Dharma Dharma: The Unfolding of Nature (approved registrations only)

Camping – A Monastic Practice 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.

“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.

This retreat will be held in accordance with the Eight Precepts (which includes not eating after the midday meal, with the exception of certain “allowables.”). Vegetarian breakfast and lunch will be offered with no dinner provided. PLEASE NOTE: For those who will need to eat after midday, you may bring your own provisions and store them on campus.

What past participants have to say:

Dharma Dharma offered an unprecedented opportunity to interact with the teacher as a fellow person and sangha member. The emphasis on monastic practice as a sangha, and the resulting felt sense of camaraderie, created a special experience that balanced community with discipline within the practice.

The camping, the open schedule, the teaching style and technique were excellent, also the fact that we had a campfire and talked to each other about our experience. It created a connection and feeling of community that really supported the practice.

What to expect: 

• Designated camping spots in nature—first come, first choice.
• Bring your own camping gear or arrange for a rental from BBRC before you arrive.
• Only two simple vegetarian meals (breakfast and lunch) will be provided.
• Dharma talks, instruction, and ample time for practice in nature will be available.
• Mindful morning walk to the dining hall for breakfast, inspired by the traditional alms round of monks.

The retreat will feature a unique practice approach. We kindly ask you to be receptive to the teachings offered throughout the retreat.

Application Process

All participants must first apply to join this retreat. Applications will be reviewed within 14 days of submission. Some may require a follow-up conversation with Lienchi.

Prerequisite: 

Attended three 7-day (or longer) silent Vipassana retreats, which includes at least one week of retreat in the style of Sayadaw U Tejaniya or with teacher permission.

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.

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.