Ever since I can remember, I had a mind full of curiosity and wonder of my environment, the people surrounding me and noted a spiritual aspect to my life. As a young child I would sit quietly on my own in my treehouse watching the crops in the field below bend and sway in the gentle summer breeze for a long time very content. At the time I didn't realise this was mindfulness, my family or friends did not meditate.

Since having an accident over 20 years ago I have chronic pain. I was introduced to mindfulness through my yoga teacher and subsequently the NHS Pain Management Clinic to try and reduce my pain level. I came across Vidlayma Birch’s course book and shortly after attended my first silent retreat at Sharpham House, Devon. From this point, I knew for certain I wanted to be part of a mindfulness community. Having time to be still and silent it was like being back in my childhood treehouse though this time I was surrounded by like-minded people’s energy too. This is when I was introduced to Thay and unsure about entering a Buddhist community.

Years passed and I found myself with a stressful job, family life and struggling to walk with pain. I realised I wanted to put down some roots to gain some stability in my life and remembered my time on silent retreat. What I was missing was like-minded people around me. A year on from joining this Sangha, I am no longer on any prescribed painkillers and more able to be in the present moment. I want to take this opportunity to thank the members for their generous welcome, gentle encouragement, support and understanding. Namaste, Izzie