About Retreats

Retreats & Classes

Great Tree offers a wide range of retreats, including:

  • Beginners’ classes:  Introduction to Zen
  • Days of Mindfulness and Practice Days
  • Retreats to explore practice and creativity; writing, calligraphy, ikebana and  incorporating everyday zen into your life
  • 10 Sesshin per year
  • Weekly practice: Sunday Sangha, n Tuesday Study Group, Thursday Morning Meditation,
  • Retreats  to deepen body awareness, yoga,  & nutrition
  • Retreats for women, families, and children
  • Classes or retreats taught by guest teachers
  • Young Adults Summer Program (college credit available)

Our annual  retreat schedule is intended  to widen understanding of practice, provide a chance to participate in Sangha and everyday Buddhism. Guest teachers may assist and lead classes at Great Tree.  To register look under Programs for Retreat Registration and check our Monthly Events Calendar for dates.

What to expect at a Great Tree Retreat

Programs led by guest teachers may have unique schedule and content.

  • The program may  includes zazen (sitting meditation), kinhin (walking meditation), or body awareness practice and informal meals.  Tea and snacks are available.
  • We ask that you bring slippers or wear socks, leave your shoes at the door.
  • If the focus is on writing, art, craft or body work you may be asked to bring tools or supplies. Please read about current active events under Programs>Retreat Registration
  • Meals are vegan.  Participants are asked to share kitchen duties, cooking or clean-up
  • We ask that everyone begin together.
  • Most events begin in the evening; please arrive 1 hour before orientation.
  • Please be aware that parking can be a challenge; call for instructions in wet or icy weather
  • We do not have accommodations for couples.  Men and women are housed separately.

Dana

Dana means “generosity” and is the practice of giving. In Asian countries giving support for the Dharma (teachings and the pursuit of Truth) is considered a privilege and an opportunity to share in the spiritual practice and the commitment by those who devote their lives fully to the Dharma.The fees for events at Great Tree are kept to a minimum and are used to cover the costs of mortgage, building maintenance and retreat overhead.

Teacher Dana

Teachers who lead activities at Great Tree offer their services on a dana basis and are not given any direct compensation by Great Tree. Great Tree is supported entirely by dana and offerings of our community. We are grateful for all gifts that make practice possible for all who come to Great Tree.

There will be a dana basket for teachers at each retreat or sesshin. Participants are asked to support their teaching and give as they are able to Dharma teachers who teach at Great Tree.

Members may elect to receive discounts for retreats, however there are no membership dues or fees required.

Jasmine and animal friends

Jasmine is our dog-in-residence, she is calm and may join people for meditation. Other dogs are often welcome at Great Tree. However, it will depend on the number of pets in attendance and whether participants who have severe allergies are attending the event. Please alert  us if you would like to bring your companion pet.

Registration

Registration is required for all retreats, classes,  practice days, and sesshins We need to receive your registration  at least three (7) days prior to the event.

Since we have limited lodging, please register early to secure your space. We ask that participants register for events as far in advance as possible to facilitate planning and preparation