The Buddha offers the earliest and fullest source of inspiration for following the Middle Way. In the story of his early life moving beyond the limitations of both the Palace and the Forest, in his many metaphors and parables, and in his practical teachings, the Buddha depicted in the early Buddhist scriptures can provide a powerful symbolic model. This retreat will take many inspirations for a practical path from Buddhism without expecting sole commitment to the Buddhist tradition. Drawing on his book ‘The Buddha’s Middle Way’ (Equinox, 2019), Robert M. Ellis will offer talks and lead discussion on the Buddha as a source of inspiration for the universal Middle Way, and as a way into the interpretation of Buddhism. There will also be meditation, arts activities, and free time to make friends and to enjoy the forest garden and wider landscape of Tirylan House as the new summer approaches.

This retreat is suitable for anyone interested in connecting with the Buddha as inspiration, whether or not they apply the term ‘Buddhist’ to themselves. You will need some basic prior experience of meditation, but past experience of Middle Way Society retreats is not necessarily expected. There will not be any organized Buddhist ritual, but anyone who finds that a helpful practice will be welcome to organize their own. A typical day’s programme will start with meditation, have an extended session of talk and discussion in the late morning, another meditation in the late afternoon, and a shared arts or social activity in the evening. There will also be shared meals and free time.