**Moving from Pain to Compassion**

The image of a hand reaching out helps us connect those two powerful qualities in life: pain and compassion. Whether it’s physical, emotional or existential pain, compassion for self and other can soften, release and even transform our suffering in connection with others.

Join Amalavajra and Maitripushpa as they explore some Buddhist teachings around how we can turn towards the reality of our daily experience. And possibly turn it around as well!

We will be joined by the wisdom and compassion of the bodhisattva Green Tara with whom Amalavajra has a strong connection.

A retreat is a great opportunity to take a break from our regular routine and create more space
in both our inner and outer lives. Spending time in the countryside, we can connect with
nature and enjoy the positive conditions that arise as we come together as a community,
practising together, sharing meals, sharing talks and sharing walks with others on the retreat.

The programme will include talks, meditation, reflection and discussion as well as some
chanting and ritual. Weather permitting, we will also do some meditations outside, including
periods of walking meditation and standing meditation. There will be plenty of free time to
go for walks or chat over a cup of tea with others on the retreat.

We are delighted to be returning to Othona Retreat Centre in Essex.

A camping option is available. You must bring all of your own camping equipment.

You can travel by train to Southminster from London Liverpool Street then by taxi (about 1 hr 15mins, with change at Wickford). Suggested times are:

dep 15.33 arrives Southminster 16.46

OR

16.22 arrives Southminster 17.36

For those wishing to take either of these trains we can arrange a shared taxi to pick you up from the station. Please get in touch if you’d like to book a place in a taxi. Costs will be shared by retreatants.