Time, Change, and the Art of Letting Go

Time, Change, and the Art of Letting Go

Explore how philosophers from Heraclitus to Heidegger help us face change, impermanence, and the art of letting go.

By Darren Harper

Date and time

Saturday, February 21, 2026 · 10am - 1pm GMT

Location

Cumbria Park Hotel

18-32 Scotland Road Carlisle CA3 9DG United Kingdom

Refund Policy

No Refunds

Agenda

10:00 AM

Session 1

We begin with reflections on the nature of time and change through thinkers like Heraclitus (“everything flows”) and Buddhist ideas on impermanence. Through a mix of presentation, journaling, and gro...

11:30 AM

Session 2

The second half includes a short reading from Heidegger and an exercise on identifying areas of resistance to change. Participants take part in a guided contemplative practice on letting go—not as lo...

About this event

Change is one of life’s few certainties—yet it can be difficult to navigate. This reflective half-day course explores how philosophers and wisdom traditions have understood impermanence, transition, and the passage of time. Drawing on insights from thinkers like Heraclitus, the Buddha, and Heidegger, participants consider how to live more peacefully with change and cultivate a sense of continuity amid life’s shifts. Through writing, discussion, and contemplative practice, we explore letting go not as loss, but as growth.

Suggested Reading: Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman

Frequently asked questions

Do I need any background in philosophy to take part?

Not at all. This course is designed for people with no previous experience in philosophy. The sessions are accessible, engaging, and focused on practical life wisdom—no academic jargon required.

Is this course religious or spiritual?

While the course draws on wisdom from diverse philosophical and spiritual traditions (including Eastern and Western thought), it is not affiliated with any religion. Spiritual practices such as mindfulness or reflection are offered in a gentle and inclusive way.

What should I bring?

Just a notebook or journal and a pen. Handouts and prompts will be provided. You’re welcome to bring a flask or bottle of water, and most venues have tea/coffee available during breaks.

Is there a lot of group sharing? I’m a bit shy.

Sharing is always optional and guided respectfully. Participants often find the atmosphere warm, inclusive, and supportive, and you're encouraged to participate in whatever way feels right for you.

Can I attend just one or two of the sessions?

Yes, you are welcome to book individual sessions. However, attending the full series offers the richest experience, as the sessions build on each other and form a coherent journey.

Will there be any homework?

There is no formal homework or required reading. However, optional reflections, journaling prompts, and suggested books will be offered for those who wish to explore the topics more deeply between sessions.

Can I bring a friend or partner?

Yes, you’re very welcome to attend with a friend or partner. Each participant needs to register separately to ensure we can accommodate everyone comfortably.

Organized by

Darren Harper

Darren holds a BA (Hons) English & Creative Writing (1st class), a PGCE in Lifelong Learning, and has been an adult education teacher for 10 years. He teaches courses in Philosophy, Literature and Creative Writing at residential colleges across the UK, including Dillington House (Somerset), Higham Hall (Cumbria), Knuston Hall (Northamptonshire) and Marlborough College (Wiltshire), as well study days at various independent libraries including the Birmingham & Midland Institute, the Morrab Library `(Penzance, Cornwall), the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Instituion and the Guidford Institute. You can find out more at darrenharper.net, which includes details of on-line courses as well. Darren has almost completed his first book, Encounters and Reflections: An Introduction to Philosophy, which will be published in 2022.

£27