A time for being in the moment

Here are some photos that I promised..........

Springhead was the setting for a Weekend Together for "mindful living practitioners" (my term) from groups from the west country, from Bath, Bristol, Somerset, Wiltshire and Dorset. There we are below, posing for the group photo in front of the lake.

The weather was delightful for so early in the spring, and the most atmospheric time of day for me was early in the morning. I shall never forget doing t'ai chi on the dewy grass with Lesley, while the mist rose from the lake. The very last photo (that is not mine by the way, thanks Stephen) really captures that feeling. We finished the short form precisely as the bell was rung, or more properly - invited, for breakfast.

We ate our meals in the long building that was formerly the mill. The first ten minutes or so of the meal we ate in mindful silence, remembering all the hard work and effort that had gone into growing and cooking the food - try it sometime, it really makes a difference.

Some very mindful chopping going on, watched over by Paul who organised all the food! We took it in turns to volunteer to help prepare the meals or wash up. The food was wonderful, and the creamy breakfast porridge lingers in my memory. And Earl Grey tea too, whenever one wanted.

There were some formal meditation sessions in the old mill, in a light and airy room with the mill race running right beneath. But the weekend was very relaxed and a time to enjoy the lovingly tended garden around the long lake above the mill. There were delights around every corner and some very creative planting - turkestiana tulips with fritillaries, and a creamy magnolia tree whose petals fell as we wandered beneath.

A pair of swans were nesting on a small island in the middle of the lake - you can see them in Stephen's 5.30 am photo. Do click on it to enjoy the full effect! They seemed so serene - unlike the mallards and coots who were more rowdy. Just like us really - some more boisterous and energetic than others who seem more tranquil over the weekend.

The setting was unbelievable, the organisation was brilliant (Ive already mentioned the food!) And the company - well, it was just so refreshing to be with people among whom you could be yourself. And some people who were truly inspiring.

Just wander gently through the images. Breathe gently and listen to the birdsong, and be refreshed.