In this week's Q&A we talk to Dave Brocklebank of the amazing Burren Yoga and Meditation Centre...
What makes you get up in the morning?
To be able to pass on the benefits of yoga and meditation to people who come here on our yoga retreat holidays is a fantastic feeling and just living in the Burren on the west coast of Ireland is inspirational.
What's your business philosophy?
My business philosophy is to 'do what you love doing, do it well, and continue to improve'. That way people are inspired by one's love and passion, and everyone benefits.
What are your biggest challenges right now?
We have been working on a project to build a new state of the art residential yoga centre over the past 6 years. When we were ready to begin building in 2013, the banks refused to provide the loan. We now need to find alternative ways to raise the funding.
What makes your business unique?
My passion and commitment to providing the best quality yoga and meditation instruction within a relaxed, friendly, holiday environment. The amazing location of the Burren where I lead guided outings each day, and the amazing vegetarian food provided by Paddi our cook who used to run Seventh Heaven restaurant for over 12 years in Galway City.
How do you unwind?
Each day begins with a yoga and meditation practice and part of my work includes guided outings in the Burren including hill walking, surfing, boat trips to the Cliffs of Moher, and visiting local attractions. On my time off, my favourite activity is sailing - be it in a small one man dinghy, or on a larger cruising yacht or just relaxing and spending time with my wife and two children.
What's so great about the 'West of Ireland'?
The unspoilt Nature, the spectacular scenery that changes around every corner, the easy-going naturalness and friendliness of the people, and the lack of stress and pressure compared to cities makes it like stepping back 50 years in time.
What's your favourite place in the West (other than where you are?)
The whole West coast from Donegal right down to Kerry is absolutely stunning and breath-taking. Put me in a sailing boat anywhere along the West coast of Ireland and I am in heaven. Even though the Burren is my favourite place, there are so many other beautiful locations it is impossible to choose one over the rest. I think it is the variety of so many great places all within a short distance of each other that brings back visitors time and time again.
If you could ask for more investment in any one area for the West, what would it be?
Shannon airport and whatever it takes to attract in cheap airlines to provide more flights and promote flying to this region. A huge percentage of people only see the West of Ireland on a tour bus and do not get a chance to rub shoulders with the local people, or stay in the friendly professional accommodation, or sample the huge range of local cuisine. If we can get a higher percentage of visitors to stay a few nights, they will come back with their family and friends. A rushed, packed tour bus does not allow one to get a genuine feeling of the west coast of Ireland, and without amazing experiences, it is difficult to create a deep connection with the place and a desire to return.
Are you optimistic for the West of Ireland?
The beauty and spectacular scenery and the warmth and friendliness of the people are among the many fantastic and enduring features of the West of Ireland. With so many great things on offer here, the West can only continue to grow in the hearts of our visitors and is destined to thrive in the years to come. We do need to carefully manage our resources in order to ensure sustainability of this beautiful environment.
If you could let the world know about only three other businesses in the West what would they be?
The Ballyvaughan Tea Rooms, Linnane's Lobster Bar in New Quay and Aloha Surf School at Fanore Beach.
All the Good Stuff at the Burren Yoga & Meditation Centre:
Yoga weekends and Yoga retreat holidays at the Burren Yoga and Meditation Centre. These weekend yoga retreats and week long yoga holidays are suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced practitioners. Their complete yoga retreat holiday includes:
- the best quality yoga and meditation instruction
- guided outings to visit local attractions
- boat trips to the Cliffs of Moher
- outdoor activities including hill walking, surfing, kayaking, strolls by the sea and simply relaxing in nature
- sample local cuisine for lunch at restaurants and cafes during guided outings
- optional vegetarian cooking classes
- comfortable accommodation
all within a genuine yogic environment.
More info: www.burrenyoga.com
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