Embodying Change | Yi Jing + Qi Gong Retreat

12-14 June 2026, Bonhays Retreat Centre, Dorset, UK

In this long weekend retreat we will be exploring the yarrow divination methods, powerful teachings of this anvcient book, as well as the Yi Jing Qi Gong, all in the beautiful setting of Bonhays Meditation Centre in West Dorset

The Yi Jing or Book of Change is the seminal text on the nature of experience, and as a divination tool a powerful guide to life. This is amongst the oldest of humanity’s books, and yet it continues to speak to the present day with acute insight and profound understanding. It is as Jung says, the only book with a living soul.

I often say that the Yi Jing is like a true friend that has already reached enlightenment on your behalf - giving potent, honest advice on almost everything from the nature of your path, relationships, health and key decisions in life. Knowing how to develop this relationship with respect and understanding, is the key to further unlocking the wisdom of this living classic.

  • I was given a copy of Richard Wilhelm's translation of the I Ching as a teenager. I've worked off and on, in a very basic way, ever since. It always seemed full of mystery and wisdom, and somehow remained impenetrable. Ryan's classes have opened up a box of delights. I found his teaching style clear and accessible. His depth of knowledge inspirational.

    Chris Walker

  • Ryan's Yi Jing course is exceptional. It offers a strong foundation for the beginner and would enhance and broaden the understanding of those who are already well familiar with the practice.

    Judith Hooper

  • Ryan really helps us to find the true nature of ancient Chinese symbols, balancing theory, practice and material, while staying open-minded about how to interpret, and build understanding in application.

    Aurelie

Bonhays has been the centre of my training for the last 10 years, and is very close to my heart. There have been some moments of giving assistance in the past, but it is an exciting prospect to be able to offer a full retreat there.

Those of you that have been will know it’s magic, for those of you that don’t - Bonhays is an eco-retreat built around a quiet courtyard, tucked into rolling West Dorset countryside. It has many beautiful features - cosy straw bale buildings, a wild orchard, a heated indoor pool, simple rooms. The Wild jurassic coast is walkable or a short drive.

There are shared spaces for eating and companionship, and plenty of tucked-away corners for rest or solitude.

The food is equisite

  • Ryan has a talent for creating clear, concise course material with the depth required for a robust understanding of ancient philosophies. Additionally, his teaching manner is calm, patient and respectful. Highly recommended!

    Angela Bradshaw

  • Ryan is a sensitive, intuitive, gentle and insightful teacher. He is dedicated to presenting the I Ching in a very direct way where the person doing the divination can connect and tap to that wisdom that has always been there but maybe covered or inaccessible. What I liked the most was realizing that the I Ching was not that huge book and body of knowledge I had to sit down to study (although it can be, if you want) but a much more approachable system that you can connect with more simply and intuitively.

    Participant

  • Ryan has a very deep understanding of his subject. Esoteric yet accessible.

    Helen Hunt

Single, shared twin or double rooms are available. Bathrooms, shower and toilet facilities are shared.

There may be a number of other options available inc;uding a secluded shepherds hut and cottage..

Camping with your own tent or camper van is also an option.

Evie, the resident chef at Bonhays, sources organic ingredients locally and produces wonderful, hearty, healthy and super tasty food. All the food is vegetarian.

Meals are provided Friday evening through to Sunday lunchtime inclusive.

Food + Accommodation

Retreat Elements

  • Yi JIng Qi Gong

  • Meditation

  • Harvesting Yarrow

  • Yarrow Divination

  • Ritual

  • Interpretation

Booking + Prices

Booking options are shown opposite. Please note that a non refundable £150 deposit is due on booking, with the rest due 6 weeks before travel. Once you have booked please fill in the form below with your preferred option.

There are two 25% off scholarships available, please only apply in absolute need.

Single room with meals: £520 (£468 before 05/01/26)

Shared room with meals: £470 (£423 before 05/01/26)

Non resident with meals: £380 (£347 before 05/01/26)

Non resident without meals: £320 (£288 before 05/01/26)

Book

Retreat + Online Course

From January to March 2026 I will be running an eight week online course on the Yi Jing,. This will be more theory based, and so complementary to the in person retreat which will be practice based.

If you book the retreat you will automatically receive a 20% discount on my online course (the discounted link will be provided after booking the deposit).

Learn more