This retreat combines insight meditation (vipassana) and the teachings of nature. We will follow the usual schedule of sitting and walking meditation, but we will do most of our practice outside in a specially prepared meadow on the Spirit Rock land. Our meditations will make use of traditional Buddhist meditation practices, but bring them to focus on exploring our nature "as" nature. As we experience ourselves as part of the wider web of earth life and biological evolution, our lives gain meaning and we find a new sense of enchantment and connection with the world.
The retreat sessions will include guided meditations on: the body as composed of natural elements; the evolutionary origin of thoughts and emotions; death and dying; and the mystery of consciousness. The majority of the retreat will be held in silence. Students will want to bring an extra outdoor blanket and extra cushions to sit on. | 
