Retreats
Find Your Inner Peace
Transformative Meditation & Mindfulness:Wellbeing Retreats in the UK
Guided by qualified psychotherapist, neuroscientist and former Buddhist monk, Roger Jayamanne
- Small groups (max 16) - UK countryside venues
- Evidence-based approach - All experience levels welcome
About Your Guide
Roger Jayamanne brings together advanced psychological training, therapeutic expertise, and decades of meditation and mindfulness experience to create profound healing spaces. As a qualified psychotherapist with an MSc in the Neuroscience and Psychology of Mental Health (focusing particularly on mindfulness practice and its pedagogy) and a Masters focusing specifically on developmental psychology, Roger combines rigorous academic understanding with deep contemplative practice from multiple traditions. Roger is preparing to commence PhD doctoral research in Psychology, building on his MSc work to further investigate how mindfulness and meditation practices support psychological wellbeing and self-regulation.
In addition to his Sri Lankan heritage and this academic foundation, Roger has spent decades studying Buddhism in both the Theravadin and Tibetan traditions, including a number of years as a monk in the Tibetan tradition. Roger has also studied both Eastern and Western philosophy extensively, providing him with a broad philosophical foundation that enriches his understanding of contemplative practices.
This integration of scientific knowledge and authentic contemplative training allows him to offer practices that are both evidence-based and rooted in traditional wisdom, creating a uniquely comprehensive approach to wellbeing that honours both contemporary research and time-tested contemplative methods.
What distinguishes Roger’s approach is his remarkable ability to draw together principles of modern psychology, meditation and mindfulness practice, and Western and Eastern philosophy in a way that provides participants with genuine opportunities to bring meditation and mindfulness significantly into everyday life.
His teaching aspires to remove the illusory veil between the ordinary and extraordinary, helping practitioners discover a recognition of their authentic self and experience that can become lost in everyday stress and overthinking.
Drawing from multidisciplinary expertise that also includes decades of training in traditional Japanese martial arts, Roger brings an understanding of embodied somatic awareness, breath cultivation, and the subtle energies known as ki — complementing the prana concepts found in Indian Dharmic traditions.
This embodied approach to contemplative practice creates a rich foundation for understanding how breath, body, and mind work together in the journey towards wellbeing.
Roger’s retreats offer an exceptional opportunity to experience authentic meditation and mindfulness teachings from Eastern meditative traditions, integrated with evidence-based therapeutic approaches, creating a safe and transformative environment for personal growth and healing.
Evidence-Based Practice
These practices and exercises are rooted in robust research into the measurable benefits of meditation and mindfulness. They are not simply ‘exotic Eastern exercises’ but genuinely beneficial practices that psychology and neuroscience have rigorously confirmed.
Roger’s approach draws from this scientific foundation to offer techniques that have been validated through empirical research for their positive effects on mental wellbeing, emotional regulation, and cognitive function.
The integration of traditional wisdom with contemporary research ensures participants receive practices that are both time-tested and scientifically supported, providing a solid foundation for personal growth and wellbeing.
Teaching Through Story
An integral part of each retreat day concludes with teaching stories — carefully selected narratives that serve far more than entertainment. These stories provide powerful context and meaning-making metaphors that complement the day’s meditation practice and psychological insights.
Often, a well-chosen story can deliver lessons and understanding about mindfulness and meditation principles more comprehensively and significantly quicker than theoretical presentations alone.
Roger draws from a rich treasury of wisdom stories from various contemplative traditions, psychological case studies, and contemporary parables that illuminate the essential principles of awareness, compassion, and inner transformation.
These evening sessions create a reflective close to each day, helping participants integrate their experiences through the universal language of narrative.
One-to-One Practice Interviews
Each participant will have the opportunity for a brief one-to-one interview with Roger during the retreat. These sessions are specifically focused on your meditation and mindfulness practice — helping to clarify techniques, address questions about your experience, and provide personalised guidance for your continued practice.
These interviews are not intended as therapy sessions, but rather as practical support for your contemplative practice. They provide an opportunity to discuss what’s arising in your meditation, receive tailored advice on technique, and explore how to integrate the practices into your daily life.
If you require specific therapeutic assistance, we encourage you to consult with a qualified therapist outside of the retreat setting.
The interviews are brief, focused, and designed to enhance your retreat experience and ongoing practice development.
What Makes Our Retreats Special
Psychologically Informed Environment: As a qualified psychotherapist with advanced academic training in developmental psychology and the neuroscience of mental health, Roger creates retreat environments informed by his therapeutic experience and scientifically grounded understanding of how mindfulness practices affect psychological wellbeing and brain function.
Multi-Traditional Approach: The convergence of Eastern meditative wisdom and therapeutic practice creates a uniquely comprehensive approach to wellbeing that honours both traditional contemplative methods and contemporary research.
Small Group Experience: Intimate retreat settings (at most 16 participants) ensure personalised attention and meaningful connections with fellow practitioners.
Beautiful UK Locations: Carefully selected venues in peaceful natural settings across the UK, providing the perfect backdrop for inner exploration.
Integration Focus: Practical guidance on bringing retreat insights into daily life, ensuring lasting transformation beyond the retreat experience.
Retreats Available
Weekend Meditation & Mindfulness Intensives
Friday evening to Sunday afternoon
Perfect for beginners and experienced practitioners alike. These intensive weekends provide deep immersion in meditation and mindfulness practice, contemplative techniques, and group reflection in a supportive environment.
What’s Included:
- All meals and accommodation
- Guided meditation and visualisation as well as silent sessions
- Psychology and wellbeing talks
- Evening teaching stories
- Breathing practices drawn from Buddhist traditions, Japanese martial arts, and research-based techniques backed by neuroscience
- One-to-one practice interviews
Longer Duration Retreats Available
4 to 6 Nights
A deeper dive into meditation, mindfulness and self-discovery. These longer retreats allow for profound inner work and sustainable habit formation, with the possibility for longer, deeper session times.
What’s Included:
- All meals and accommodation
- Guided meditation and visualisation as well as silent sessions
- Somatic meditation techniques
- One-to-one practice interviews
- Psychology and wellbeing talks
- Evening teaching stories
- Breathing practices drawn from Buddhist traditions, Japanese martial arts, and research-based techniques backed by neuroscience
Bespoke Private Retreats
Tailored to your needs
Individual or small groupretreats designed specifically for your unique circumstances and goals. For enquiries and planning please contact directly via email.
Who Will Benefit?
Our retreats are ideal for:
- Those seeking authentic meditation and mindfulness instruction
- Individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, or life transitions
- Anyone wanting to deepen their spiritual practice
- People interested in Buddhist psychology and mindfulness
- Those curious about the intersection of multiple Eastern contemplative traditions
- Practitioners wanting to explore breath work from various wisdom traditions
- Anyone drawn to both the precision of Theravadin practice and the compassion emphasis of Tibetan Buddhism
- Anyone looking to find evidence-based psychological methods for wellbeing and self-regulation
No previous meditation or mindfulness experience required. All levels welcome.
Upcoming Retreats
There are a number of dates available in Spring, Summer and Autumn of each year. Please contact us for further information. rogerjaya@jayatherapy.co.uk
What Participants Say
“The integration of meditation awareness was revelatory. I finally understood what embodied presence really means.”
— Sarah, Teacher
“Having both a therapist and someone trained in multiple contemplative traditions created such a unique and powerful experience. The breathing practices alone transformed my daily life.”
— Michael, Healthcare Worker
“The way Eastern traditions were woven together with therapeutic work felt completely natural and deeply healing.”
— Emma, Social Worker
“The inclusion of philosophy, psychology and meditation experience was woven together seamlessly and gave me a genuine sense that I can take these practices back into my daily life.”
— Jack, Philosophy Student
Practical Information
What to Bring:
- Comfortable clothing for meditation and gentle movement
- Notebook and pen
- Open mind and willingness to explore
Seating and Posture:
Comfortable seating is always available. No-one is expected to sit on the floor or in elaborate meditation postures — only an upright posture is required.
Personal meditation cushions are welcome but not provided as standard.
Accommodation:
Single and shared room options are available at most venues. All rooms are comfortable with access to shared bathroom facilities.
Dietary Requirements:
All meals are provided. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. Other special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
Accessibility:
We strive to make our retreats accessible to all. Please contact us to discuss any specific needs.
Investment in Your Wellbeing
Retreat fees include all instruction, accommodation, and meals.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Spaces are limited to ensure intimate, personalised experiences. We recommend booking early to secure your place. Please email all enquiries to rogerjaya@jayatherapy.co.uk
Booking Process:
- Contact us to discuss your needs and interests
- Secure your place with deposit
- Receive pre-retreat materials and preparation guidance
Our Non-Dogmatic Approach
These retreats are not about introducing, cajoling, or inferring adherence to what may be considered dogma in reference to any religious or philosophical doctrine. The wisdom traditions we draw from are offered as practical tools for wellbeing and self-understanding.
There is no requirement for belief, only an open disposition towards exploring one’s own mind and inner experience.
Roger’s approach honours the contemplative insights found across traditions while maintaining complete respect for participants’ existing beliefs, values, and worldviews.
Whether you come from a particular faith tradition, consider yourself secular, or are somewhere in between, these practices can enrich and inform any contemplative or meditative approach you may already have.
The teachings are offered as universal principles of awareness and wellbeing that can complement and deepen your existing spiritual or philosophical framework.
You are welcome to engage with these practices in whatever way feels authentic to you, integrating what resonates while leaving what does not align with your personal path.
Important Information About Our Retreats
These retreats are designed to support personal growth and contemplative practice. While Roger brings his therapeutic training to create a safe and supportive environment, these retreats are not intended as treatment for severe mental health conditions or as a substitute for professional mental health care.
Retreats take place in a shared practice space with other participants, creating a supportive community atmosphere. However, you will not be required to engage in group exercises or partner work — while a friendly atmosphere is encouraged, these retreats focus on personal reflection, contemplation, and inner exploration.
You are free to engage at your own comfort level. Each participant has their own private room, providing space for solitude and personal reflection whenever needed.
NB. If you are currently experiencing significant mental health challenges, we encourage you to discuss your interest in attending with your healthcare provider first. We want to ensure that our retreat format is the right fit for your current needs and circumstances.
Roger’s therapeutic background helps create a psychologically safe container for the natural insights and emotions that can arise during meditation practice, and participants are expected to be aware of the potential for encountering unforeseen emotional experiences during contemplative practices.
We are always happy to discuss whether a retreat might be suitable for your particular situation — please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What meditation and mindfulness practices does Roger teach?
Roger draws from Buddhist traditions, integrated with somatic awareness practices. Many practices are also informed by evidence-based principles validated through empirical research.
This includes breathing practices drawn from Buddhist traditions, Japanese martial arts, and research-based techniques backed by neuroscience, creating a rich foundation for contemplative practice.
What if emotions come up during the retreat?
This is completely normal and expected. As a qualified psychotherapist, Roger is equipped to provide appropriate support for whatever arises.
The somatic practices also help create a safe container for emotional processing.
Can I attend if I’m not Buddhist?
Yes, people of all backgrounds are welcome. The practices are offered as integrated tools for wellbeing, drawing wisdom from multiple traditions rather than for an exclusively religious purpose.
How do different Buddhist traditions complement each other?
The precision and mindfulness emphasis of Theravadin practice beautifully complements the compassion and wisdom focus of Tibetan Buddhism, offering a well-rounded approach to meditation and personal development.
What’s the difference between Roger’s retreats and others?
The unique integration of authentic training in multiple Buddhist traditions, advanced psychological academic background, and extremely broad philosophical understanding creates a particularly comprehensive approach to contemplative practice.
This multidisciplinary foundation allows Roger to offer practices rooted in tradition while being informed by contemporary research and cross-cultural wisdom.
"In the stillness of retreat, we uncover our true self that was always here."
Transform your relationship with yourself and the world around you. Your journey to greater peace and wellbeing can begin here.