Five-Day Silent Chan Retreat led by Guo Gu

Tuesday June 23 – Saturday June 27, 2026

In the Chan tradition, there are two main approaches to awakening: the method of silent illumination (mòzhào) and investigating a critical phrase (huàtóu). The former is a settling method of serene reflection on the nature of awareness; the latter is an explosive approach that aims to concentrate and shatter all mental states so awakening manifests. Retreat practice is an excellent way to deepen our practice, as it allows practitioners to engage with the meditation method in a sustained, focused way under a protected environment with a retreat teacher.

Practitioners receive guidance on issues or experiences that wouldn’t normally arise in daily or individual practices. Aside from the many periods of sitting meditation, there will also be stretching exercises, walking meditations, and outdoor direct contemplation. There will also be mindful eating and work practices.

There will be daily Dharma talks by Guo Gu, and opportunities for personal consultations to practice.

Week long retreats are rigorous and, at times, challenging. For more information about what to expect when attending a long retreat, click here.

Registration for this retreat begins with an application.

This retreat ends on Saturday afternoon.