Robert M Ellis has been developing Middle Way Philosophy as a practical approach for around 25 years now, in a series of books, talks and retreats and in conjunction with the Middle Way Society. It owes much to Buddhist practice, whence the term ‘Middle Way’ comes, but does not necessarily involve commitment to the Buddhist tradition and draws on a wide range of other sources: including psychology, philosophy, critical thinking, neuroscience, the arts, general systems theory and embodied meaning. It can be applied in the context of a range of traditions and contexts, as it focuses on making the most of experience, focusing on judgement and avoiding absolute assumptions. It incorporates a variety of practices including meditation, the arts, and critical discussion.

This retreat aims to provide an introduction to the practical use of the Middle Way approach, not pre-supposing and prior experience. It will be based around the five interdependent Principles of the Middle Way: scepticism, provisionality, incrementality, agnosticism and integration. There will be a series of talks and discussions intended to help retreatants relate these principles to their own experience. These will be grounded in the wider retreat environment with meditation, arts, friendship, shared meals, and opportunities to walk or garden outside.