Half-Day Meditation Retreat
Step away from the pace of the city for a period of sustained meditation—without having to leave the city to go on retreat.
This Half-Day Retreat offers a structured, supportive morning of continuous practice: sitting meditation, walking meditation, and mindful movement. It is rooted in the Dharma Drum lineage of Chan Master Sheng Yen—a rigorous yet modern approach to Chan (more commonly known as Zen). Participants are asked to arrive on time and remain for the full session.
Offered monthly, this retreat is for those building a regular meditation practice and seeking something more sustained than a weekly group sitting. It is a natural next step for anyone who has attended our regular meditation sessions or completed our Beginner's Meditation Class.
About the teacher
Chang Yuan Fashi is a meditation teacher and Director of the Dharma Drum Retreat Center. Ordained in 2006, he has spent many years teaching meditation, leading retreats, and supporting practitioners in Taiwan, Canada, and the United States.
Requirements & What to Expect
Out of respect for all participants and the teacher, we ask that everyone commit to the full session. Late arrivals and early departures are disruptive to the group's practice.
Please plan to silence your phone and watch. We ask for these 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. Refrain from wearing perfumes, colognes, or strong-smelling lotions.
This retreat is suitable for those with prior meditation experience. If you are new to meditation, we warmly invite you to join our weekly group meditation sessions or our Beginner's Meditation Class (BMC) first, which offers a full-day introduction to the foundations of Chan practice.
What to Bring
To help reduce waste, please bring your own water bottle or travel thermos.
A light jacket or wrap in case the 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 free of charge. If you'd like support us, please consider making a donation.