Blueprint for Freedom: Finding Joy and Stability in Chaotic Times

In this time and culture, it’s easy to fall prey to the illusion that if we cultivate increasingly positive emotions in relationship to our lives, bodies, fellow humans and so on, we’ll eventually be happier. We invest time and energy wholeheartedly chasing happiness and safety, both on the meditation cushion and off—all the while quite possibly inadvertently deepening the very habits that increase our distress. A better understanding of the architecture of suffering, paired with wise and careful meditation can lift us from this confusion and point us in new and more fruitful directions.

In this weekend retreat, we’ll explore meditations drawn from the words and spirit of two beloved sutras* and advice from the great Nyingma master, Longchenpa. We’ll work at the intersection of shamatha and mind/heart training to familiarize ourselves with view, meditation and actions that will help us recognize the spiritual opportunity inherent in moments of chaos and fear.

This retreat is suitable for beginners and yet rich enough for more experienced students. 

*We’ll reference the wisdom of the Anattalakkhana and Heart sutras, as well as Longchenpa’s post-meditation instructions from ‘Finding Rest in Illusion’, working at the intersection of Lojong (Mind/Heart Training) and formal meditation to decrease suffering while increasing meditative stability, ease and joy.

The Saturday schedule is still evolving, but here are the estimated times:

6:00 am – 8:00 am – meditation

11:30 am  – 1:00 pm – meditation

3:00 pm  – 6:00  pm meditation and discussion

7:30 – 9:15  pm meditation and formal tea

Sunday Morning:

6:30 am  – meditation

8:30 am – closing circle

In-person participants must be fully vaccinated including a booster.

The Covid situation is always evolving. Please stay tuned for updated requirements for in-person retreats.

Enjoy a weekend in the delightful natural environment of Great Vow Zen monastery, in Clatskanie, Oregon, or join us by Zoom. For those attending in person, meals and lodging are included in the price of retreat. Details given at registration. Retreat is appropriate for all levels of practice.