May 24 – May 29 PDT
When our body and mind are one we develop concentration and the capacity to heal and transform ourselves. Rock climbing encourages our mind to be fully present in our body—our muscles, tendons, and movement. In this six-day retreat, from May 24—29, 2022, led by Brother Phap Luu, a monastic Dharma teacher in the Plum Village tradition from Deer Park Monastery, and Michele Lang of Insight Climbing & Movement, we will enjoy sessions of mindful climbing indoors, mindful walking in the beautiful temperate rain forests of Bainbridge Island, Washington, and mindfulness of breathing, eating, resting along with Dharma talks and circle sharing. In this way, uniting body and mind through awareness of physical movement, our physiological state, and our thinking and intentionality, we develop our capacity to be aware of our suffering and transform it into happiness and joy.
The retreat is limited to 15 participants. Basic climbing experience is required, and we recommend that all participants have experience belaying. We require all participants to undergo a belay test or else attend a two-hour belay instruction session offered on the afternoon of arrival day. You may bring your own climbing equipment (harness, shoes, chalk) or use the equipment of the gym.
Arrival for the retreat is at 3-4 pm on Tuesday May 24th, and departure is at 2 pm after lunch on Sunday, May 29th.
Accommodation and meals are at a farm, Coyote Farm, nearby the climbing gym, with simple rustic bathrooms and showers. There are two rates: $800 for double bedrooms or $600 for camping. Note that few beds are available; campers need to arrange for their own tent, sleeping bags, etc. Vegan meals are provided. Transport between the accommodation and gym is provided.
Example Daily Schedule (subject to change)
6:00 AM Wake Up
6:30 AM Guided Sitting Meditation
7:00 AM Mindful Movements
7:30 AM Breakfast
8:30 AM Dharma Talk
10:00 AM Mindful Climbing (Insight Climbing & Movement)
1:00 PM Lunch
2:00 PM Total Relaxation
3:00 PM Mindful Walking in the Grand Forest (or other forest)
4:00 PM Dharma Sharing (in forest)
6:30 PM Dinner
7:30 PM Evening Activity (Sitting, Presentation)
9:30 PM Lights Out / Noble Silence
