Dates: Monday, June 17, 3:00pm – Sunday, June 23, 11:30am
Sliding Scale: $1600-$700 PLUS a donation to the teacher(s) and retreat staff. Code 262R19.

The retreat is currently in session.

Retreat Description:
Nobody tells us this when we’re growing up, but being human is kind of a big deal. It feels great, it hurts, it’s intense. We know it won’t go on forever. Given this, what kind of happiness is possible for us? The Buddha suggested that we have underestimated the capacity of our heart. Retreat helps us to remember. In mindfulness meditation, we practice resting, looking deeply, knowing moment-by-moment what it’s like to be human. Initially, some of us are hesitant to look because we’re concerned about what we’ll find. But our practice shows us that the more deeply we look, the more reason we have to love. Together, we’ll sit in the refuge provided by a 2,600-year legacy of wisdom and kindness. In the silence, we come to know the preciousness of our life and the poignancy of the human condition. From this openness, so much goodness unfolds.

In this silent retreat, we will explore essential Buddhist teachings and meditation practices. There will be systematic instructions in mindfulness meditation, as well as in loving-kindness practice. The evening talks will highlight key Buddhist teachings and their practical application to our lives. Throughout the retreat there are meetings with teachers to support you in your practice.

Financial assistance is available for all Spirit Rock residential retreats. Our scholarship rate is $40/night and available for all those with financial hardship with special funds allocated to People of Color (POC), folks with serious medical conditions, and young adults (age 18-26). Scholarship funding is offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. Scholarships are budgeted per retreat and because they are in high demand, can run out quickly. We encourage you to register for a retreat as close as possible to the registration opening date (lotteries are an exception).

Location: Upper Walking Hall. This retreat is designed as a smaller and more intimate retreat and as such, it is held in the upper Walking Hall. This hall is located at the top of a flight of stairs adjacent to the main meditation hall. It is not accessible by wheelchair or scooter. If you have mobility limitations such that you cannot climb a flight of stairs, this retreat is not appropriate for you. Please call the registration department for more details BEFORE you register for this retreat if you have concerns related to accessibility to the upper Walking Hall.