In perhaps every religious and mystical tradition, meditating and gathering together in the wilderness was considered one of the most conducive situations for spiritual growth. Amid all the turbulence of our world, I’m delighted to once again gather an intimate group of dedicated seekers for a long weekend in the sublime tranquillity of the deep woods.

This 4-night silent meditation and Yoga retreat is for experienced practitioners of Yoga and meditation, meaning that students should be able to take themselves through simple practices of both meditation and postural Yoga without external guidance.

We will focus this year on the body of heart practices known as brahmavihāra, or Divine Abidings, using the ancient instructions given in the Pāli discourses rather than the better-known instructions from the later traditions. The form of this ancient practice is to “radiate” the quality of love methodically in each of the compass directions, filling the body, and all of space, with it. As a contrast to the method of repeating phrases, this is an internally silent practice, supporting the aspect of meditative stillness known as samatha, or tranquillity, an aspect of samādhi, states of luminous immersion and inner focus.

To support this approach to mettā practice, we will ground our practice in the method of mindfulness of breathing known as the full-body breath, and the Haṭha Yoga Sadhana movement practice, including gentle energy work with prānāyāma and bandha, and the Open Circle ritual from Authentic Movement.

These approaches weave into each other beautifully, joining together to unwind energy and breath through the body, and through the circle of benevolent community, making space for the heart full of love to radiate forth. Join us for immersion in this divine maṇḍala of practices!

For details on the retreat structure we’ll use, including how we work with silence, self-guided practice, chanting, and movement, read more here. And please reach out if you have questions about any aspect of the retreat or practice.