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Rob and Julia Campbell / Stocksy There's a viral meme that keeps doing the rounds on my Instagram feed of Cruella de Vil frantic at the wheel as she's tearing down the (albeit animated) road at what we can assume is Disney's equivalent of 150mph. The caption aptly reads: “Me trying to excel in my career, maintain a social life, drink enough water, exercise, text everyone back, stay sane, survive and be happy.” You've probably seen it. Actually, you've probably liked it, shared and screen-grabbed it for WhatsApp (see below for verification). Which is why I'm pretty confident that when I say most of us could benefit from a meditation retreat right now, you're among those who'd more than agree.
If you lost your equilibrium 73 email notifications ago, feel like you're constantly on the brink of throwing your phone/laptop/iPad out the window or just want to assume the fetal position right about now, I'd say you're long overdue for a time-out. So we've rounded up our picks for the best UK meditation retreats-perfect for disconnecting from the noise, letting go of stress, and recalibrating your zen.
#1. Gaia House
Gaia House Where
Devon
Why
If “less noise” is what you're craving, Gaia House is ideal-the Buddhist retreat focuses on silent Insight Meditation. Yep, zero chat. While there'll be talking during your guided meditation sessions or teacher-led discussions, the house and (seriously incredible) grounds generally operate in silence throughout the rest of the day. You can choose to either join a group retreat or-if you're more seasoned in your practice-book a personal retreat where you'll embark on a journey of solitary meditation.
Budget
$$
More
gaiahouse.co.uk
2. Mind, Body, Bowl Retreats
@mind_body_bowl / Instagram Where
London/Somerset
Why
If you haven't got heaps of annual leave to take advantage of, Annie Clarke's Mind, Body, Bowl one-day retreats in London are ideal. Combining relaxing yoga sessions with meditation workshops, you'll get the chance to hit pause and explore your mind without the added stress of taking too much time off. If you've got more time to spare, look out for the long weekend Pause retreat in Somerset.
Budget
$$
More
mindbodybowl.co.uk
3. Dhanakosa Buddhist Retreat Centre
Dhanakosa Buddhist Retreat Centre Where
Lochearnhead
Why
If you've got a yearning for some fresh air with your meditation, this is the place for you. The Dhanakosa Centre runs various retreats throughout the year, combining Buddhist meditation with yoga, tai chi, photography and more, but it's the eight-day Hillwalking and Meditation course that's caught our eye. Along with guided and solo meditation sessions, you'll also embark on several walks across the Scottish Highlands to reconnect with nature and blow away the cobwebs. Dhanakosa operates on a Dana economy, where (after a booking fee) you pay what you can afford for the retreat via a donation-this way the center can remain open to help everyone, regardless of financial circumstances.
Budget
$
More
dhanakosa.com
4. Sharpham Trust
Sharpham Trust Where
Devon
Why
Mindfulness is at the heart of this meditation retreat, and courses range from Mindfulness for Beginners and Breaking Free From Burnout to Walking Retreats. If you're less into the Buddhist tradition of meditation, this more relaxed approach might suit you better. Once you've completed your retreat, it's also worth investigating The Vineyard Kitchen, where you can sample wine and cheese all made on the Sharpham Estate.
Budget
$$$
More
sharphamtrust.org
5. The Scarlet Hotel
@scarlethotel / Instagram Where
Cornwall
Why
If you'd rather meditate without guidance or have specific topics you'd like to cover, The Scarlet in Cornwall is the ideal place to stage your own DIY meditation retreat. Inspired by Ayurveda, the spa offers one-hour guided meditation classes to help you set your intentions during your stay, and then you're free to either find a spot on the hotel's breathtaking slice of coastline and go it alone or book private meditation lessons starting from $90. The hotel spa also offers a one-day package centered around rebalancing your energy, which includes a meditation workshop, a 30-minute massage, a healthy lunch and hot tub time.
Budget
$$$
More
scarlethotel.co.uk
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