BBC: A Buddhist from Essex was forced to apply for planning permission to meditate in his own patch of woodland.
Edward James, 51, from Westcliff-on-Sea, wanted to use North Wood near Hockley to practice his religion with friends.
As a Buddhist, Mr James hoped to use the site, which overlooks a river, as his path to enlightenment, but found his route was blocked by local planners.
A complaint from a nearby landowner alerted Rochford District Council to his meditation and the planning department stepped in.
Searched for years
Mr James was told his meditation would require the authority’s consent as it was a change of use for the land.