The story so far....
After 9 years' preparation it is now possible to share the outcomes of a transformational personal journey in a unique 2/3-day residential Mind Awareness Retreat. After considerable research, development and 2 years of trialling, the Retreats are now actively running up to three times a year.
In this frantic world of infinite opportunities, choices and challenges, we can get overwhelmed and anxious to the point of losing a balanced sense of purpose and 'being'. We may be living a relentless life on 'autopilot', unable to fully take control and manage our feelings, thoughts and emotions.
Time, then, to step off the 'roundabout of life' for 2 or 3 days to refresh, learn and re-focus at a Mind Awareness Retreat.
What is a Mind Awareness Retreat?
In a peaceful and comfortable rural setting with all modern facilities, a small group of no more than 5 people work with a mentor for 2 or 3 days.
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The Retreat follows a flexible and responsive programme of gentle, reflective self-awareness activities, skilfully facilitated discussions and taught sessions of mindful meditation and relaxation. There is free time for rest, exercise (gentle local walks, use of a gym with a sauna, a stretch Yoga session or more strenuous pursuits) or just curling up with a good book! An optional guided mind-body massage is included, tailored to your physical and emotional needs.
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The Retreat could take one of three forms dependent on interest and demand; one for men (Mind Awareness 1 - in response to the magnitude of men's mental health and well-being issues in the U.K.), one for mixed groups (Mind Awareness 2) and one for re-establishing psychological and emotional balance post-Covid 19 pandemic (Mind Awareness 3 - Recharge!).
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All accommodation, food, drinks, teaching, mentorship and extensive support materials are included (except one evening meal at a local inn).
Mike Jeffries - Retreat creator and mentor
For over 45 years, Mike has provided education and training in the UK and internationally. He has been a teacher, held senior leadership roles in schools (including Headships), a teacher-trainer, advisor and, latterly, an international educational consultant specialising in metacognition (thinking about thinking) and school improvement. Mike then undertook a 6-year 'inner journey' of self-awareness and development which included group psychotherapy, human relations training (including counselling training), mindfulness and meditation study (including a silent retreat). Additionally, he has studied and researched with international experts and has achieved a level of personal awareness and enlightenment which he now shares through Mind Awareness Retreats.
His first well-being book, 'Why You Need to Pause.....Now!' is now in its second, extended edition.
Feedback
Such a profound and positive learning experience. So deeply enriching.
DJ
A very powerful range of Retreat activities. I was motivated, enriched and deeply fulfilled by the experience.
JHG
"We had a wonderful Retreat experience! The information and how it was presented was amazing. With obvious passion for the mindfulness process, Mike made it easy and comfortable to share our emotions." MM
Specimen Mind Awareness 2 Retreat Programme
(Condensed version)
Day 1/2
Arrival, welcome, familiarisation and settling in. Personal introductions; introduction to the Retreat (purpose, principles, activities and programme).
Expectations. 'Ikigai ', ambitions, goals and wider life purposes. Personal motivation for growth.
Mindfulness meditation training 1. Conscious awareness/being in the present; basic principles of mindfulness.
Day 1/2 continued
Who am I? Relaxation session A. Mindful meditation training 2.
Coping with life challenges. Finding and anchoring to an inner life force. 'Doing' or 'Being'? Sharing successful coping strategies.
Exercise (e.g. walk, gym with sauna, stretch Yoga etc.), rest time or optional Finnish or mind-body massage. Mindful meditation training 3. History and applications of mindfulness. Meditation styles and enhancements.
Review of Day 1/2 learning.
Evening dinner at local inn. Return for informal social time.
Day 2/3
Mindful meditation training 4. Growing and deepening relationships. Body awareness, image and maintenance. A self-compassion meditation. Developing awareness of sensuality and sexuality. Further exercise and rest time. Mindful meditation training 5. Life changes and how to make them. Taking ownership for developing awareness and personal growth.
Identifying benefits of meditation practice and a more mindful approach to life.
Review of Day 2/3 learning.
Reflection, personal goal-setting and action-planning .
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Price Plan
Mind Awareness Retreats 1, 2 and 3
2-day Retreat (from 11.a.m. on Day 2 to 5.00p.m. on Day 3).
I night luxury accommodation, all food and drinks (except one meal at a local inn), all teaching, mentoring, facilitation
and extensive support material.
£225
3-day Retreat (from 5.00p.m. on Day 1 to 5.00p.m. on Day 3)
2 nights luxury accommodation, all food and drinks (except one meal at a local inn), all teaching, mentoring, facilitation and extensive support material
£285
For contact/ Retreat dates/ location.
Mind Awareness Retreats
07973 622441
