The greatest gift is the
gift of the teachings
 
Retreat Dharma Talks at Spirit Rock Meditation Center

Awake in the Wild

Like the Buddha, people for millennia have sought refuge, clarity, and wisdom in nature. On this silent, outdoor retreat in the serenity and beauty of the hills and meadows at Spirit Rock, we explore potent awareness and sensory-based meditations that open us to insight, interconnection, and peace.

On this retreat, we will cultivate a receptive, embodied quality of attention. This awareness supports learning from nature’s teachings on impermanence, the illusion of our separateness, and the interdependence of all life. We will also explore how nature evokes not only profound insight but also brings forth the capacity for resilience and inspired action in these ecologically-challenging times.

There will be nature-based sitting and walking practice, Dharma talks, and group meetings, as well as time to explore the beauty of nature with contemplative presence both alone and in community. Be prepared for unexpected delight, mystery, silence, and illumination.

This retreat is silent except for teacher-led Q&A, small groups, or other practice meetings.

Please note: During much of this retreat we will practice together outside in the company of the natural world. There will be an option of moving indoors if inclement weather should be present. Early morning and late evening practices will mostly be indoors (unless you choose to sit outdoors).

This retreat is silent except for teacher-led Q&A, small groups, or other practice meetings.

2023-05-30 (6 days) Spirit Rock Meditation Center

  
2023-05-31 Remembering we are Earth Beings (Retreat at Spirit Rock) 45:41
Kirsten Rudestam
2023-06-01 Still Flowing Water: Reflections on Nature, Intimacy, and the Power of Accompaniment on the Path (Retreat at Spirit Rock) 56:16
Devon Hase
A talk on the characteristics of anicca and dukkha, with lots of stories about love and nature, fear and compassion.
2023-06-02 Awakening in Nature through Insight into Interconnection and Anata (Not-self) (Retreat at Spirit Rock) 55:41
Mark Coleman
Nature teaches us so many things about the nature of reality, including how profoundly interconnected and interdependent we are with all life. By sensing this directly, it profoundly shifts and dissolves belief in the reality of a separate, independent self.
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