The retreat will combine Buddhist teachings, meditation, personal reflection, discussion and Q&A, with opportunities to explore both the contemplative and practical aspects of preparing for death.

We will explore:

• Buddhist perspectives on death, dying and karma

• The Five Powers and how they can support us throughout life and at the time of death

• Meditation and reflection on death and impermanence

• Practical steps we can take to prepare for our own death

• What it might mean to live and die with fewer regrets

There will be space to reflect on your own relationship with death and consider how these teachings and practices can be brought into everyday life, within a supportive environment where this sometimes difficult subject can be explored openly.

This retreat is for anyone who would like to explore death and dying in a thoughtful and practical way through Buddhist teachings and practice.

It may be particularly valuable if you want to feel more prepared for your own death, are supporting someone who is dying, or are interested in how contemplating death can influence the choices we make and the way we live.

You do not need to be Buddhist or have any previous experience of meditation or retreat. Those with an established Buddhist practice are equally welcome.

Why Attend?

This retreat offers an opportunity to:

• Develop a greater understanding of death and dying from a Buddhist perspective

• Explore your own thoughts and feelings about death

• Feel more practically and emotionally prepared for your own death

• Learn practices that can support peaceful dying and a more peaceful death

• Discover how an awareness of death can bring greater clarity and appreciation to life

To help create the best conditions for meditation practice, this retreat will be held within a supportive framework:

• Silence – Silence will be observed outside of group sessions during some periods of the day to encourage calm and inward focus.

• Technology-free space – You will be encouraged to switch off phones, laptops and other devices for the duration of the retreat, except for reading texts and other dharma related material.

• Respecting the schedule – Participants are asked to attend all sessions on time, as consistency supports both personal practice and the group environment.

• Mindful living – Meals and daily activities will be approached with awareness, becoming part of the retreat practice itself.

These boundaries are not restrictions but supports — creating a safe, focused space in which the mind can settle and deepen.

Our generosity model means we do not charge for any teachings, accommodation or food. We are therefore 100% dependant on donations to help us cover our £90,000 a year running costs.

You are therefore invited to give what you can as a thank you for the organisation and hosting of the retreat, including the food and accommodation provided if you stayed onsite.

You may also like to make a regular contribution to the centre by becoming a Branch of Joy. This kind of support gifts us a steady and ongoing income, which in turn provides the confidence and means for us to continue to flourish for many years to come.

Everything given will ensure Land of Joy continues to be offered as a precious place for retreat.