The Still Point of the Turning World: Finding Rest Amidst Suffering

How can Meister Eckhart help us in life’s ‘Why Me?’ moments? We will explore the principles of Eckhart’s theological and philosophical outlook in daily lectures and group discussions, personal reflection and journaling. 

Meister Eckhart forms the foundation of Ursula Fleming’s pioneering work in pain relief based on a doctrine of acceptance and self-grounding. Through focus on breath and letting-go it enabled even those experiencing insupportable pain to reduce their suffering. The Fleming Method has much in common with restorative practices such as Yin Yoga and we will work through simple floor-based exercises suitable for all bodies and levels of experience (with chair-based variations for those unable to lie) in daily guided sessions.

Above all, we will seek to find stillness – to hold space at ‘the centre of the tornado’ – a place of peace amongst the world’s turmoil by immersing ourselves in the daily rhythm of meditation.

As we learn to let go of each moment and accept each new moment in all its objective reality, we will find ourselves able to change our reaction to seemingly intractable circumstances, and surrender into the (literal and metaphorical) ground.

Rebecca Stephens

This event takes place at Bonnevaux and offers an opportunity to discover the rich cultural and historical French and European heritage of the 12th-century Abbaye de Bonnevaux, as well as to explore the varied and natural beauty of the land which we cultivate as a model of ecological responsibility.

This retreat is both for the beginning and ongoing meditators. There will be four periods of meditation a day to accommodate your level of practice. Mornings will be in silence through breakfast and lunch, with the afternoon opening to times of rest and solitude and a convivial dinner where you can get to know your neighbour.

More information can be found here.