The course has the sole purpose of creating the conditions for real self-knowledge in the light of the unity of being.
To this end our approach is experiential rather than academic, and aims to establish us in a vision and taste that can inform the rest of our lives.
The raw material of the course and its subject matter is us. The premise of unity – that all being is One – is the starting point and constant reference, and what will inform us in fact is our own inner reality. The design of the course and its content is intended solely to stimulate and nourish this process.
The course is intentionally group-based and this bring many advantages, because in reality we are mirrors to each other and no-one travels this path completely on their own. Meanwhile this intensive and demanding situation can take us beyond our ordinary limits and comfort zone.
The course is founded on four elements: study, meditation, work and devotional practices.
Daily Study and conversation sessions draw on the works of masters from different wisdom traditions, primarily Ibn ‘Arabi, Rumi, and Lao Tsu. Study material is also taken from more contemporary sources – for example Einstein and Adyashanti.
Regular meditation and mindfulness-based practices develop a contemplative condition in us and help us cultivate awareness and presence, which are indispensable for real learning.
Work is in the garden, estate, house and kitchen, the proving grounds of the everyday. Performed with awareness and a sense of service, work gives time, space and context for the integration of what is discovered in study and meditation.
Devotional practices are essential for grounding, centring and opening the heart. These includes ‘zikr’, or 'rememoration', a devotional practice using sound and movement.
Commitment:
Please note that this course is full-time and require wholehearted commitment.
A detailed timetable is available on request.
Meals:
The Chisholme kitchen provides food in keeping with the spiritual and material aims of its education. Chisholme is not vegetarian but meat is prepared with deep respect for its benefit and origin. All our meat (lamb and beef, no pork) and dairy is either locally sourced, organic, free range or all three. Meanwhile vegetarian (not necessarily vegan) dishes comprise the majority of the food served and are always available as an option. We are unable to cater for preferences or specialist diets, without a medical reason.
Accommodation is shared, usually in spacious single sex rooms of two or three beds. Single rooms may be requested for exceptional reasons, depending on availability.
Timing
The course is fully residential and starts at supper time (7pm) on Saturday evening and runs until the following Saturday after lunch (about 2pm).
Chisholme House and the beautiful estate provide a supportive environment for a journey of self-discovery in the company of fellow students and the facilitators who will assist you.
A week will seem all too brief, but the measure of it is in our own willingness to dig deep into the mystery of being that is our true self.
Cost
£350
Includes accommodation and all meals.
Please pay a non-refundable deposit of £60 when booking. The balance can be paid once at Chisholme when you arrive.
Please note: We try to ensure that the education offered at Chisholme is accessible to all who have a sincere desire for it. In this spirit, while there are no concessions available for this course, it is possible to pay in instalments over an agreed period. To discuss this option, please contact the secretary@chisholme.org or ring Tel +44 (0)1450 880215
To Book:
Book online by clicking in the box at the top of this page, or email secretary@chisholme.org Tel +44 (0)1450 880215
Practical information about staying at Chisholme, click here.. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
Read more about the unity of existence here
1 October 2024–24 March 2025
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