A Fresh Start: Creating a Joyful Year Ahead

A Fresh Start: Creating a Joyful Year Ahead
Sat 17 Jan 2026 - Half-Day Course, 10am - 1.15pm
At Heruka Kadampa Meditation Centre, Golders Green
With Kadam John McBretney
As a new year begins, many of us long for greater clarity, purpose, and genuine happiness. We may feel weighed down by old habits, discouragement, or a lack of direction. This half-day course offers practical Buddhist teachings and meditations to help you start the year feeling lighter, more inspired, and emotionally uplifted.
In this accessible and encouraging course, Kadam John McBretney will explore how Buddhist wisdom can help you:
- Understand the inner causes of feeling low and being stuck
- Let go of negative thought patterns that drain energy and joy and cultivate a genuine sense of meaning and direction
- Create the foundations for a happy, purposeful year ahead
Everyone is welcome – no experience needed.
About the teacher
Kadam John McBretney is the Resident Teacher of Heruka KMC and has been studying and practising Kadampa Buddhism for over 30 years. Known for his joyful and down-to-earth style, he has a rare ability to make even the deepest subjects clear and accessible, guiding students effortlessly to develop lasting inner peace and wisdom.
Schedule
- Registration - 9.30am - 10am
- Session 1 - 10am - 11.15am
- Break - 11.15am - 11.45am
- Session 2 - 11.45am - 1.15pm
- Lunch - 1.15pm
The course is free for Silver members and above. Lunch is £6 for all.
Available live-streamed on Zoom for Silver members and above.
Upcoming Courses & Retreats

Upcoming Events
Prajnaparamita Empowerment & Overcoming Hindrances
Sat 31 Jan to Sun 1 Feb 2026
Free FP Introduction class
Wed 4 Feb 2026, 7pm-9pm
Amitayus Retreat: Long Life, Merit & Wisdom
Fri 6 - Sat 7 Feb 2026
A Buddhist Approach to Transforming the Inner Critic
Sat 14 Feb 2026
From Conflict to Calm – Half-day Retreat
Sat 7 Mar 2026
Nagarjuna Away Retreat – Awakening the Heart: Transforming Life’s Challenges
Fri 20 - Sun 22 Mar 2026
Living Peacefully: Embracing Contentment in Every Moment
Sat 28 Mar 2026
Avalokiteshvara Fasting & Purification Retreat ~ Nyungnay
Sat 11 - Sun 12 Apr 2026
The Preciousness of Tantra: Gateway to Enlightenment
Sat 18 Apr 2026
Explore Buddhism: What Does Death Mean?
Sat 25 Apr 2026
The Power of a Calm Mind - Silent Day Retreat
Sat 2 May 2026