Dharma Dharma: The Unfolding of Nature

Camping and Monastic practicing in Nature

A retreat offered in the Thai forest tradition. Participants must submit an application, interview with the teacher, and be approved to attend.
Registration closes August 1st at 11:59pm Pacific Time.

This retreat, inspired by the Thai forest tradition, offers a week of informal practice in community and nature. Led by Lienchi Tran, participants will camp and follow their own practice routines, with opportunities for discussions with Lienchi as needed.

Participants must apply, interview with the teacher, and be approved to attend. The retreat provides access to an indoor common cabin (with a kitchen and restrooms), and meals will consist of a self-service breakfast and a prepared lunch, with no dinner provided.

“Dharma” means nature, and this retreat will encourage yogis to explore their own nature (body and mind) while immersed in the natural world. By living simply, observing noble silence, and practicing in a mindful community, participants will learn to relate to themselves and others in a more loving and sacred way. By walking under a clear blue sky, sitting in the shade of a tall tree, and sharing in Dharma discussions with spiritual friends around the campfire, this experience aims to reset and refresh the mind for a more peaceful way of living.

What past participants have to say:

I loved camping and practicing outdoors and close to nature; this was a rare and precious opportunity. And I loved the evening group discussions around the fire. These fostered connection and intimacy within the group. This was very different from any retreat I’ve attended.

I loved the evening group discussions around the fire. These fostered connection and intimacy within the group. This was very different from any retreat I’ve attended.

What to expect: Designated camping in nature spots, first come, first choice. Bring your own camping gear or arrange for rental before you arrive to BBRC.  Simple, vegetarian meals (self-serve breakfast and lunch, afternoon alms round) and offerings at the center, dharma talks and instruction, spacious time for practice in nature.  We will become more familiar with the working of our minds, and also more wise in how we see and respond to experience.

All applications will be reviewed by Lienchi. Applicants with consistent and longterm Vipassana practice, as well as experience with and study of Sayadaw U Tejaniya’s style practice, are essential for all applicants. 

Space is limited-apply soon to ensure your spot!

Schedule

All attendees should plan to arrive and check in between 12pm-3pm on the first day of the retreat.

There will be an evening talk for everyone and daily check-ins; everyone is asked to please plan to attend these.

Practice time throughout the day will be open and flexible to each individual.

Application Process

All participants must first apply to join this retreat. Applications will be reviewed within 14 days of submission.

WHAT IS A SILENT MEDITATION RETREAT?

Also known as Vipassana, or Insight, this is a retreat held for several days in the practice of “noble silence” with alternating periods of sitting and walking meditation throughout the day. There are teacher-guided sessions and talks, as well as self-guided periods. There also will be interview opportunities with the teachers to talk about your experience. Silence usually begins after dinner on arrival day and ends after breakfast on departure day. All are asked to hold the practice and silence throughout the entire time and to not leave the retreat early, so as to support the fullness of practice. Read more here on what to expect and sample schedule.

GENEROSITY

Learn more here about The Practice of Dana and Donations.

Retreat Cost & Fees:
Registration fees for this retreat support the cost of developing and offering BBRC programs, which include lodging, meals, and staff compensation. Teacher compensation is not included in your registration fees (see below). This retreat is offered as dana-based registration fees (pay at any amount above zero). Full payment can be made up front, in payment plans, or as a deposit. If you’re uncertain about dana-based registration fees, please contact us at guestservices@bigbearretreatcenter.org.

Dana (Generosity) for Teachers (not included in registration fees):
The spirit of generosity is a foundational component to the Buddhist path. It supports the development of lovingkindness and compassion, deepens awareness of our interconnectedness and encourages non-attachment. Learn more about the practice of generosity.

As part of this tradition, many meditation teachers (including the teachers of this retreat) offer their teachings without set fees or compensation. BBRC reimburses teachers’ travel costs and provides teachers with meals and accommodations while teaching, but teachers receive no direct compensation from the retreat center. As a practice of generosity from the heart, participants are invited to offer “teacher dana” (donations-generosity) to the teachers at the end of the retreat. When we all take part in the offering and receiving of dana, we join a large circle of generosity. Learn more about this offering and tradition.

FEEL WELCOME AND INCLUDED: A PLACE TO BELONG

Our intention is to be as accessible as we can, even in ways that we may not be aware of yet. We hope this is a space of inclusivity where people feel welcome and held. For us, it is a practice of consistent attunement, presence and care to our community. However you identify – race, gender, sexuality, disability, mental health, and so on – it is our wish to meet your needs for belonging.

Please consider this about our environment:

• The center is on a hill with outdoor walkways between dining, gathering, and residential spaces.
• We are located at an elevation of 6,500 feet altitude in a ski town in the mountains of Southern California.
• We experience weather of all four seasons.
• We are located about 2 hours from Los Angeles and near 3 major airports. Learn more about getting here.
• We have a commitment to everyone’s mobility needs. Please contact us about ADA accessibility.

See our FAQs for more detailed information on accessibility to our campus and programs.

SIMPLE YET COMFORTABLE, NESTLED IN NATURE

Simple and elegant lodgings to support rest and renewal. Our rooms are uniquely designed to offer comfort, convenience, and simplicity. All of our cabins are surrounded by nature with forest sights and sounds. Lodgings are a short walk from spaces for dining and gathering. See a video tour of a cabin.

Our Meditation Hall is spaciously designed to provide an atmosphere that feels deeply integrated with nature and the surrounding forest. The versatile space is conducive for meditation, movement, workshops, training, and other community gatherings.

Food that nourishes to support healing, restoration, and community. Our organic and seasonally inspired menus feature creative and nourishing vegetarian meals, tailored to support meditative practices. We use fresh and locally-sourced ingredients when possible. Lunch is the most substantial meal of the day and dinner is lighter. Our indoor and outdoor dining hall is open 24/7 with self-service coffee, tea and healthy snack options.

HEAR MORE ABOUT BIG BEAR RETREAT CENTER

Big Bear Retreat Center is exceptional in every way. The accommodations are outstanding, food exceptional, staff very responsive and helpful and the teachers are always so loving and knowledgeable. Just a top notch retreat experience!! – Sheila

I love Big Bear Retreat Center. It’s my dharma home away from home. Everything about it – staff, teachers, food, accommodations, setting – is exceptional. A true gift to the community!!

Big Bear Retreat Center is indeed a refuge. A safe space to open your heart. – Laura