The Inner Priceless Jewel of a Pure Good Heart
Good Friday 3 April – Monday 6 April 2026
We look forward to welcoming you to our 2026 Easter retreat, to be led by Tim McKibben.
Tim studied Buddhist philosophy and meditation with the Society’s founder and spiritual guide, Venerable Geshe Acharya Thubten Loden, for 25 years, and is a director of the Society.
Our lives can be like water rushing down a steep mountain, never at rest, never at peace. So, how can we find some balance and lasting joy in this chaotic world? We need to stop and take some time to look inside.
The Buddha explained that no matter what we have done, the fundamental nature of mind is completely pure. Through realising this purity, we naturally gain the happiness and joy we have long sought. The quickest way to realise this purity within is to develop the extraordinary mind of enlightenment or Bodhicitta.
This retreat will focus on the Buddha’s extraordinary methods to develop mental clarity, stability, heart-felt love and the peerless mind of enlightenment, Bodhicitta. Cultivated over time, these qualities will become an inexhaustible wellspring of joy to help you navigate a world in turmoil.
In our frantic lives the most beautiful parts of ourselves can be smothered. However with Bodhicitta they flourish: we will gain the serenity of a perfectly still lake along with the warm sunshine of kindness towards all.
The instruction in this retreat is based on Venerable Geshe Acharya Thubten Loden’s authoritative text – Path to Enlightenment in Tibetan Buddhism. The central focus of Geshe Loden’s teachings was Bodhicitta, with his extensive explanation in the text supported by decades of instruction.
What to expect
There’ll be 6 one hour sessions each full day (three on the final day). In these sessions there will be:
- step by step instruction on the methods to develop the pure good heart of Bodhichitta
- explanation of the essential foundations of this mind
- two guided meditations per session to deepen our understanding and stability.
There will also be plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful ten acre rose garden between sessions.
Options for attending
For the most immersive experience, it is best to live in, as it gives a complete break from day-to-day activities. However, joining daily is also possible for those with family, pets or other needs. You can also attend online.
Accommodation is limited and will be available on a first come, first served basis.
The retreat is fully catered and there is ample opportunity during the session breaks to stroll and enjoy the peace of the centre’s beautiful gardens.
Register for the retreat
There are a number of ways you can attend the retreat. You can live-in, attend but not live-in, or attend on-line. For all options, you will need to register below.