Regular Events
Fridays – Sutta Discussion Group
with Ven Canda, 18:45 – 20:00pm UK time
Next sessions:
June 5th, 26th
July 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th
Whether you are a beginner to sutta study, or well acquainted with the Buddha's teachings found in the Early Buddhist texts (EBT's), this ongoing sutta discussion group provides a unique opportunity to explore the profound and timeless wisdom of the Buddha, together with Ven Canda (and occasional monastic guests).
Whilst Ven Canda will offer reflections on some of her favourite teachings, informed by her decades of sutta study and meditation practice, the main aim is to provide you an opportunity to discuss ways in which the teachings might apply to your contemporary lives, in order to inspire, guide and deepen your own practice.
In the Buddha's day, bhikkhunis, bhikkhus, lay men and lay women became enlightened after hearing just one sutta! So, you are welcome to drop in as you choose. Regular attendance will give you a deeper appreciation of the Buddha's teachings as a whole, that may transform your lives for the better!
CLICK HERE TO JOIN
Meeting Password: 909557
Saturdays – Guided Metta Meditation
with Ven Canda, 9:00 – 10:00am UK time
Next sessions:
June 6th, 27th
July 4th, 18th, 25th
Start the weekend resourced by cultivating a soft and spacious heart, through the powerful practice of loving kindness. Regular practice helps undermine the sticky hindrance of ill will that can manifest in numerous ways - such as fault-finding, fear, depression or lethargy - and that zaps our vitality and joy. As we grow in loving kindness, our relationships with ourselves and others improve, our happiness increases and deep meditation becomes easier. What's not to love?!
CLICK HERE TO JOIN
Meeting password: 01140!$M
Tuesday & Thursday Silent Sitting Group
Every Tuesday and Thursday 19:15 - 20:00 UK Time via Zoom - peer hosted by Matthias.
"Since December 2021 we have had a regular group of about 20 people coming to meditate in silence together, and people have said that they find it very supportive in developing and strengthening a regular practice. It never fails to amaze me how strongly connected we can be from afar, without even uttering a word - especially when we unite in wholesome (non) action!" ~ Ven Canda
Please be aware that this is NOT a guided meditation session but is intended for those who are looking for a virtual community with whom to sit silently in meditation together.
Please join early so Matthias can let you in before he starts meditating!
CLICK HERE TO JOIN
Meeting Password: 904346
Pali Chanting & Blessings Group ~ Karaniya Metta Sutta
Wednesdays 17:30 - 18:00 UK Time
~ No session on 17th June ~
Join us to chant or just listen to the Karaniya Metta Sutta in Pali, the closest language to that which the Buddha spoke. Every week we offer an opportunity for you to dedicate loving kindness, compassion, and blessings to those who may be in need of support – be they family, friends or those suffering through war and famine. Ven Canda will usually be available and on the rare occasion she is not, a senior Anukampa volunteer will lead the chanting.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN
Meeting password: 364195%L
Special Events
Ajahn Brahm’s “The Bliss of Enlightenment” UK Tour
10th – 25th Nov 2026
This year, Ajahn Brahm returns to the UK to share his insightful teachings and compassionate wisdom. Joined by Ajahn Canda, Ajahn Brahm will be offering a Dhamma talk Oxford, an eight-day residential retreat at the tranquil Gaunts House in Dorset, as well as a weekend non-residential retreat at the Mercure Hotel, Oxford.
Ajahn Brahm’s unique blend of humour, compassion and profound understanding of Buddhist principles is certain to enrich your practice, whether you are an experienced meditator or a newcomer. His teachings cover everyday life themes, providing valuable insights and practical guidance.
Ajahn Brahm is dedicated to visiting England yearly to support Anukampa Bhikkhuni Project’s charitable aims of spreading the Dhamma and developing Anukampa Grove, our new bhikkhuni residence. Anukampa Grove offers women the opportunity to practice and aspire towards full bhikkhuni ordination for the first time in UK history, and provides a nurturing environment for our warm-hearted and diverse community to flourish.
All proceeds from the tour help cover venue hire and other arrangements. Any excess funds will go towards the significant running costs of Anukampa Grove. There will also be a chance to donate at the end of each event, towards the Sangha's requisites, etc.
We strive to keep costs reasonable, thanks to the loving dedication of volunteers who freely offer their service; however if you need to, please contact us to ask for bursary support.
Be sure to register early so you don't miss out on this rare opportunity - We are excited to to be able to hold a residential retreat of such a length for the first time since 2018, and for the first time at this venue.
Event Schedule
- Tuesday 10th: Evening Talk: "How to Live Fearlessly" at Quakers Friends Meeting House, Oxford (18:45-20:45)
- Friday, 13th – Friday, 20th: Eight-Day Residential Retreat: "The Bliss of Enlightenment" at Gaunts House, Wimborne, Dorset
- Sat, 21st – Sun, 22nd: Non-Residential Weekend Retreat: "A Mind Like Still Flowing Water" at Mercure Hawkwell Hotel, Oxford
- Tuesday, 24th: Evening Talk: “Understanding Non-Self” at Thames Buddhist Vihara, Croydon (19:00-21:00)
- Wednesday 25th: Evening Talk: "From Helplessness to Compassion" at Kagyu Samye Dzong, London (18:30-20:30)
Tuesday, 10th Nov 2026, 18:45 – 20:45
Ajahn Brahm:
"How to Live Fearlessly"
Dhamma Talk at Oxford Quakers
The Buddha taught that living fearlessly is achieved by understanding the nature of reality and gradually releasing clinging. Learn how to realise this by cultivating a mind inclined towards peace ~ a truly important quality that can resource and empower you in an increasingly turbulent world. Small moments of peace and inspiration can make all the difference as to how we choose to live our lives. Join Ajahn Brahm to learn how to live with more integrity, resilience and courage.
This evening programme will begin with a short guided meditation, followed by a Dhamma talk from Ajahn Brahm. After the talk there will be an opportunity to ask questions.
Fri 13th - Fri 20th Nov 2026
Ajahn Brahm & Ajahn Canda
Eight-Day Residential Retreat:
"The Bliss of Enlightenment"
at Gaunts House, Wimborne, Dorset.
Immerse yourself in the early Buddhist teachings and experience the Noble Eightfold Path as a perfectly complete, holistic training ~ something to be explored, enjoyed and allowed to unfold in its own time. Rather than striving, the emphasis will be on cultivating the conditions in which insight arises naturally, giving rise to inner joy and ever-deepening bliss.
At the heart of the retreat is the practice of letting go (vossagga) and the gradual refinement of happiness (sukha) described in the Suttas. Grounded on virtue and as this process matures, such wholesome happiness becomes increasingly independent of external conditions ~ stable, trustworthy and conducive to the ultimate happiness of Nibbana, where all craving and suffering ceases.
You will be in safe hands with our deeply compassionate and approachable teachers, who bring over seventy years (!) of combined monastic experience. Through storytelling, humour and wisdom, they create a warm and loving environment that supports deep yet relaxed meditation practice.
Set in the beautiful countryside of rural Dorset, the extensive grounds of Gaunts House allow for plenty of space to meditate, relax and surround yourself with nature and views of the huge lake. This retreat also includes inspiring teachings and guidance from both of our vastly experienced teachers, including teachings from the Early Buddhist Texts, silent and guided meditations, Dhamma talks and Q&A sessions. The schedule will be flexible and you will have use of two main halls, a large sitting room, library, dining room and grounds.
We are excited to be able to hold a retreat of such a length for the first time since 2018 and for the first time at this venue.
Location & Venue
Gaunts House is a large country house "from another era," set in the beautiful Dorset countryside. The quiet environment is very conducive to peaceful meditation practice. If you bring walking boots you can go on lovely walks and explore the forested areas and lake (without getting too muddy!). We will have sole use of the centre, which will allow you to meditate with minimum distraction.
The venue consists of multiple buildings, three of which we will be using. The accommodation and dining room are in the Main House, additional accommodation is in the Stable Block and the meditation hall is in the Barn Theatre. The Barn Theatre is located just outside the main building and it is a short walk from the Stable Block. Click the "DETAILS AND REGISTRATION HERE" button below to view a map and more information so you are confident that you understand the layout.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION!
- Please be aware that Gaunts House has limited accessibility, as most rooms and toilets are on the first, second or third floors. The nearest toilets to our meditation hall (the Barn Theatre) are located in the Main House on the first, second and top floors. This means you need to be fit enough to walk up and down stairs (there is no lift!) several times a day and between meditation sessions to go to the toilet!
- Gaunts House has a "Mobile-Free" policy. You may give your phone to our retreat manager for safe-keeping until the final day of the retreat.
Sat 21st - Sun 22nd Nov 2026, 9:30am - 5:30pm each day
Ajahn Brahm & Ajahn Canda
Non-Residential Weekend Retreat:
"A Mind Like A Still Forest Pool"
at Mercure Oxford Hawkwell House Hotel ~ Oxford.
Ajahn's Chah's simile of the “still forest pool” beautifully captures the essence of a peaceful mind that is fully aware. He described sitting silently in the deep forests of Thailand, so still that wild animals no longer sensed his presence and gradually began to appear ~ first the familiar, then the rare and remarkable.
In a similar way, when the mind is allowed to settle, something profound begins to unfold. Stillness is not only deeply restful and nourishing; it becomes a source of insight. From a place of inner calm, we begin to see more clearly, respond more wisely and discover new ways of meeting life. Rather than withdrawing, we become more resilient, more grounded and better resourced to engage with the world around us.
The weekend includes sitting and walking meditation, Dhamma talks, Sutta discussions, and plenty of humour ~ shared with warmth, depth and joy from our two teachers.
Whether you’re new to meditation or deepening an established practice, you’re invited to step out of the noise and busyness of life, reset the mind and reconnect with a sense of clarity, balance and quiet confidence you can carry into everyday life.
Tuesday, 24th Nov 2026, 18:45 – 20:45
Ajahn Brahm:
"Understanding Non-Self"
Dhamma Talk at Thames Buddhist Vihara, South Croydon
In this talk, learn about the fascinating topic of non-self and how the Buddha discovered that there is no permanent essence in form, feelings, perceptions, will, consciousnesses, or anywhere else for that matter! This is known as anatta (non-self), part of the three characteristics of existence alongside anicca (impermanence) and dukkha (suffering). Ajahn Brahm will guide you through this profound yet freeing topic, a favourite of his, in his trademark light-hearted style, in what promises to be a deeply insightful evening.
No registration needed; attendance is by donation.
Wednesday, 25th November 2026, 18:30 – 20:30
Ajahn Brahm:
"From Helplessness to Compassion"
Dhamma Talk at Kagyu Samye Dzong, Bermondsey, London.
In times of global uncertainty and upheaval, it is easy to feel overwhelmed, powerless, or disheartened. In this talk, Ajahn Brahm explores how practice cultivates wisdom and resilience, leading naturally to kindness and compassion for ourselves and for others.
By reflecting deeply on the Three Characteristics ~ impermanence, suffering and non-self ~ we learn to respond wisely to the challenges within our own reach and also to recognise the limits of our personal capacity without falling into despair. From this understanding arises a balanced and compassionate engagement with the world: taking meaningful action where we can, while wholeheartedly supporting and rejoicing in the efforts of those who are able to help in ways we can't.
Rather than helplessness, the Buddha's teachings offer a way of living grounded in wisdom, compassion and shared humanity ~ empowering each of us to contribute, directly or indirectly, to the wellbeing of others.
22nd – 28th February 2027
6-Day Residential Retreat with Ajahn Canda:
"Seven Steps to Enlightenment: A Deep Dive into the Bojjaṅghās"
Santuario Di Graglia, Biella, Italy
This six-day retreat explores the Seven Factors of Enlightenment (bojjhaṅgā) as a clear and practical framework for understanding and deepening our meditation practice, regardless of the method we practice. The Buddha likens these seven inner qualities to the most valuable treasures in the world: mindfulness, exploration of the Dhamma, energy, joy, tranquility, stillness (samādhi) and equanimity. With no need for willpower or force, they unfold naturally when certain conditions are in place.
Founded on virtue (sīla) and sense restraint, the Enlightenment Factors serve both as a path and a measure of progress. When they are present and developing, they indicate that practice is moving in a skillful direction; when they are weak or absent, they point to areas that need adjustment and care. These factors also work directly against the five hindrances of sensual desire, ill will, dullness, restlessness and doubt, gradually weakening and replacing them. As the hindrances fade, the bojjhaṅgā strengthen and our confidence in the Buddha's path increases.
Each day of the retreat will focus on one or more of these factors ~ what they are, how they arise and how they support the development of the next. There will also be numerous fun and practical tips for troubleshooting obstacles and truly enjoying our meditation! Join us to experience the Enlightenment Factors unfold, leading naturally to liberation.
Tentative Schedule:
06:00 - 07:00 Silent meditation and metta chanting
07:00 - 09:00 Breakfast and rest/work period
09:00 - 09:45 Dhamma Talk
10:00 - 10:45 Guided meditation
10:45 - 11:15 Walking meditation
11:15 - 12:15 Lunch
12:15 - 15:00 Rest and personal practice
15:00 - 15:50 Guided meditation
15:50 - 18:00 Personal practice
18:00 - 19:00 Tea/snacks
19:00 - 20:00 Silent meditation
20:15 - 21:15 Q&A
21:15 onwards, personal practice/rest
1st – 31st May 2027
A Month-Long Silent Retreat led by
Sayadaw U Jagara & Ajahn Canda:
"A Living Lineage: Embodying the 37 Factors of Awakening"
in Barre, Massachusetts, USA
Rooted in a time-honored map of practice preserved in the early Buddhist texts and through our lineage, this retreat explores the 37 Factors of Awakening (Bodhipakkhiya) as a living, experiential path. Rather than a list to be learned, these teachings become something we feel and embody, moment by moment. Through meditation, reflection and shared inquiry, we’ll discover how these qualities naturally unfold in practice, supporting clarity, steadiness and a deepening sense of freedom.
Particular emphasis will be placed on the relational aspects of the path to discern how the Factors of Awakening function less as discrete elements and more as a living ecology of Dhamma. In practicing this way, we both draw from and contribute to a living tradition, allowing wisdom and compassion to take shape in ways that meet the conditions of our lives today.
About Sayadaw U Jagara
Sayadaw U. Jagara, originally named Martin Boisvert, was born in Canada and embarked on his spiritual journey in the mid-1970s under the guidance of Robert H. Hover. In 1979 he received ordination as a monk from the Venerable Mahasi Sayadaw in Burma. For the next 15 years, he resided in Sri Lanka, where he blended the practice of meditation with the study of Buddhist scriptures. He also made intermittent trips to India and Thailand for meditation retreats.
During the 1980s, he assumed the role of a meditation guide, conducting retreats in the tradition of S.N. Goenka across India, North America, Europe, and Asia. In 1995, he began training under the esteemed Venerable Pa Auk Sayadaw, a revered Burmese meditation master known for his commitment to the Visuddhimagga. This text serves as both a practical roadmap to deep states of meditation (jhāna) and a meticulous guide to the direct analytical approaches of vipassanā.
Sayadaw U Jagara began assisting Venerable Pa Auk Sayadaw in teaching the dhamma in the early 2000s and sustained his support up to the early 2010s. In the past decade, he has independently shared his wisdom and experiences across North America, collaborating with various meditation teachers. His teachings focus on life as continuous meditation, guiding students toward liberation through observation, wisdom, and compassion.
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This retreat is organised by Insight Meditation Society, Forest Refuge. If you have queries regarding this particular retreat, please contact IMS Forest Refuge directly.
