UPDATE: This retreat is full with a wait list. To be added to the wait list, please contact RMERC through the contact form found on the side of this page or email kathy@rmerc.org.

This silent retreat is grounded in the practice of Mindfulness – the capacity to be present to ourselves and our environment. Participants will learn to bring this receptive presence to develop a contemplative relationship with nature. By cultivating an inner quiet and curious spirit we can learn from nature as a perennial teacher. The natural world reveals timeless Dharma teachings that support a natural letting go and a wise relationship to all experience.

Participants will also discover how meditative time outdoors leads to beautiful states of joy, peace, wonder, love and connection with oneself, each other and the larger web of life.

There will be guided nature-based meditations, mindful walks, Dharma talks on meditation and nature and group meetings with the teacher. There will be time to relish in the silence outdoors and to explore the wilderness of Rocky Mountain EcoDharma Retreat Center both in solitude and as part of the group.

To support a depth of meditative awareness, complete silence is maintained throughout the retreat except during meetings with your teachers and group discussion.

This workshop is appropriate for beginners and experienced meditators who are curious about meditation, mindfulness and how to deepen your insight practice and open your connection to the mystery of the natural world.  Be prepared for unexpected delight, mystery, silence and illumination.

Time and Transportation

The retreat begins at 4:00pm on the first day, and end about 1:00pm after lunch on the last day. Everyone should plan on coming in your own car, or with someone you live with. If you are flying into Denver, the airport is about 90 minutes from the center, so you should plan on your flight arriving no later than 1:30pm to reach the retreat center on time. Return flights departing from the Denver airport should leave no earlier than 4pm, so you can get to the airport on time. Please do not plan on leaving the retreat early. As everyone will be camping, you might want to allow some extra time to set up your tent before the retreat starts.

Please note that the center is at 8500 feet, similar to most Colorado ski towns. If you are concerned about acclimating from sea level, you might consider arriving a day or two in the Denver/Boulder area before the retreat.

Contact

You will be out of contact with no internet access or cellphone service during the retreat. Please complete all personal business before you arrive. The staff will have the ability to make and receive emergency calls or emails on your behalf, but phone and internet are not available for personal use.

Silence

Every effort is made to support a deep and fruitful retreat, and noble silence is a valuable part of the process. With exceptions for dharma talks and other modes of support, and the special discussions and exercises the first week, we will be in silence.

Lodging Options

This retreat is mostly a camping retreat. However, a limited number of rooms will be available in the lodge for those who have proof of a Covid vaccination. All lodge rooms are for single individuals or couples already living together.

NOTE: Proof of completed Covid Vaccination is required for all indoor lodging. We must receive documentation within 10 days of the retreat start date. If documentation is not received, we will change your lodging to camping.

Lodging Options:  All lodging is single occupancy (see note below)

• Camping
• Single Room
• Semi-Private Nook (single)  see details on the registration page

Note:  If you are a couple and would like to room together contact Kathy – kathy@rmerc.org

Cost and Dana

The cost of the retreat is set as low as possible and only covers expenses: renting the center, food, cooks, insurance, and staff travel.   None of this cost share goes to the teachers or to the manager, who are solely supported by the dana (generosity) of the participants. In the tradition of the Buddha, teachings are offered without a set fee, keeping costs as low as possible, so no one is excluded due to finances. In turn, we ask that your donation be as generous as possible within your means. Please bring a check or cash. We are grateful for your support.

Scholarships

Requests for financial aid will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please describe your financial situation in 3-4 sentences and also let us know what price for the retreat seems fair and also works within your budget.

Payment, Deposits

A deposit of 50% of the retreat cost is due at the time of registration. Full payment is due 60 days before the retreat start date; your credit card will automatically be charged at that time.

Cancellation, and Refund Policies

Our policy states that $75 of your deposit is nonrefundable, no exceptions. If you find that you cannot attend the retreat, please let us know as soon as possible. There will be no refunds for cancellations made within 2 weeks of the retreat. By registering for this workshop, you are agreeing to these terms.

UPDATE: This retreat is full with a wait list. To be added to the wait list, please contact RMERC through the contact form found on the side of this page or email kathy@rmerc.org.