What To Expect On A Retreat
Q. Are we allowed to talk on the retreat?
A. All of our retreats are conducted in silence unless otherwise specified. The timekeeper and retreat leaders will speak when they need to direct you. The teacher will be giving Dharma Talks. When other communication is necessary, short handwritten notes are allowed, or you may speak quietly to one of the retreat supervisors.
Q. Do I have to follow the retreat schedule?
A. Yes, if you come on retreat, you are expected to follow the schedule. The environment and schedule are carefully planned to provide all retreat-ants with the best possible conditions for perfecting their practice. From morning till night, you know exactly where you are supposed to be and what you should be doing. This frees you to focus your full attention and energy on your meditation method.
Q. Why are there so many rules on retreats?
A. The rules or etiquette are designed to maintain a harmonious atmosphere in support of intense meditation practice. The environment and schedule are carefully planned to provide all retreat-ants with the best possible conditions for perfecting their practice. When you come on retreat, you are expected to follow the rules.
Q. Is there a dress code for retreats?
A. Wear loose and comfortable clothing suitable for meditation. Elastic-waist pants are most suitable. (Jeans are not a good choice, since they can constrict the waist and chafe the thighs when sitting for long periods in meditation.) Please avoid eye-catching t-shirts, bright-colored clothing, tank tops or shorts and do not wear cosmetics, perfumes or colognes.
Q. What to bring on retreats?
A. Bring your own toiletry items (hair dryer, razor, shaving cream, lotion, shower caps, toothbrush, toothpaste, bath towels, soap, shampoo, personal medications, etc.), bedding (bed sheets and pillow case, sleeping bag and/or blanket). Even Summer evenings can be cool, so warm bedding is important. Umbrellas are provided but you may want to bring a raincoat. A personal thermos cup is recommended although we do provide drinking cups.
Q. Can I bring my own cushion?
A. Cushions for sitting meditation are provided in the Great Hall. You are welcome to bring your personal cushion or bench if you prefer; please be sure your personal item is carefully marked with your name.
Q. What about meals?
A. All meals served at the retreat center are vegetarian with optional dairy products. Please inform us of any food allergies at your earliest convenience. All food is served in Perry House. Food is for sustaining energy during practice and not for indulgence; therefore, no food or beverage is to be consumed outside the dining hall and scheduled meal times.