with Mark Coleman
SESSION DATES: April – June 2025
Session 1: April 5, 2025
Session 2: May 3, 2025
Session 3: June 7, 2025
Session 4: June 28, 2025
*Daily Session Times: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. PT. All sessions are Saturdays, non-residential, and held on the land at Spirit Rock Meditation Center in the Hermitage Meadow above the upper Retreat Hall.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
In these uncertain times, where much of life is lived virtually, it is essential we stay connected to our bodies, senses and to the earth to access wisdom and perspective.
Like the Buddha, people for millennia have sought refuge, peace and wisdom in the natural world. On this nature meditation training program, you will explore potent nature-based awareness and heart based meditations that open you to joy, insight and peace.
During the program, you will immerse in the beautiful landscapes of Spirit Rock while cultivating a receptive, embodied mindful attention. This allows openness to receive nature’s wisdom teachings, including about impermanence, selflessness and the inter-connection of all life. You will explore how nature evokes profound insight, transformation and helps bring forth inspired ecological action.
On each daylong, there will be a variety of nature-based sitting and movement practices, talks and group discussion. There will also be encouragement for home practice. Be prepared for unexpected delight,
Program Includes
- 4 in-person daylong retreats (all non-residential)
- Small groups (optional, self-facilitated – meet in between large group sessions)
- Home practices, readings, and reflections
PLEASE READ: Location, Accessibility Requirements, What to Bring, Restrooms
The entirety of this program will be held outdoors at Spirit Rock in the Hermitage Meadow, located above the main Retreat Hall in the upper campus. Participants should be able to hike on inclined and uneven terrain and trails. You will need to carry all the items that you will need for the day, so please consider using a backpack.
Meals are not included, so please pack a lunch (and snacks, optional) and bring a water bottle. We recommend sturdy, closed-toe shoes with some tread as you may be on and off trails. Our beautiful land is home to turkeys, deer, and lizards, as well as ticks, bees, wasps, and snakes, including rattlesnakes. Note that restrooms will be a moderate hike away, in the Community Meditation Center.