The Ancient Masters have exhorted their students  “to turn the Mind’s eye inward”. How can we practice properly if we do not truly understand what this means?

Without Right View the ancients have said the wrong practice is like trying to break out when one is trapped between two iron mountains. Yet realizing Right View, only your laughter is needed to shatter the Void.

Gilbert will present the fundamental theory to gain insight into Mind and; will also present the proper meditation elements necessary to sit in “stillness”. These meditation elements are useful irregardless of the method that you are using.

Gilbert utilizes a deep examination concerning  the Chan practice based on years of studying Buddha Dharma coupled with simple and concrete techniques to practice to bring about immediate improvements in the student’s practice. He presents lively and often humorous instruction in a sincere manner targeted to bring insight to

the audience.
 

Sliding Scale

This event is priced on a sliding scale. Please consider paying at the highest rate that you can afford. Your generosity supports Dharma Drum Mountain, staff, your fellow practitioners and our continuous efforts to help people to learn and grow.

When you submit your application, select one of the sliding scale rates below. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. If needed we encourage you to apply for a scholarship , please reach out to [email protected] for more information.

Base:	$450
Sustainer:	$500
Benefactor:	$1000

Any amount paid above the Base rate is a tax deductible donation to DDRC. Your confirmation email is your tax receipt.

 

Retreat Program

Chan meditation methods will be taught in the context of daily life activities, such as sitting, standing, walking, sleeping, working, and eating. Chanting and gentle yoga exercises further harmonize the body, breath, and mind. The retreat also includes daily lectures, meditation instruction, guided meditation, and personal interviews. You can view a sample schedule here.

 

Requirements for Intensive Retreat

Our intensive retreats follow the traditional Chan monastery schedule, starting early in the morning and making the most efficient use of time in concentrated group practice. There are numerous forty-minute sitting periods throughout the day.

Participants should be mentally and physically prepared for the rigors of such a regimen. Therefore, we carefully screen each applicant to ensure sufficient experience for acceptance on an intensive retreat. The requirements are that the applicant has:

• already received basic meditation instruction
• established a daily personal practice
• previously attended at least one intermediate three-day retreat (e.g. Foundation Retreat)