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Some programs are held in person and online. Check the calendar for details. Before attending read the full protocol here.

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Retreats


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Upcoming Events
Upcoming Retreats

About Retreats


Retreats offer a unique opportunity for immersion in the practice and teachings of Buddhism. White Heron Sangha is grateful to be able to offer weekend or daylong retreats taught by dharma teachers from outside the community. These invited teachers represent diverse lineages and schools of Buddhism.

How Does a Retreat Work?

Retreats are held in a group setting, either in person or on Zoom, usually for one or two days on a weekend. During the retreat, teachers may offer meditation instruction, dharma talks, question and answer periods, and sometimes individual or group practice meetings. There may be periods of silence, sitting meditation and walking meditation. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions offered in order to receive the greatest benefit and out of respect for the teacher.

In-Person Retreat Tips

Tea and light snacks may be provided at break and lunch periods during in-person retreats. To lessen the footprint on the environment, participants are encouraged to bring their own cups or mugs. Cups will be available for those who do not bring their own.

No dogs are allowed in the building except for trained service dogs in ADA-specified service. Emotional support, therapy, comfort, or companion animals are not considered service animals and are not permitted in the meditation center. All service dogs, while on-site, must remain at all times with their human who needs their service.
Past Visiting Retreat Teachers

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Visiting Retreat Teachers
In-person meetings are held in a fragrance-free environment.  All participants are asked to refrain from applying any strong smelling products before coming to the retreat. Air fresheners and scented or allergenic flowers will not be used in the facility. Your cooperation is appreciated.

Zoom Retreat Tips

Advance planning for an online retreat can help limit distractions. Ahead of the retreat, find a quiet spot with internet access where you can be comfortable. Include family members in planning so that they understand the schedule, need for space, and how they may be of support.

During the retreat, the Zoom room should be considered to be a shrine room just as if you are at an in-person retreat. Eating and moving around in front of the camera are strongly discouraged. It is best to turn off video if your full attention cannot be given to the virtual retreat room.

Retreat Fee and Dāna (Donations)

The retreat registration fee covers the expenses involved in putting on the event, including bringing the teacher to the area for in-person retreats. There are often opportunities for volunteering for those for whom the fee would be excessive. The teachings are offered freely – none of the registration fee is given to the teacher.

In gratitude for the teachings and to support the teacher, you may choose to make a donation directly to the teacher. Details on how to donate to the teacher are provided at the retreat. Retreat fees are kept to a minimum so that the participant can be truly generous with a donation to the teacher. In addition, there is opportunity to support the work of White Heron Sangha through donations and volunteer positions.