Awake in the Wild: "Embracing Change" Meditation in Nature Retreat

On this retreat we will meditate outdoors in the natural beauty and mystery here at Vallecitos.  Whether it is during sunset meditations, listening to the soothing sounds of the river, or sitting graced in the stillness of the aspen trees, we will open to the profound serenity and wisdom of nature.

This silent retreat is grounded in the practice of Mindfulness – the capacity to be present to ourselves and our environment. Participants will learn to bring this receptive presence to develop a contemplative relationship with nature. By cultivating an inner quiet and curious spirit we can learn from nature as a perennial teacher. In particular, we will explore the changing nature of all experience and how nature supports us to find acceptance, letting go, peace  and a wise relationship to the transient experience of being human.

Participants will also discover how meditative time outdoors leads to beautiful states of joy, peace, wonder, love and connection with oneself, each other and the larger web of life.

On the retreat there will be guided nature-based meditations, mindful walks, Dharma talks on meditation, nature and impermanence and group meetings with the teacher. There will be time to relish in the silence outdoors and to explore the wilderness of Vallecitos both in solitude and as part of the group.

To support a depth of meditative awareness, complete silence is maintained throughout the retreat except during meetings with your teachers and group discussion.

This workshop is appropriate for beginners and experienced meditators who are curious about meditation, mindfulness and how to deepen your insight practice and open your connection to the mystery of the natural world.  Be prepared for unexpected delight, mystery, silence and illumination.