Retreats

Set aside all involvements and let the myriad things rest.
Zazen is not thinking of good, not thinking of bad.
It is not conscious endeavour. It is not introspection.
Do not desire to become a Buddha; let sitting or lying down drop away.
Be mindful of the passing of time and
engage yourself in zazen as though
you are saving your head from fire. 

Zen Master Dogen (1200-1253)

 

There are usually at least four annual retreats known as Sesshins. Retreats are usually held at St Cassian’s Centre, Hungerford, The Carmelite Retreat Centre near Oxford or at The Oxford Zen Centre Zendo, 12 Mortimer Drive, Oxford.

Summer Sesshin 2024

Sesshins offer people a chance to deepen their practice in intensive sitting which includes interviews with the teacher in Dokusan, a yoga and work period, meal times and free time. This long sitting together creates a dynamic spirituality and sitting power and although it is by no means easy, Zen practitioners welcome Sesshins with appreciation and a deep sense of blessing. Email Sandy Chubb for more information about UK retreats.

 
 
Dates of retreats in 2027
 
WINTER SESSHIN: Tuesday 12th – Sunday 17th January at St Mary’s Convent, Denchworth Rd, Wantage, OX12 9AU.
 
SPRING ORIENTATION: Monday 15th – Friday 19th February at St Cassian’s Centre, Kintbury, Berkshire, RG17 9SR.
 
SUMMER SESSHIN: Tuesday 27th July – Sunday 1st August at St Mary’s Convent, Denchworth Rd, Wantage, OX12 9AU.
 
AUTUMN SESSHIN: TBC
 
The above retreats are led by Sandy Chubb.
 
 

Details of St Mary’s Convent can be found here.

Details of St Cassian’s Centre can be found here.

Details of The Carmelite Priory can be found here.

 

An Orientation Talk at St Cassian’s Centre

Final Breakfast: Autumn Sesshin 2025