This event is now full.
Facing Loss, Healing Grief (March)
Grief is a natural response to the ongoing loss we experience when someone close to us dies. In this retreat, using meditation and reflections, we will explore ways to be with our sorrow and to understand change and impermanence.
The shock of separation and bereavement is often accompanied by feelings of intense sadness, distress or anger. Although we will never forget, we can heal the pain of grief.
This workshop is not recommended for those whose loss is less than three months old or for anyone who might be pregnant.
To ensure the best support for all who attend ‘Facing Loss, Healing Grief’ the number of places are restricted, so please book early. To register for this event, please see the Expression of Interest option on the right hand side of this page.
Content
- Exploring our relationship with our grief
- Identifying things that make it harder to mourn our loss
- Healing Unfinished Business
- Small Group Sharing
- Larger Group Support
- Guided meditations
- Creative expression including writing
- Time for rest, gentle movement and enjoying nature
Location
The retreat will be held in the Spiritual Care Centre meditation room, a bright space with beautiful views.
You can sit on a chair or on a zafu cushion on the floor, wherever you are comfortable. None of the sessions involve difficult postures or complicated techniques.
Fee
Fee €310
Concession €248
Dzogchen Beara has a policy of not turning anyone away for financial reasons. Please contact scc-admin@dzogchenbeara.org to discuss flexible payment options or to request assistance from our spiritual care bursary fund.
Meals
Delicious two course vegetarian lunches, with soup and bread in the evenings. Cooked with love at Dzogchen Beara, using homegrown and organic ingredients whenever possible. Tea and coffee.
Accommodation
Rooms are reserved for participants in the Spiritual Care Centre and our cottages providing a safe and supportive rest place for those attending this workshop. Participants are advised against staying in the hostel for this event. Participants often choose to spend more time in this supportive environment by arriving a few days earlier, or staying a little longer to get the most out of the weekend.
Bernie Jeffery
Bernie Jeffery is a retired accredited member of the Irish Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (2026). Bernie has for over 25 years worked in private practice and with groups through the work of the Cork Social & Education project. Her background is in nursing and midwifery, and she also trained in therapeutic massage. Bernie is a founder member of the first Cork Educate Together National School. For several years she has co-facilitated Rigpa Meditation courses in Cork and is an Educator in the Spiritual Care Education Programme. Bernie has been a main holder of the Facing Loss and Healing Grief weekends for over 15 years.
John Douglas
John Douglas first became interested in Buddhist Meditation in 1990 and moved to West Cork in 1994 to become part of the Dzogchen Beara community. As a Senior Meditation Instructor and Spiritual Care Educator, John is one of Dzogchen Beara’s main facilitators on a range of courses and workshops including Facing Loss and Healing Grief, Deep Listening, Self Compassion and Healing Relationships.
John is a Counsellor & Psychotherapist, accredited with the IACP, working in private practice in Castletownbere and in ARC Cancer Support House in Bantry, as well as being part of the care team supporting guests at the Spiritual Care Centre in Dzogchen Beara.