Awake in the Wild: Exploring Wisdom and Awakening in Nature

Note: we have 1 casita, 1 yurt, and 4 tent camping spots for this retreat if you are able to bring your own tent and camping gear.  All scholarships have been awarded for this retreat.

This retreat will be spent meditating entirely outdoors in the natural beauty and mystery here at Vallecitos Mountain Retreat Center. 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 our inner and outer landscapes. 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. The natural world reveals timeless Dharma teachings that support a natural letting go and a wise relationship to all experience.

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. Also revealed are timeless insights into essential truths of life that can be a profound support for awakening

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

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

This retreat is appropriate for experienced meditators who are curious about meditation outdoors. You need to have sat at least one five-day silent mindfulness retreat prior to attending. On this journey, you will learn how to deepen your insight practice and to cultivate the conditions for awakening within the wisdom of the natural world.  Be prepared for unexpected delight, awe, mystery, and illumination.

Prerequisite: Practitioners must have at least one five-day silent mindfulness retreat.

Cancellation Policy:

• 45 days prior to retreat: Full refund, minus a $150 nonrefundable fee
• 44-22 days prior to retreat: 50% refund
• 0-21 days prior to retreat: No refund