Mindful Making Between the Sea and Mountains

CODE: CONCUK267

Work
Volunteers will support the work of the Kadampa Art Studio (KAS) by sanding, refining, and finishing Buddha statues and decorative elements for temples and centres around the world. It’s a hands-on role where you can contribute to beautiful, high-quality craftsmanship in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Along the way, you’ll pick up practical skills such as surface preparation, finishing techniques, and working with fine detail. The work encourages a mindful approach and will help you build patience, focus, and a sense of calm as you work carefully with each piece.

Many volunteers find the experience both grounding and rewarding, offering a chance to slow down, learn something new, and take pride in creating something that will be appreciated by others.

No previous experience is needed, and you don’t need to be religious. You just need to be open-minded, willing to learn, and happy to get involved as part of a supportive team.

Please note that some tasks involve working with fine dust, and appropriate safety equipment such as dust masks will be provided and should be worn when required.Accomodation and food
Volunteers will stay on-site at Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre in shared, single-gender dormitories. Accommodation is simple, comfortable, and designed to encourage community living and cultural exchange among participants.

Shared bathroom and toilet facilities are also single-gender. Volunteers should be prepared for communal living and respect the privacy and comfort of others.

Three vegetarian or vegan meals per day will be provided. Meals are nutritious, freshly prepared. Tea and coffee facilities will also be available.

Please inform the organisers in advance of any dietary requirements or allergies.

Location and leisure
Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre is located near the historic market town of Ulverston in Cumbria, on the edge of the beautiful Lake District National Park, one of the UK's most famous natural areas.

During their free time, volunteers can:
• Participate in meditation classes or guided prayers.
• Relax in the peaceful grounds of the centre.
• Explore the Lake District's stunning mountains, lakes, and walking trails.
• Visit nearby towns such as Ulverston, Kendal, and Ambleside.
• Enjoy local cafés, shops, and cultural attractions.
• Visit nearby coastal areas and nature reserves.

The combination of meaningful volunteer work and access to one of the UK's most beautiful regions makes this a unique and rewarding experience.

Project hosted by
Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre is the mother centre of a worldwide network of modern Kadampa Buddhist centres founded by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, who guided every aspect of the centre's development for over 40 years.

It is a special place dedicated to world peace, where people from all backgrounds can find inner peace, learn practical methods to solve everyday problems, and develop the ability to help others do the same.

The centre is based at Conishead Priory, a Grade II* listed Romantic Gothic house located just south of the English Lake District. Set within 70 acres of woodland and gardens on the shores of Morecambe Bay, it provides a peaceful and inspiring environment for volunteering, learning, and reflection.

Volunteering at Manjushri KMC offers a unique and enriching experience, both personally and spiritually. As part of an international community, volunteers spend time with people from many countries and all walks of life, each bringing different perspectives, experiences, and skills.

Those who wish can learn about meditation and explore Buddhist teachings, while enjoying the supportive atmosphere of a warm and welcoming community. In their free time, volunteers can easily explore the breathtaking lakes, mountains, and villages of the Lake District, one of the most beautiful regions of the United Kingdom.

Directions to meeting point
The meeting point is:
Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre
Conishead Priory
Ulverston, Cumbria
LA12 9QQ
United Kingdom

The nearest railway station is Ulverston Station, which is connected to major UK rail networks. Participants arriving by train can take a local taxi from the station to the centre.

Detailed arrival information, including directions and contact numbers, will be provided before the start of the project.

The nearest airports are Manchester Airport and Liverpool John Lennon Airport, both of which offer rail connections to Ulverston.

Extra Fee: £100 / €116