Staying at Great Treee
For all overnight events arrive at the Temple by 4 PM.
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Accommodations
Sleeping arrangements dormitory style.
Women and men are housed separately.
There are no accommodations for couples or private rooms.
Dormitories have single bunk beds, futons, or mattress sets. Please bring your own bed linens, towels, pillows and toiletries. If you are traveling from a distance there are linens and towels available.
Bathrooms are located on each floor of the main building. Water is sourced from a well and is filtered. Mark your toiletries and remember to take them home when you leave.
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Bring a flashlight. There are stairs and steps to navigate throughout the building. If you need special accommodation due to disability, please let us know.
Smoking and alcohol are not permitted at Great Tree.
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Sharing the Space
MEALS: Vegetarian or vegan meals are served. Please email teijo@greattreetemple.org with any allergies or special dietary needs so that adjustments can be made to our menu.
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Before you arrive, please watch Oryoki video for instructions on how we eat meals together.
CLOTHING: Wear clothing that is without graphics, dark or quiet colors and clothing that is comfortable to you for the practice of zazen (sitting). Do not wear shorts or sleeveless shirts. Expect cool nights in the mountains, except in July-August. The buildings do not have A/C. Avoid perfumes, scented soaps and jewelry or items that would create noise or distract others during meditation.
If you have orthopedic difficulties please bring seperate indoor shoes or slippers as shoes or sandals are not worn in any part of the Great Tree Buildings. Bring warm socks or soft slippers for walking inside the house. Bring an umbrella and appropriate outdoor wear for cool, wet mountain weather.
In the Zendo
The meditation hall is furnished with meditation cushions and benches.Chairs are also available.
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Incense is usually burned during zazen. Let us know if you have problems with the smoke and we will make necessary adjustments during your stay.
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SILENCE: Check devices at the door at the beginning of sesshins and other retreats. There will be a brief, daily device check in time. If you need to make an urgent call distance yourself from the building. Please maintain silence and a quiet demeanor during sesshins and retreats.
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More
FOUR LEGGED FRIENDS: We have a resident dog, Stella. Let us know if you would like to bring your dog by emailing teijo@greattreetemple.org. Dogs are not allowed in food prep areas. If you have allergies to dogs let us know.
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EMERGENCIES: Print and fill out the personal information form and bring it with you. Upon your arrival please give us this information sheet.
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If you become ill while you are here please wear a mask to protect others.
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Parking & Travel
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TRAVEL: Great Trees is located about 40 minutes from the Asheville airport. Contact us to see if there are others who might share travel to Great Tree.
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PARKING: After unloading at the top, please park your car in the small, grassy parking lot below.
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Parking at the top is available for people with physical limitations.
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Registration
If cost is a concern register and offer what you can.
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During registration, you have the option to make a payment through PayPal or to complete the booking with 'Offline Payment' and send payment via check, cash, or by exchanging your time and skills.
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Please note that we do not accept credit card payments on site. If you plan to make a payment in person, please bring cash or a check made out to Great Tree Zen Temple.
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You may also register by mail using this form.
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