Home Retreats Programme Onsite Through the Looking Glass
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Jun
12
Friday 12th June, 19:30 to Sunday 14th June, 13:00
Onsite
€275
€220concession

Through the Looking Glass

Reshaping the Stories We Live By

Blending the wisdom of Buddhist philosophy and inspired by Lewis Caroll’s fictional character Alice, Through the Looking Glass invites us to explore the stories we unconsciously live by. Just as Alice becomes aware of the power of her own perception, we too can discover how our perceptions shape our world, relationships and sense of wellbeing.

With practical tools for modern living and presented in simple, relatable language, this retreat is a chance to explore how shifting our perception can open up new possibilities for connection, clarity, and joy.

Through interactive exercises, reflective discussions, and moments of quiet contemplation (with gentle guidance in basic meditation), you’ll explore how small shifts in perspective can create profound changes in your life.

You’ll leave with fresh insights, practical tools, and perhaps even a little more space to breathe. Whether you’re curious about Buddhist ideas or simply looking for ways to cultivate greater resilience, clarity, and joy, this weekend offers a welcoming and inspiring space for growth. No prior experience with meditation or Buddhism is needed—just an open mind and a willingness to explore!

Location

The retreat will be held in the clifftop shrine room of Centre House, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering spectacular ocean views.

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David Rycroft

David Rycroft Bio

Following a student-centred approach, David brings the teachings to life through a blend of experiential guidance, classical sources, storytelling, and interactive exploration. His style is conversational and responsive, weaving together humour, insight, and the occasional provocation to keep participants engaged. Beneath this lightness lies a deep generosity of spirit, creating an atmosphere in which it becomes possible to both relax and look more closely.
 
Drawing on a wide range of approaches—from careful observation in meditation and reflective inquiry, to rigorous questioning of assumptions, to playful, non-conceptual exercises such as drawing and movement—David creates a learning environment in which each person feels included, supported, and met with genuine care.
 
Committed to fostering peace, emotional wellbeing, and meaningful connection in education, David is co-founder and trustee of UK charity Mind With Heart, envisioning a society that flourishes through both inner wellbeing and compassion in community. Building on this work, he launched Teach Peace in 2023, a secular education initiative of the European Buddhist Union.
 
Since 1994, David has studied and practised within the Rigpa sangha, receiving teachings from many respected masters. Alongside this, he raised a family, taught art in London for a decade, and served as president of Rigpé Yeshé, Rigpa’s programme for children and teenagers. He also completed the traditional three-year retreat at Lerab Ling.
 
Educated at Eton College and the University of Edinburgh, David also holds an MA with distinction in Buddhist Studies from the University of Sunderland. His paintings, which explore the vitality and splendour of the natural world, have been exhibited internationally, including at UNESCO in Paris.