Retreats

Thursday evening, November 7, 6-8 p.m.

Friday-Thursday, November 8-14, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Additional evening program on November 9 and 11 until 8:30 p.m.

 

 

Join us for a joyful and supportive week-long meditation retreat. Come for the whole week or as much of the week as possible! Open to new and experienced practitioners.

 

Weekthun includes group and individual instruction, sitting and walking meditation, dharma talks, group discussion, and shared meals. The program is carefully designed to support participants in deepening their mindfulness-awareness practice and cultivating an open heart. The environment is relaxed and supportive. Practicing in community for a full week is a gift. We hope you can join us!

 

The theme for the Fall Weekthun is the Paramitas. What are the paramitas? They are techniques that guide us on our path of waking up to ourselves and the world. A teaching of Mahayana Buddhism, the paramitas help us learn to let go and open our hearts further. The six paramitas include generosity, discipline, patience, exertion, meditation, and wisdom. The Sanskrit word paramita means to “cross over to the other shore.” When we practice the paramitas in daily life, we cross over the sea of suffering to the shore of awakening. We connect with our true nature. But, it's not always easy. We experience the messiness of life. We notice our habitual tendencies and selfishness creeping in, and when we do, we can be gentle with ourselves and work with the paramitas. Each day will include a dharma talk and discussion on one of the paramitas. Readings will be provided. 

 

For the full experience, we encourage you to sign up for the entire retreat. If that is not possible, we recommend attending from Thursday evening November 7th through Monday, November 11th. Other partial participation is welcome as well; please contact Rachel at [email protected] or 594-1694 to discuss the options.

 

Plan for full days (8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and additional evening programs (until 8:30 p.m.) on Saturday, 11/9 and Monday, 11/11. Silence will be held for several days of the retreat. See full schedule below.

 

Level: Everyone is welcome; no previous meditation experience necessary.

 

Generosity: Our offerings available to all who wish to participate. If the suggested amounts below are an obstacle for you, please consider what is possible in your current situation and offer what you are able. Donations in any amount are gratefully appreciated. Kindly register ahead by email. Thank you!

 

Registration: Early registration is greatly appreciated. Kindly complete payment below or contact Rachel at [email protected] or 594-1694 to register and discuss other payment options.

 

Service: Weekthun is self-staffed meaning that participants help with registration, meal prep/clean up, timekeeping, cleaning, etc. Participants will be invited to contribute a “crock pot” soup lunch for the group.

 

Meals: The program fee includes tea/coffee, lunch, afternoon tea/snacks, and dinner on the days that include evening programs.

 

Housing: If you are coming from out-of-town and would like help finding a place to stay, please email John at [email protected]