Mindful movements \n14:30 Parallel spaces \nChildren 4-10\nTeens 11-18\nAdults (guided meditation\, reading\, sharing) \nBabies and toddlers can either stay with the adults or join the children (accompanied by a parent) \n15:30 Tea and snacks (Vegan/Vegetarian…bring snacks to share if you like!) \n16:30 Everyone together for mindful activities (in the garden if weather is favourable) \nWalking meditation\nGratitude circle\nSinging \nClosing to give lots of time to depart by 17:30pm
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/family-sangha-london/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250519T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250519T203000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250512T144258Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250512T144258Z
UID:65643-1747681200-1747686600@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Earth Care Sangha - What Would Thay Do?
DESCRIPTION:Facilitated this month by Nick Cape and Jude Taylorson \nIn the last eight months since we held our first Earth Care sangha the situation politically in the world and for our precious earth has deteriorated. As we face the new reality it is easy to feel despair and be at a loss as to what we can do now; what is the most skillful response? \nWhen the monastics at Plum Village are at a loss as to what to do\, they ask themselves: What would Thay do?.  Thay faced similar situations in Vietnam when things got worse and all looked hopeless\, and we can learn from him. \nIn this Earth Care sangha we will look to Thay’s wisdom and the wisdom of the sangha to support us in this present moment in our history.  \n\nEarth Care Sangha – A Sangha For Our Times\nWe have to wake up together — Thich Nhat Hanh \nMany of us are aware that we live in times of great peril for life on Earth but also of great promise for change. It is easy to be overwhelmed by feelings of helplessness\, despair and sorrow for what is being done to the Earth. But by practising together we can make a positive difference\, and strengthen our resilience and joy. In response to our individual and collective need to do something\, Earth Care Sangha is offered. \nIn small Dharma sharing groups we can explore our feelings and speak openly in the company of others who share our concerns\, safe in the knowledge that we do this without judgement or conflict. We hope that by sharing freely in this way\, we can help each other find concrete ways to transform and heal\, cultivate joy\, and strengthen our understanding of interbeing with Mother Earth. \nGrounded in the Plum Village tradition\, and with close links to the Earth Care Steering Group\, Earth Care Sangha is truly a sangha for these times. We invite you to join us\, enjoy the practices\, and help shape its future. Let’s wake up together! \nPlease email earthcare@plumvillage.uk with any feedback\, questions\, suggestions or offers of help. \nEarth Care Resources \n  \nPhoto by NASA on Unsplash \n  \n\nGuided Meditation: The Four Elements | Sister Chan Duc
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/earth-care-sangha-2/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250522T160000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250526T140000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250410T184016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250410T184016Z
UID:64631-1747929600-1748268000@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Park Place Retreat with Dene Donalds
DESCRIPTION:You are warmly invited to this 4-day retreat organised by members of Heart of London Sangha and Colours of Compassion on the theme INTERBEING. \nIt will be led by Dene Donalds\, one of our most experienced UK Dharma Teachers\, supported by two trainee Dharma Teachers\, Anthony Leete and Lorraine Sherman. \nPark Place is a fine old Georgian House\, set in 18 acres of beautiful grounds. It is close to the Hampshire village of Wickham. This idyllic rural English Manor\, is a home to a small community of Roman Catholic Franciscan Nuns who run the Pastoral Centre\, for people of all ages\, backgrounds and beliefs\, who are interested in spiritual matters. \nSingle and twin rooms are available. \nWe hope that you can join us!
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/park-place-retreat-with-dene-donalds/
CATEGORIES:Retreat
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250523T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250523T140000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250403T152016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250403T152016Z
UID:64484-1748001600-1748008800@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:The Art of Zen - 6 Week Introductory Course
DESCRIPTION:The Art of Zen was formerly Be Calm Be Happy \n  \nThis 6-week group course will help you develop and deepen your own practice of zen and meditation\, following the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh (the “father of mindfulness”). \nThere will be a two-hour session each week. Each of these will be interactive\, using a mixture of guided meditations\, group discussions\, and practical exercises. You will learn how to bring more peace and joy into your daily life. \nAll our courses are led by practitioners with many years experience. Although mindfulness training is rooted in Buddhist meditation techniques\, it is not a belief system and the course is suitable for those of all faiths or none –  everyone is welcome. \n  \n\n  \nCourse Content\nWeek 1 – Stopping and Calming \n\nHow to be present in the moment\nReducing stress and anxiety\nSimple breathing techniques\n\nWeek 2 – Turning to the Positive \n\nRetraining our mind’s negativity bias\nPractising gratitude\nThe conditions for happiness already available to us\n\nWeek 3 – Loving Communication \n\nHow to communicate with awareness\nDeep listening and loving speech\nBuilding better relationships\n\nWeek 4 – Nourishing Happiness \n\nBeing present with our senses\nMusic and time in nature\nAwareness of what we eat and otherwise consume\n\nWeek 5 – Interdependence and Community \n\nConnectedness of all things\nCultivating compassion\nCommunity in daily life\n\nWeek 6 – Guidelines for a Happier Life \n\nEthics and happiness\nEthical guidelines\nLiving with kindness\n\nMethod\nThroughout the course\, you will be encouraged to develop your own practice of mindfulness. In both the group setting and at home\, you can learn how to integrate mindfulness into your daily life and consider what will best support you. \nYou will have the opportunity to connect with others and will have access to resources and support to help you on your journey\, including how to find groups and communities (sanghas). \nYou will be encouraged to cultivate a greater awareness of the present moment\, learning how to observe thoughts and feelings without judgement\, and to practise being fully present in daily life. The aim is to cultivate a sense of inner peace and to live in harmony with the world around you. \nCommitment\nFor this course to be effective\, we recommend attending all six sessions. Creating a strong mindfulness habit will need some regular practice alongside the course. Daily practice is ideal – if you can only spare a few minutes each day this will still be effective. \nIf you know ahead of time that you cannot make a session\, you can discuss this with your course leader. \nYou will need access to a laptop or phone with internet access\, plus a functioning camera and microphone. \nPricing\nWe hope to make this course available to as many people as possible. A wide range of prices are offered – from £30 – £200. Please pay what you are able when booking \nFurther Information\nFurther information can be found on the course TicketTailor page
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/the-art-of-zen-6-week-introductory-course-10/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Course
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250523T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250524T170000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250402T142536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250402T142536Z
UID:64458-1748023200-1748106000@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Monastic Events in Edinburgh
DESCRIPTION:The Friday and Saturday events are complementary but independent – join either or both.  \n  \nAn Evening of Teachings & Reflections\nFri 23 May | 7:00 – 9:00 PM \nSt Cuthbert’s\, 5 Lothian Road\, EH1 2EP\nSuggested donation £10-£15\nDoors at 6.30pm \nStart the weekend with an evening of teachings and personal insights from the monastics. Drawing on lived experience and Buddhist psychology\, they will explore how mindfulness can help us find joy and stability amidst uncertainty\, and how we can stay connected to ourselves and others in times of challenge. \nFriday info and booking \n  \nA Day of Mindfulness in Action\nSat 24 May | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM \nEdinburgh University Chaplaincy\, 1 Bristo Square\, EH8 9AL\nSuggested donation £25-£30 \nSpend the day immersed in guided practice and embodied learning. The programme includes: \n• Sitting and walking meditation\n• Deep relaxation\n• Mindful eating\n• Small-group workshops\n• Practical tools for integrating mindfulness into study\, work\, and daily life \nWhether you’re feeling overwhelmed\, curious\, or simply seeking deeper connection\, this day offers space to pause\, reflect\, and reconnect with what matters most. \nSaturday info and booking \n  \nWho is it for?\nOpen to everyone — including students\, researchers\, professionals\, and experienced mindfulness practitioners. No prior meditation experience is necessary. \n  \nWhat to Bring\nComfortable clothing; a meditation cushion or mat if you prefer (chairs will be provided) \nPlease bring a thermos of your favorite tea or coffee\, or a cold non-alcoholic drink as well as a packed vegetarian or vegan lunch for the day of mindfulness.
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/monastic-events-in-edinburgh/
CATEGORIES:Day Of Mindfulness,Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250525T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250525T203000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250401T202429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T202429Z
UID:64409-1748199600-1748205000@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:The Being Peace Practice Centre Sangha
DESCRIPTION:An evening of practice and updates with the Being Peace team and Trustees \nPlease join us.
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/the-being-peace-practice-centre-sangha-2-2/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250528T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250601T150000
DTSTAMP:20260525T012700
CREATED:20250117T110912Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250117T110912Z
UID:62195-1748444400-1748790000@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Monastic-led Retreat in Scotland - Peace is the Way
DESCRIPTION:  \n\n\n\n  \nLearning how to cultivate peace\, joy and non-fear in ourselves\, even in the heart of great difficulty\, we develop the clarity to know how to act with compassion\, solidity and resilience from a place of love. Knowing how to be fully present for our joy and pain\, we can heal and offer our presence to the world \n– Sister Tam Muoi \nThe wisdom of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh teaches us to find a sense of peace within ourselves and serenity in the face of suffering. In a supportive community of like-minded people\, supported by six monastics led by Sister Tam Muoi from Plum Village\, together we will experience developing more kindness and compassion. \nLocation\nThe University of Stirling’s campus is set in 360 acres of its own extensive grounds with wooded walks and even its own loch. It is regularly described as one of the most beautiful campuses in the world. \nThe campus is just two miles from the centre of Stirling in central Scotland. Stirling is very accessible by train for all parts of the UK and there are excellent other public transport links from Glasgow and Edinburgh. There is a frequent shuttle-bus service from Stirling railway station. \nAccommodation\nAccommodation is all in single ensuite rooms. If you would like to be next to family and friends\, you can let us know. All rooms are charged at the same rate. There is no children’s programme\, however if you would like to register an under-18 on the retreat\, please contact us to discuss your requirements \nFive Mindfulness Trainings\nThere will be an opportunity to take the Five Mindfulness Trainings. You can indicate an interest in this when booking or during the retreat itself. \nCost\nThe cost is £500.00 per person. £400 of this covers full board\, the use of university facilities\, hire of equipment and travel costs for the monastics. The remaining £100 will be donated to Plum Village to support their work. \nDana\nThere will be an opportunity to offer additional dana (generosity\, giving) in support of Plum Village at the end of the retreat. \nSupported Places\nWe are asking for those who can afford it to offer additional funds towards supported places. These supported places are intended for people who are in financial difficulty. They are offered on a case-by-case basis according to availability. \nFurther Information\nPlease visit our TicketTailor site for further information plus how to book. \n  \nEmail: stirlingretreat@plumvillage.uk
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/scottish-monastic-retreat-peace-is-the-way/
CATEGORIES:Retreat
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=:
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR