Each day of this retreat, we will put our attention on the cultivation and experience of a different source of joy in the practice. We will explore using these shades of joy to face and resolve the dukkha and challenges of life and also help us to awaken.

The joy of entering the sanctuary
The joy of seclusion
The joy of goodness
The joy of immersion
The joy of enthusiasm
The joy of tranquility
The joy of having faced down suffering
The joy of equanimity
The joy of letting go of everything

The Buddha taught about how different kinds of joy arise in succession towards samādhi and insight. As we practice together, we will rely on suttas from the Pali Canon as a basis for this exploration.

We will use Noble Silence as a support, as well as the Eight Precepts with the option for a light supper (Seven Precepts). The retreat will include meditation guidance, Dhamma talks, Q&R, practice meetings with the teachers and Chi Gong offered by Grace Talice Lee.

This retreat is appropriate for intermediate and experienced meditators. Its format is designed to give those who want more structure the framework and support they need, and to give seasoned practitioners the freedom and flexibility to guide their own schedule.

EXPERIENCE PREREQUISITE:  Successful completion of at least three residential, 6-day, silent, Buddhist meditation retreats.

Partial attendance is not offered on this retreat. Additionally, please consider attending this retreat only if your current life circumstances allow you to engage in an important modern renunciation practice of staying offline and off phone/text during the entire course of the retreat (some exceptions related to pressing family situations may be granted.)