Looking for a break from seasonal stress? The Matara Centre may have the answer.

In the middle of crazy Christmas queues, the stress of visiting relatives and overindulgence, one quiet corner of the Cotswolds remains a haven of calm and tranquillity.

As you step into the beautiful meditative gardens of the Matara Centre you can almost feel the tension slipping away.

The Matara Centre first opened in 2004, the inspiration of Jeffrey Higgins, with the aim of providing an uplifting oasis of beauty and calm for workshops of all kinds as well as weddings, blessings and a range of other celebrations. It is fast making a name as a venue with something genuinely 'different' to offer on both a personal and corporate level.

Set in 28 acres of tranquil grounds in unspoiled Cotswold countryside near Tetbury, the Centre is a blend of ancient and modern, East and West. The unique fusion of inspiration is evident in the architecture, interiors, and landscaping where Eastern design sits comfortably alongside traditional Cotswold features.

The journey into this restorative haven begins as you pass through the Centre's Tori arch, a symbolic gateway between the physical and spirit worlds and enter the Eastern woodlands.

In the Eastern tradition, trees, shrubs, plants and rocks have been planned to symbolise aspects of life. Kingfishers and herons can often be seen around ponds and other water features.

Those visiting the garden can also take in artist, Alan Thornhill's images on the Sculpture Walk or discover symbols from around the World on the Symbol Trail.

Back at the Centre it is possible to experience the traditional way of cleaning negative energy by crossing the Japanese strolling bridge. The adjoining Hilarium room has a breathtaking: 18ft domed ceiling, smooth bamboo flooring and floods of natural light, and is the Centre's largest purpose-built meeting room at 12m x 12m.

A range of other rooms including smaller meeting spaces and intimate mediation rooms can also be accessed for private occasions The rooms are popular with alternative therapists, wedding couples and businesses alike.

A programme of well being events for 2006 is currently still under consideration but courses based on inner development, restoring personal balance and meditation formed a successful part of the Centre's programme in 2005.

With a total commitment to wellbeing and celebration of life Matara provides a healing space and ideal conditions for meditation and spiritual development, so if a holistic approach is important to your well-being for the New Year make sure the Matara Centre is in your address book.

The Matara Centre Kingscote Park, Kingscote, Nr Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8YA Tel: 01453 861050 Email: info@matara.co.uk