Half-Day Meditation Retreat
Step away from the pace of the city for a morning of sustained meditation.
This Half-Day Retreat offers a structured, supportive morning of continuous practice, rooted in the Dharma Drum lineage of Chan Master Sheng Yen—a rigorous yet modern approach to Chan (more commonly known as Zen).
The morning will include:
sitting meditation
walking meditation
mindful movement
reflection and sharing
Offered monthly, this retreat is a good opportunity for those building a regular meditation practice and seeking something more sustained than ordinary daily sitting. It is a natural next step for anyone who has attended our regular meditation sessions or completed our Beginner’s Meditation Class.
Please note that this program assumes prior experience with meditation. For guided meditation sessions and other beginner-friendly programs, please see our full Events Calendar.
Arrival & Check-In
Doors open at 8:45 AM.
Please plan to arrive by 9:00 AM, allowing 15–20 minutes to check in and get settled.
The retreat begins promptly at 9:15 AM. Arriving early helps us begin together in a quiet and settled space.
Preparing for the Retreat
Out of respect for all participants and the teacher, we ask that everyone arrive on time and remain for the full retreat. Late arrivals and early departures can be disruptive to the group’s practice.
Please silence your phone and watch to support the quality of your practice and that of everyone in the room.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows you to sit and move easily. Please refrain from wearing perfumes, colognes, or strongly scented lotions.
This retreat is suitable for those with prior meditation experience. If you are new to meditation, we warmly invite you to first join one of our weekly group meditation sessions or our Beginner’s Meditation Class, which offers a full-day introduction to the foundations of Chan practice.
What to Bring
A water bottle or travel thermos to help us reduce waste.
A light jacket or wrap in case the meditation hall is cool.
Your personal meditation cushion or bench, if you prefer. Cushions and chairs are available at the center.
An open mind.
Cost
Suggested donation: $25.
All of our events are offered free of charge. If you would like to support us, please consider making a donation.