Land Care Retreat April 2023

The land care retreat is a tradition here. Expect a combination of meditation practice, dharma talks and discussions, and work with the land as teacher, opening ourselves to kindness and love of all beings. It’s a good introduction to the particular practice of Mountains and Waters Alliance, also a gentle introduction to Zen practice and a time to settle in with the land. There will be free time for walking outdoors or sitting by the fire.

We’ll begin Friday evening with introductions, introductory dharma talk, and discussion. Saturday morning will include sitting meditation, dharma talk, and breakfast. After lunch we’ll do our work project, engaging with the work in a spiritual manner, learning from the land and beings, with a break before supper. Evening will include more meditation and dharma conversation. Sunday combines the same components, ending with a closing circle.

The retreat includes meals and optional simple lodging, requires a fee, and definitely requires registration (see below).

We’re planning to do garden work, possibly planting the peas or other things in the newly-soft earth.

Fees are $40/day; donations for the teacher are welcome.

For basic information about coming to the farm, see here. Covid safety information will be updated as needed. Currently, we ask you to be in good health, to have a recent test, and be prepared to wear a mask if someone present is vulnerable.