Touching the Earth: A NatureDharma Retreat

On this month-long retreat, we will have the opportunity to connect our dharma practice with the natural world. The Buddha practiced, became enlightened, taught, lived, and died outdoors—and throughout history, Buddhist practice has been intimately connected to the natural world as a teacher, a place of practice, and a refuge. Fundamental to our time together is the understanding that through mindfulness and presence, the natural world can be our teacher. Our sitting, walking, dharma talks, and instruction will be outside.

The forest, the meadows, and the open sky will be our meditation hall. You will have the opportunity to practice while sitting on a bench near others on the Forest Refuge’s decks, or to find a quiet place along the extensive trails to practice alone in the woods. When weather conditions are less supportive, we will sit in the meditation hall. The instructions and dharma talks will provide context, invitation, and skillful means for deepening your nature practice. Support and guidelines will be offered to address concerns about the challenges of practicing outside.