Over three months of sustained practice, we deepen in presence and release grasping—learning to rest in a vast, awake stillness that does not depend on circumstances.

Set in the wild beauty of the Northern California mountains, up to 20 practitioners gather for intensive contemplative training. Silence, community, teachings, and nature create a powerful container for transformation. The daily rhythm blends sitting and walking meditation, mindful activity, personal interviews, and direct teachings rooted in both the Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta and pointing-out instructions to the nature of awareness. We integrate gradual cultivation of the path with the capacity to directly touch the groundless, boundless essence of our mind and life.

The retreat offers an unusual combination of rigor and warmth. While the schedule is disciplined and thorough, we teach in a spirit of welcome and opening, rather than rejection or striving. Over time, participants learn to meet experience with compassion and clarity, discovering a reliable peace that carries into every aspect of life.

Whether you're entering long retreat for the first time or returning to deepen, this is a rare opportunity to practice in community, with close and skilled guidance, in conditions designed to support realization.

Practice Format

• 12+ hours of formal sitting and walking meditation daily

• Noble silence throughout (except for essential communication and teachings)

• Dharma instruction integrating Satipaṭṭhāna, heart cultivation, and nondual awareness

• Individual teacher meetings 2–5 times per week

• Optional offerings: yoga, pranayama, and guided meditations

• Technology-free environment: no phones, internet, or outside communication

• After the initial weeks, the schedule softens to support individualized rhythms

Meals are simple and designed to support digestion and intensive meditation practice. Alternatives are available for common dietary restrictions (dairy-free, gluten-free, MSG-free). Please note any additional dietary needs on your application.

Please bring only naturally scented or unscented toiletries (shampoo, soap, lotion, etc.) to support the retreat environment.

The retreat is offered on dana, or generosity. Please contribute according to your means and inspiration, and to the best of your ability to contribute toward the cost of the retreat. More details available on request.