Personal practice
My practice began with Yoga in the early eighties which then led me meditation initially in the Indian tradition before then connecting to Tibetan Buddhism whilst travelling in Nepal.
Since the late 90’s my practice has become an essential and deeply valued part of my life. I have been fortunate to have been under the guidance of HH 17th Karmapa and Mingyur Rinpoche and between 2008 and 2013 completed Mahamudra Meditation training in India over 6 years under the guidance of Tai Situ Rinpoche.
This has offered me a wonderful and comprehensive training in shamatha and vipassanya practices with a daily commitment of two hours working through a detailed and precise method and supported by Rinpoche.
With this I have also spent extended periods in personal retreat as a way to deepen practice and honour the practice commitment.
These practices have I feel enriched, complemented and supported my training and teaching of MBSR and MBCT giving me the opportunity to investigate and examine the small details that comprise the core practices and give me sound and richfull bedrock from which to understand and teach from.
Other influences on practice and my life
I also regularly attend retreats with Tsoknyi Rinpoche who I find brings together the traditional Dzogchen teachings with a strong emphasis on the body and reconnection into the heart. His profound wisdom, clarity and humourful approach has been invaluable in supporting my personal journey, in deepening understanding of the nature of mind and integrating practice into my life.
I am also inspired by the writings of Tulku Urgyen, Dilgo Khyentse and Chogyam Trungpa as well as the teachers from the Insight tradition such as Christina Feldman, Jack Kornfield and Joseph Goldstein.
The writings and poetry of Rainer Rilke have also become an inspiration and together with Dharma teachings and practice offer a support and kindly reminder of the transformational quality of being with all experience.
My practice feels much supported by being in nature, walking around the Helford River and along the Cornish coast where I live offering me a deep sense of nourishment and delight.