What happens when life hits rock bottom and how do you rebuild health, happiness, and purpose?
In this episode of HCA Talks Health, we speak with Edward Harpin, owner and course director of The Tree, which was recently named one of the top 20 retreats in the world by The Times!
Edward shares how he rebuilt his life after hitting rock bottom, the simple practices that helped him heal, and the mindset changes that helped him find purpose. He also talks about his book Waking Up in the World and why he wanted to make sure he didn’t leave life with his “music still inside him.”
🎧 Tune in to discover:
- How to spot when your life isn’t working and make real changes
- Everyday tools for resilience and managing tough emotions
- How short daily mindfulness can change the way you think
- Turning hard times into opportunities to grow
- Why it’s so important to share your unique gifts with the world
A practical, honest conversation for anyone wanting more clarity, balance, and purpose in life.

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction
Welcome to HCA Talks Health. Zena introduces Edward Harpin, his retreat centre The Tree, and his book Waking Up in the World.

01:00 – Why Edward Wrote His Book
Edward shares when and why he started writing, and his early experiences in a Buddhist retreat centre.

02:00 – The 10 Elements of the Waking Path
Edward outlines the core universal principles that shaped his teachings and later formed the structure of his book.

04:00 – Intention Behind the Book
Edward discusses dedicating his life to service and why making teachings accessible was so important to him.

05:00 – A 20-Year Writing Journey
How the book evolved from journals and scattered notes into a cohesive project.

06:00 – The Turning Point: “Don’t Die With Your Music Still Inside You”
Edward’s pivotal moment inspired by Wayne Dyer and The Death of Ivan Ilyich.

09:00 – Waking Up to a More Authentic Life
A conversation about how many people reach a point where they question the life they’re living.

10:00 – Edward’s Rock Bottom
He shares openly about drug-induced psychosis, depression, suicidal thoughts, and calling the Samaritans.

12:00 – Rock Bottom as a Blessing
How his darkest experience became the catalyst for his spiritual path and teachings.

13:00 – Early Steps in Healing
Diagnosis, searching for alternatives, and discovering mindfulness through an acupuncturist.

15:00 – Learning to Witness Thoughts
The transformative moment where mindfulness allowed him to see thoughts differently.

16:00 – The “Incomplete Instructions” for Happiness
Chasing success, money, status — and why these don’t bring lasting fulfillment.

18:00 – The Cycle of Desire
Edward explains how the mind creates cravings and why happiness feels fleeting.

19:00 – The Alternative: Turning Inward
Realising peace comes from within, not from achieving external goals.

20:00 – Practical Steps to Begin the Inner Journey
Teaching, practice, retreats, and guidance from experienced teachers.

22:00 – How This Path Changed His Life
Shifting careers, being more present, and prioritising the quality of each day.

24:00 – Gratitude & Presence
How living more mindfully changes the way we experience life.

25:00 – The Tree Relaxation Retreat
Edward describes the retreat centre, its purpose, and the types of courses offered.

27:00 – What Happens on Different Retreats
Weekend relaxation retreats, yoga weekends, and five-day silent retreats.

28:00 – How to Join a Retreat or Access Resources
Website details, gu