Tucked away amidst the beauty of the west of Ireland, amid spectacular limestone hills, the Burren Yoga and Meditation Centre offers both a place of physical retreat and a space to unwind and reconnect with what matters most.

Founded in 1999 by Dublin native David Brocklebank, the centre has become a sanctuary for those seeking clarity and connection in an increasingly disjointed world.

“My mother was very kind and compassionate to others. She embodied what many religions preach, but few practice,” Brocklebank recalls. “From an early age, I had a strong motivation to help others reach their potential. When I came across meditation at 18, it came very easily to me, and I entered a meditative state quite naturally. Through practice, one gets in touch with one’s inner essence rather than listening to the babble of the mind.”

That feeling of inner peace infuses everything at Burren Yoga. From the guided outings through sacred hills once inhabited by druids and mystics, to the vegetarian meals crafted from local, organic ingredients and the glass-walled yoga studio that overlooks timeless landscape, the center offers more than a mere getaway.

“At 35, I realized that yoga and meditation were the most transformative practices I had ever come across,” shares Brocklebank. “I decided to put my life’s work into introducing these practices to others in an enjoyable but authentic way, so that others could experience the benefits.”

Burren Yoga was Ireland’s first dedicated residential retreat center. Since its founding, it has grown into a comprehensive sanctuary, offering services from a team of 14 or more highly trained yoga and meditation teachers, local guides, and reputable chefs. “Many people say they would come back just for the food. But in such a peaceful and inspiring location, away from the noise and stresses, surrounded by such beautiful nature, it is more like food for the soul.”

Indeed, for many visitors, the center becomes a turning point. Some arrive curious, others depleted. “We see people from all walks of life. Some come here because they are going through a difficult period, and they need a break in a positive environment. Some realize that their lifestyle is not serving them well and want to learn healthier habits. And some people just come for the rest.”

Brocklebank notes that while modern life has its conveniences, it also comes with significant pressure. “The pace has changed radically over the past 50 years, and it’s speeding up. Yoga and meditation help us disengage from the endless noise.

“Practices that help us to detach from external pressures, improving our health and mental well-being, are vital to surviving the modern world.”

Yet Brocklebank’s own journey hasn’t always been easy. “We lived in a mobile home for 16 years with two children because we were denied planning permission for a house. Running a retreat center involves facing challenges. We weathered the recession and the pandemic. Having the gratitude to be able to provide an uplifting environment to others is great fuel to help overcome these challenges.”

That same attentiveness extends to Burren Centre’s environmental policy. Completed in 2021, new luxury features include underfloor heating, panoramic windows, super insulation, and even showers that run rainwater. Plans are already underway to make the center fully carbon neutral by the end of 2025, including a spa with an outdoor bathing area and Solar PV panels for all energy needs. “We won the Silver award from Ecotourism Ireland for being proactive. Measures to protect the environment take a lot of work but are extremely important to ensure we are looking after our planet as well as the Burren environment.”

Despite the growing success of the center, Brocklebank’s core motivation hasn’t changed. “Sometimes I receive a letter months later from someone thanking us for helping them change their lives. To know that the work one does helps others is the best reward.”

Even with all his logistical work with planning retreats, coordinating staff, and managing guest bookings, Brocklebank insists on staying personally involved. “I run the retreats in a very hands-on way. I meet with all the guests, go on most guided outings, listen, and interact.”

As for what lies ahead, Brocklebank is thoughtful. “We seek to consistently improve the center so that we can continue to thrive and grow, so more people can benefit from their time here and enjoy the precious moments of life.”

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