Days follow a simple shape. Mornings start with a group meditation, practical instruction and time for questions. Afternoons are for going deeper, with guidance shaped around what the group is actually running into. Evenings bring another meditation and Q&A, plus space to let the day's insights settle. Between sessions you can do walking meditation outdoors, sit beside the stream that runs through the property, take a countryside walk or read quietly.

What gets covered depends partly on the group, but the teaching spans calm and stillness (settling the mind, deepening concentration, exploring tranquillity and absorption without chasing a particular experience), heart practices (kindness, compassion, friendliness, warmth), and non-duality — practices and wisdom teachings that ask what we actually are and what the nature of consciousness is. Jimmy also brings in stories from yogis, Zen masters and contemplatives and how their discoveries relate to your own practice.

The silence is the thing that makes this different from a busy meditation week. Casual conversation is set aside so you are not spending energy deciding what to say or managing how you come across. Group Q&A and discussion about practice are still there when you want them, and Jimmy is available for individual guidance.

Jimmy has taught more than 2,000 people to meditate. His approach draws on Shinzen Young's system but pulls in self-inquiry, non-duality and other wisdom traditions depending on what the group needs. With five attendees, there is room for that to be genuinely personal.

The setting is a private home, not a commercial retreat centre, in secluded countryside near Malpas. The grounds have mature trees, wildflowers and open landscape, and the stream can be heard throughout. Away from town lights, the night sky is worth staying up for. There is a dedicated meditation and yoga studio equipped with zafu cushions, meditation chairs, yoga mats and blankets. Luna, a Samoyed, lives there too — she stays out of sessions but welcomes attention.

The silent part formally ends on Sunday evening. Guests are invited to stay until Monday afternoon for optional integration time: a sound bath, dancing, dyads, more walks and a chance to talk to the others if you want to.

What's included

- Accommodation for the retreat, in a private room or the shared twin - Home-cooked vegetarian meals - Tea, herbal tea and wholesome snacks - Three group meditation sessions each day - Theory teachings - Group Q&A sessions - Opportunities for individual guidance with Jimmy - Optional integration day on the Monday, including sound bath, dancing and dyads

What's not included

- Travel to and from the retreat - Travel insurance - Personal expenses - Anything not listed as included

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