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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251002T190000
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DTSTAMP:20260524T211500
CREATED:20250808T173029Z
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UID:69800-1759431600-1759438800@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-6-2/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Course
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251005T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251005T160000
DTSTAMP:20260524T211500
CREATED:20250923T155025Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T155025Z
UID:68176-1759656600-1759680000@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Family Day of Mindfulness - Glasgow Dear Green Sangha
DESCRIPTION:Dear Green Sangha is holding a Family Day of Mindfulness and we welcome all who wish to join us. \nOur theme will be Friendship\, and Dharma Teacher Vari Mcluskie will be offering a Dharma Talk upon this topic. \nRegistering \nIf you would like to attend\, please email ceara.east@gmail.com to reserve a place. \nSchedule \n09:30/45 – Arrival for tea & chat\n10:00 – Meditation & Dharma talk\n12:15/30 – Children join\n13:00 – Bring & share lunch\n14:30 – Mindful activities\n16:00- End of afternoon together \nSuggested donation  \n£15 Adult\n£5 Child \nPhoto by David Vig on Unsplash
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/family-day-of-mindfulness-glasgow-dear-green-sangha/
CATEGORIES:Day Of Mindfulness
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251005T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251005T120000
DTSTAMP:20260524T211500
CREATED:20250919T171427Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250919T171427Z
UID:68149-1759658400-1759665600@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Mindful Morning - A birthday party for Thay
DESCRIPTION:A birthday party for Thay – bring tea and cake!\nThe 5th of October is one week before Thay’s birthday (in the historical dimension!) or continuation day (in the ultimate dimension). \nWe therefore invite you to a celebration! This will take the form of a panel of Dharma teachers and senior practitioners\, and yourselves\, to offer a birthday wish for our dear teacher\, and/or perhaps a treasured moment you remember from a teaching that you received from him. \nHappy to say that we will have a panel of six – three elders and three youngers! \nElders\nTheresa Payne\, Angie Searle and Barbara Hickling \nYoungers\nHo-ting Fung\, Jack Davies\, Joe Hughes \nThe meditation will be ’Together in Peace’ in honour of Thay’s dedication to bringing peace into the world\, the panel sharing will follow\, after which we invite you to bring tea\, cake and a candle\, to offer your own wish and memory in small group sharings. \n\nOn 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 Martin Pitt
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/monthly-mindful-morning-6/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Mindful Morning
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251007
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251011
DTSTAMP:20260524T211500
CREATED:20250806T124108Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250806T124108Z
UID:69799-1759795200-1760140799@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Love and the Earth Retreat
DESCRIPTION:We are children of the Earth\, we could not exist without the Earth’s continued love and support.\nThe Earth also needs our love and support\, especially in this time of climate and environmental crisis. If we are to return the Earth’s love for us\, we have to know how to love. \nTo love\, in the context of Buddhism\, is above all to be there. But being there is not an easy thing. Some training is necessary\, some practice. If you are not there\, how can you love? Being there is very much an art\, the art of meditation\, because meditating is bringing your presence to the here and now.\n\n— Thich Nhat Hanh \nThis retreat will explore our relationship with the Earth\, and how can we come back to living in harmony and love for the Earth. How we can maintain our sense of well-being in the face of the changes this involves. \nThe programme will include meditation\, talks\, discussion and walking in the beautiful environment of Wiston Lodge. \n  \n\nMurray Corke\nMurray was ordained by Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh in 1994 into the Order of Interbeing and as a lay Dharma teacher in 2004. \nMurray is a long­standing member of the Cambridge Interbeing Sangha. He is a veterinary surgeon and conservationist\, who enjoys working with wood\, and sailing. He has been facilitating Interbeing retreats in Britain and Poland for several years. \n  \nTravel\nLanark train station is the nearest to Wiston Lodge and can be reached via Glasgow Central Station. It is a 20 minute drive/bus journey from Lanark train station to Wiston Lodge. Taxis from Lanark station must be pre-booked in advance. \nThere are three local taxi companies: \nCaledonian Cabs 07467 133388 \nClydewide Taxis 01555 666333 \nGo Travel Scotland 01555 666666 / 01555 777777 \nStuart’s Coaches are the Bus Provider from Lanark. Bus numbers 30\, 30A\, 31 & 31A and all stop near Wiston Village. \nThere is a bus service from Edinburgh to Dumfries (101) which stops near Wiston village and is operated by Houston’s. \n  \n\nMain image by Scotland on Unsplash
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/love-and-the-earth-retreat/
LOCATION:Wiston Lodge\, Millrigg Road\, Wiston\, Biggar\, South Lanarkshire\, ML12 6HT\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Retreat
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251008T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251008T140000
DTSTAMP:20260524T211500
CREATED:20250808T173736Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250808T173736Z
UID:69801-1759924800-1759932000@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-7-2/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Course
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251011T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251012T170000
DTSTAMP:20260524T211500
CREATED:20250811T142510Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250811T142510Z
UID:69803-1760176800-1760288400@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:The Art of Zen - Newcastle Weekend Mindfulness Course
DESCRIPTION:The Art of Zen was formerly Be Calm Be Happy \nWe are a UK Charity promoting mindfulness and ethical living as a path to peace\, both in ourselves and in the world. \nBased on the teachings of “father of mindfulness” Thich Nhat Hanh. \n\nCourse Overview\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 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. \nThis course provides\n\nAn opportunity to experience the power of practising mindfulness in a supportive community\nA grounding in Thich Nhat Hanh’s approach to mindfulness\nA programme of structured learning and guidance from experienced practitioners\, which helps build a mindfulness practice that is stable and self-reliant\nUnderstanding ways to live with less anxiety and a greater sense of wellbeing\nEthical strategies to help cope with life’s stresses and develop inner peace\n\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. \nWhat does the course offer?\n\nAn introduction to mindfulness\, how it works and how to practise it\nReducing feelings such as loneliness\, anxiety\, anger\, and depression by establishing a stable and lasting mindfulness practice\nA sense of connection and community by practising and sharing together with course participants\nPractical exercises to help you bring more awareness to your experiences\, understand the importance of rest\, and what it means to be more Zen\nConnecting more deeply with family and friends by learning the art of compassionate speech and deep listening\nThe art of mindfulness in everyday life as a means of generating compassion\, joy and calm for yourself and others\n\nReported benefits\n\nIncreased enjoyment of life\nIncreased ability to be calm and relaxed\nIncreased control of emotions such as anger and anxiety\nImproved sleep quality\nFewer feelings of anxiety and low mood\n\nWho can attend?\nThis course is suitable for beginners\, as well as those 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. \nCourse Leaders\n\nHeather Monro\n\nHeather has been practising\, studying and teaching mindfulness for 15 years. She currently serves as a Buddhist Chaplain at Durham University and is an aspirant to the Order of Interbeing. \nHaving been on a path of pursuing happiness through achievement and collecting medals on the world sporting stage\, she became fascinated with the psychological aspects of being our best selves and turned to supporting others in their journeys as a leadership coach and spiritual companion. In 2017\, feeling increasingly burnt out by pursuing conventional success she had a life-changing realisation – that most personal development just provides people with survival strategies in our broken societal system. \nShe is now dedicated to facilitating transformative journeys for both individuals and organisations through opening hearts and expanding consciousness and aspires to contributing to a more loving\, peaceful and equitable world through mindful practice and a deep understanding of interbeing. \nHeather is based in Durham and practices with the Sacred Earth and Northern Lotus Sanghas. She received the Five Mindfulness Trainings from Plum Village in 2023 and was ordained as a novice nun for a time limited period in 2025 with the dharma name Ocean of Great Dedication. \n  \n\nLetizia Nodari\nLetizia has practised in the Plum Village Zen tradition since 2002. \nShe works as a person-centred counsellor. The teachings and practices she has encountered during her retreats have helped her greatly to deepen her own self-awareness and to inform and enrich her therapeutic interventions. \nShe has attended retreats regularly to deepen her understanding of Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings and increase her ability to incorporate them in her daily life. During an extended stay in Plum Village Monastery at the 2022/23 Rains retreat\, Letizia was deeply moved by the light-heartedness and joyfulness emanated by the monastic community\, and by the depth and stability of their practice. Since that stay\, she has been even more determined to nourish her practice regularly and to share its transformational energy with others. \nLetizia lives in the Northeast and practises with Northern Lotus and York sanghas. She received the Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings in 2024 and her dharma name is True Deep Inclusiveness. \n  \nPractical Info\nLocation\nMindful Therapies Centre\nFirst Floor\nBritish India House\n15 Carliol Square\nNewcastle Upon Tyne NE1 6UF \nUse the entrance located between Metro Repro and Body Zone. \nSchedule\nSaturday 11 Oct: 10 AM – 5 PM\nSunday 12 Oct: 10 AM – 5 PM\nWe recommend arriving 10 minutes early each day. \nParking\nThere is Pay and Display parking\, Monday to Sunday 8 AM to 7 PM. \nPublic Transport\nMetro: Monument or Manors stations.\nBus: Nearest stops are on Market Street.\nRail: Newcastle Central.\nPlease see Tyne and Wear Transport website –  nexus.org.uk – for routes and timetables. \nRefreshments\nTea\, coffee and herbal teas will be available. You may like to bring a packed lunch to enjoy mindful eating together during the break for lunch. Alternatively\, local cafes and shops are also a short walk away. \nAccessibility\nThe centre is accessible for wheelchair users and restricted mobility using a lift. Please let us know in advance if you have accessibility requirements. An accessible toilet is also available. \nAccommodation\nPlease note\, if you live outside the area you will need to arrange your own accommodation for the weekend. This is a non-residential weekend course. \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 allow us to offer it to those on a lower income. \nDiscounted Rate | £95\nFor students and participants on a low income that 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. 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. After this time\, no refunds will be possible. \nFrequently Asked Questions\nWhat should I bring to class?\nYou may find it helpful to bring the following with you:\n– Chairs\, mats\, bolsters will be provided. However you may wish to bring your own meditation cushion\, stool\, mat or blanket or whatever helps you to be comfortable\, particularly during the meditation sessions.\n– A packed lunch to enjoy mindful eating together during the break for lunch. Local cafes and shops are also a short walk away.\n– A pen and notebook for journaling.\n– A selection of hot drinks will be available. But if you have a favourite drink\, please bring this. \n  \nWhat should I wear?\nWe suggest you 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 while meditating. \n  \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. \nWhat further information will I receive?\nYou will receive an automated confirmation email once you have registered. One week beforehand you will receive an email from the Course Leaders. \nContact Us\nWe warmly welcome you onto The Art of Zen mindfulness course. If there is anything else you would like to know before the course starts\, please do not hesitate to contact us. \nWith best wishes\nHeather and Letizia \nletizianodari@plumvillage.uk\nheather@plumvillage.uk \nThe Community of Interbeing UK\nCharity Number 1096680\nPlum Village UK \n\nPARTICIPANT AGREEMENT \nPlease read the sandpit.plumvillage.uk/participant-agreement. It is important that you understand and agree to this
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/the-art-of-zen-newcastle-weekend-mindfulness-course/
LOCATION:Sandpit_0690
CATEGORIES:Course
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251019T133000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251019T170000
DTSTAMP:20260524T211500
CREATED:20250903T173441Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250903T173441Z
UID:67885-1760880600-1760893200@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-3-2/
CATEGORIES:Day Of Mindfulness
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251020T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251020T203000
DTSTAMP:20260524T211500
CREATED:20251003T193844Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251003T193844Z
UID:68387-1760986800-1760992200@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Earth Care Sangha - Taking Refuge in Mother Earth
DESCRIPTION:This month facilitated by Debs Knight and Silvana Mateo\nWe need to learn how to take refuge in Mother Earth – it is the best way to heal and to\nnourish ourselves. \n— Thich Nhat Hanh\, Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet \n\nWhen times are troubling\, we need more than ever to have safe places of refuge. \nWe will listen to a video clip of our teacher\, Thich Nhat Hanh\, who shows us how to surrender and take refuge in Mother Earth. As Thay says\, it’s not hard: ‘We don’t have to do anything at all!’ \nWe are also going to hear a short talk on listening to the Earth offered by Dharma Teacher Dr Larry Ward\, who passed on recently\, in loving tribute to him and his work. \nPlease join Debs\, Silvana and sangha friends for an evening of practice that features these two teachings as well as guided meditation and Dharma sharing in small breakout groups. Everyone is welcome. \n\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. \n\nEarth Care Resources\n\nDownloadable resources for holding your own Earth caring sangha meeting\nAdditional Earth Care Resources\n\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-6/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Online Event
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251021T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251021T210000
DTSTAMP:20260524T211500
CREATED:20250708T133323Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250708T133323Z
UID:69795-1761073200-1761080400@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Living Mindfully - 6 Week Course
DESCRIPTION:About this event\nIn this 6-week course we explore together how to bring the Five Mindfulness Trainings (5MTs) more fully into our lives\, using them as practical guidance and spiritual friends on our intended path of living mindfully. \nThere will be one weekly 2-hour session over the course of 6 weeks. \nThis is the third course in the series\, following on from The Art of Zen and Looking Deeply. \nWe offer a concentrated examination of the 5MTs in a supportive group atmosphere of people practising together. Each week is an opportunity to explore one MT and see what challenges it presents. What parts are difficult/easy to follow now? They are an ethical way of checking in to how closely we are following what we value in life\, our intentions\, and making conscious decisions instead of acting habitually\, without awareness. \nYou may enjoy this short video the short video below from Sister True Dedication explaining the importance of the 5MTs within the Plum Village tradition. Note however – the trainings are not only for young people! \n\nWhat to expect\nIn each session we will: \n\nmeditate together\nreflect on one training in each session\, through the Course Leaders’ sharing and a relevant video\npersonal reflection time and dharma sharing with the same group throughout the course.\nfollow specific home practice related to each training.\n\nYou will be provided with a handout summarising each session and recordings of the guided meditations used on this course. \nWe recommend the book The Mindfulness Survival Kit as a companion to the course. \nFor those who wish to receive the transmission of the 5MTs\, ceremonies for this are held from time to time at some of our retreats. Please see the retreats page on our website for the latest information as to at which retreats this might be possible. \nPlease note\, the course and taking the trainings are separate items and not conditional. You are not necessarily expected to receive the 5MTs after the course\, nor do you have to have done the course in order to receive them. This is an optional extra. \nThemes for the Sessions\n1. An Introduction to Living Mindfully\n2. Reverence for Life\n3. True Happiness\n4. True Love\n5. Deep Listening and Loving Speech\n6. Nourishment and Healing \n7. Optional session explaining the content of the five mindfulness trainings ceremony \nCourse Leaders\nI found the beautiful\, thoughtful\, generosity of the Course Leaders (Vari and Lauri)\, their humour\, candour and compassion most helpful. \nThe Course Leaders were very generous and open in their sharing of how the topic had helped them and this is appreciated. I really feel I benefited from having regular time with the Dharma teachers each week\, I am sorry it ended but so grateful for the opportunity. \nThe way you work together is very natural and professional. \nEach course is led by two experienced practitioners in the Plum Village Tradition. \nFor more information on our course leaders\, please visit our website. \nPricing\nWe offer a range of pricing options from £30 – £200 with the intention that the course is available to all. We ask that you pay whatever you can afford\, to enable these courses to continue. \nPlum Village UK is a not for profit charity based in the UK\, affiliated to Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village monastery in France\, and dedicated to sharing the practice of mindfulness and ethical living in the Plum Village Zen tradition. \nFor more courses like this please visit our website: sandpit.plumvillage.uk/learn-mindfulness \nWe recommend that everyone signing up for this course becomes a member of the Community of Interbeing – please see our website at Join Us \nFrequently asked questions\nWhat is your cancellation policy?\n \nIf you cancel your booking at least 14 days before the start of the course we will refund your course fee. After this time\, no refunds will be possible. \nWhat if I miss a class?\nIt is ideal if you can make all the classes as this way you will gain a sound foundation in mindfulness practice. If you have to miss a class and know ahead of time\, do let your course leader know. \nWhat further information will I receive?\nYou will receive Joining Information in a confirmation email once you have purchased your ticket. This will confirm the information on the class timings\, and how to access the online course. You will receive a further email directly from the Course Facilitator in the week before the course starts. \nCan I join from a different timezone?\nThis is a UK-based event\, but you are free to join from anywhere. If you are joining us from outside the UK\, you may wish to use a timezone converter such as worldtimebuddy. \nThe Community of Interbeing UK\nCharity Number 1096680\nPlum Village UK \n\nPARTICIPANT AGREEMENT \nPlease read the terms and conditions carefully. It is important that you understand and agree to these fully.
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/living-mindfully-6-week-course/
CATEGORIES:Course
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CREATED:20250808T174153Z
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UID:69802-1761073200-1761080400@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-11/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Course
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UID:66652-1761242400-1761577200@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Coming Home To Our Body - Dharma Training Retreat
DESCRIPTION:As of 17 September\, residential places are nearly full. Zoom places are still available. \n\nA retreat for members of the Community of Interbeing. You can join the COI here \nLed by UK Dharma Teachers Jane Coatesworth and Lesley Collington\, and Aspirant Dharma Teachers Lindsay Lumsden and Harry Bradshaw . It will also be available on Zoom. \nWe will explore ways in which our own body can be our teacher\, and how\, by caring for our body\, coming home to our body\, we can embody the practice of mindfulness. \nWe will take a fresh look at how we breathe\, walk and sit\, and enjoy practices such as Touching The Earth\, deep relaxation\, eating\, movement and stillness\, to deepen our capacity to be grounded\, solid\, and present\, and be in touch with the wisdom that is within our body. \nWe will be encouraged and supported to pace ourselves according to our own individual physical capacity. Please join us for five days of collective relaxation\, rest\, workshops\, Dharma talks and meditation. \nMain image Sidcot School grounds \n\n\n\n\nTo recognise your body is a very important practice\, because many of us in our daily lives forget that we have a body. The practice of going back to our body reminds us that each of us has a body that is our home. If you can get in touch with your body\, then you can get in touch with life.  \nBreathing in I am aware of my body. Breathing out I know my body is there. \n— Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh \nImage Plum Village France \n\n\n\nPractical Information\nSchedule\nThu 23 Oct 16:30 – Arrivals\nThu 23 Oct 18:00 – Start\nMon 27 Oct 15.00 – End of retreat \nAbout This Event\nThe retreat is suitable for those with an established understanding of mindfulness and a regular meditation practice. \nIt will include: \n\nOpportunities to practise guided and silent sitting meditations\, walking meditation\, mindful eating and noble silence\nOpportunities to learn from others through dharma sharing and exploration\nDharma teaching from UK Dharma Teachers\nThe opportunity to receive a transmission of The Five Mindfulness Trainings\n\nResidential Retreat\nThe residential retreat will run from 6:00pm on Thursday; please arrive from 4:30pm. It will finish by 3:00pm on Monday. Please organise your plans to allow you to be present for the whole retreat. \nDetails of the timetable for the retreat will be available one week before it starts. \nParticipants of this residential event must comply with any Covid-19 precautions (see below). \nAttending on Zoom\nThere is the option of attending online via Zoom for £125. \nThose attending on Zoom will be able to join meditation sessions\, Dharma talks\, dharma sharing and other activities. You can fully participate in the programme; it can be a wonderful opportunity. \nStart time will be at approximately 6pm on Thursday 23 October – we will inform all ticket holders of the exact timing at least a week beforehand. \nWe invite you to create a retreat atmosphere at home – planned meals\, a quiet corner for meditation\, some time away from being online. \nWe are aware that some retreatants will have family and/or other caring commitments around them and we fully support your need to take care of responsibilities. We suggest sharing a copy of the programme with your household so that they can support you for the sittings\, the talks and the dharma sharing. \nOrganisers\nThe retreat is being organised by the Community of Interbeing. We are a growing network of people in the UK who practise mindfulness and aspire to develop peace and happiness in ourselves and in the world by living according to the teachings on global ethics of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh (“Thay”). \nHis teachings\, which can be followed by people of all ages and any religion or none\, are notable for their emphasis on joy\, engagement in the world\, and integrating the practice of mindfulness into daily life. \nWe are a registered charity which offers a programme of courses\, retreats and events\, and which encourages and supports local groups that meet to practise mindfulness. \nVenue\nSidcot School is a Quaker boarding school and event venue set in the beautiful countryside of North Somerset. It offers a hospitable and peaceful environment in which to practice\, serving delicious vegan food. \nAccommodation\nThe majority of accommodation is dormitory bedrooms with separate shared bathrooms. There are a few single rooms. There is also some accessible ensuite accommodation. Beds are allocated on a needs-responsive basis. \nAccessible rooms. If you would need an accessible room please email dharmatraining@plumvillage.uk and we will email you more information. \nSingle rooms. If you can only attend the retreat if you have a single room\, please give your reasons when booking. Rooms will be allocated first to those who could not attend otherwise. \nRoom sharing. If you have arranged to share with specific other retreatants\, you can give their names when booking. \nDiet\nSidcot will be providing a simple but delicious vegan diet for this retreat. Please confirm any additional special dietary requirements in the booking form. \nDana\nThe fee for the retreat does not include a fee for the teachers who offer a great deal of time\, love and experience in delivering their teaching. There is an opportunity to offer dana (generosity\, giving) in support of the continuation of this work during and after the retreat. \nCost\nTickets for this five day full board residential retreat range from £275-£425 with variations visible by clicking the Book Your Place button. Online retreat tickets can be bought for £125. Any surplus\, after administrative costs\, will be donated to our charity Plum Village UK. \nThe supported places on the residential retreat are intended for people who have been practising for at least 12 months with the Community of Interbeing and who are in receipt of state benefit or who are in financial difficulty. Supported places are offered on an honesty and first come first allocated basis. \nRefunds\nWe can offer a full refund minus the Ticket Tailor fee for cancellations made up to two weeks before the retreat. After that no refund is available other than in exceptional circumstances – please contact the organisers if you feel this applies to you. \nCovid Policy\nIf\, prior to the retreat\, you have symptoms that may indicate any infectious illness\, including Covid\, we ask that you do not attend the retreat. \nShould you have to cancel at the last minute for this reason\, we are unable to refund the cost of your residential place\, but we will endeavour to offer you a Zoom place instead. \nContact Us\nEmail: dharmatraining@plumvillage.uk
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/coming-home-to-our-body-dharma-training-retreat/
LOCATION:Sidcot School\, Oakridge Lane\, Winscombe\, North Somerset\, BS25 1PD\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Retreat
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CREATED:20250926T152923Z
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UID:68255-1761505200-1761510600@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-2-2-2-2-2/
LOCATION:Online
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UID:66084-1761764400-1761771600@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Looking Deeply - 6 Week Follow On Course
DESCRIPTION:Looking Deeply is a follow on course from The Art of Zen (formerly “Be Calm Be Happy”) in which you can extend your practice in the Plum Village Zen tradition. \nWe do this most beneficially as a Sangha\, a group of people coming together to practise and support one another on the journey. \nWe go deeper into Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings\, helping us to become more aware of our territory of body\, feelings\, mind and consciousness. We discover how to take mindfulness further into our daily lives. \n  \n\n\n\n  \nWhat to Expect\nSessions are online via Zoom. In each\, we meditate together\, consider the weekly theme\, and undertake a reflection exercise looking at its relevance to us\, with time for group discussion. \nThere will be recommended meditations from the Plum Village App to use during the week. You can install the Plum Village App here \nYou will get the most from this course if you regularly practise the meditations and reflect on the weekly theme between each session. The Plum Village App will be a valuable resource to support this. \nThemes for the sessions: \n\nArriving Home\nMindfulness of the Body\nMindfulness of Feelings\nMindfulness of the Mind\nImpermanence\nConnectedness\n\nSchedule\nThe course is at the same time every week. You will meet with the same group each time. \nThis is a live\, interactive course\, without any recorded sessions to download. \nEach session lasts two hours. \nUpcoming Dates\nThese can be found on our Looking Deeply TicketTailor page \nWho can attend?\nThis course is only suitable for those with some experience already. If looking for an introduction to Plum Village practices\, Zen or meditation\, we recommend the Be Calm Be Happy course instead. \nOur expectation is that you have either attended a Be Calm Be Happy course or that you have experience of practising in the Plum Village tradition with a Sangha. \nThe course is suitable for those of all faiths and none. Participants come from a wide range of backgrounds. \nTicket Pricing\nIn offering a range of ticket prices we aim to make the course available to all. \nPlease note\, bookings close 12 hours before a course starts. Courses can become fully booked\, so it is advisable to book early if you want to be sure of a place. \nFurther Information \nFurther information can be found on the course TicketTailor page \nFrequently Asked Questions\nWhat if I miss a class? \nIt is ideal if you can make all the classes as this way you will gain a sound foundation in mindfulness practice. If you have to miss a class and know ahead of time\, do let your course leader know. \nWhat further information will I receive? \nYou will receive “Joining Information” in a confirmation email once you have purchased your ticket. This will confirm the information on the class timings\, and how to access the online course. You will receive a further email directly from the Course Facilitator in the week before the course starts\, inviting you to a short pre-course zoom call. \nWhat is your cancellation policy? \nIf you cancel your booking at least 14 days before the start of the course we will refund your course fee. We are unable to offer refunds after that time. \nIf you have any questions please contact us via mindfulness-courses@plumvillage.uk
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/looking-deeply-6-week-follow-on-course-4/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Course
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CREATED:20250605T183354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250605T183354Z
UID:69786-1761764400-1761771600@sandpit.plumvillage.uk
SUMMARY:Looking Deeply - 6 Week Follow On Course
DESCRIPTION:Looking Deeply is a follow on course from The Art of Zen (formerly “Be Calm Be Happy”) in which you can extend your practice in the Plum Village Zen tradition. \nWe do this most beneficially as a Sangha\, a group of people coming together to practise and support one another on the journey. \nWe go deeper into Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings\, helping us to become more aware of our territory of body\, feelings\, mind and consciousness. We discover how to take mindfulness further into our daily lives. \n  \n\n\n\n  \nWhat to Expect\nSessions are online via Zoom. In each\, we meditate together\, consider the weekly theme\, and undertake a reflection exercise looking at its relevance to us\, with time for group discussion. \nThere will be recommended meditations from the Plum Village App to use during the week. You can install the Plum Village App here \nYou will get the most from this course if you regularly practise the meditations and reflect on the weekly theme between each session. The Plum Village App will be a valuable resource to support this. \nThemes for the sessions: \n\nArriving Home\nMindfulness of the Body\nMindfulness of Feelings\nMindfulness of the Mind\nImpermanence\nConnectedness\n\nSchedule\nThe course is at the same time every week. You will meet with the same group each time. \nThis is a live\, interactive course\, without any recorded sessions to download. \nEach session lasts two hours. \nUpcoming Dates\nThese can be found on our Looking Deeply TicketTailor page \nWho can attend?\nThis course is only suitable for those with some experience already. If looking for an introduction to Plum Village practices\, Zen or meditation\, we recommend the Be Calm Be Happy course instead. \nOur expectation is that you have either attended a Be Calm Be Happy course or that you have experience of practising in the Plum Village tradition with a Sangha. \nThe course is suitable for those of all faiths and none. Participants come from a wide range of backgrounds. \nTicket Pricing\nIn offering a range of ticket prices we aim to make the course available to all. \nPlease note\, bookings close 12 hours before a course starts. Courses can become fully booked\, so it is advisable to book early if you want to be sure of a place. \nFurther Information \nFurther information can be found on the course TicketTailor page \nFrequently Asked Questions\nWhat if I miss a class? \nIt is ideal if you can make all the classes as this way you will gain a sound foundation in mindfulness practice. If you have to miss a class and know ahead of time\, do let your course leader know. \nWhat further information will I receive? \nYou will receive “Joining Information” in a confirmation email once you have purchased your ticket. This will confirm the information on the class timings\, and how to access the online course. You will receive a further email directly from the Course Facilitator in the week before the course starts\, inviting you to a short pre-course zoom call. \nWhat is your cancellation policy? \nIf you cancel your booking at least 14 days before the start of the course we will refund your course fee. We are unable to offer refunds after that time. \nIf you have any questions please contact us via mindfulness-courses@plumvillage.uk
URL:https://sandpit.plumvillage.uk/event/looking-deeply-6-week-follow-on-course-4-2/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Course
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