Teachers:
Steven Harper and Don Usner
Date:
July 16-21, 2011
Description:
In this retreat at the remote Vallecitos Mountain ranch in northern New Mexico we will explore the ancient art of walking in nature as a kind of contemporary pilgrimage. Most of the world’s wisdom traditions, including those of the indigenous people of northern New Mexico, use some form of pilgrimage as part of spiritual practice, but contemporary western culture rarely integrates walking into contemplative life. We will take advantage of the wild landscape of Vallecitos to launch a dynamic inquiry into inner and outer nature while celebrating the sacred aspect of the journey itself, where meaning lies in each new moment of simply walking and simply being.
Our time at Vallecitos will begin with a discussion of the concept of pilgrimage in local cultures and in others around the globe. We will introduce basic principles of meditation, walking and movement awareness, and will take time each day to practice these in the meditation hall at the main lodge. As we journey forth on a mindful day hikes these ancient practices will inform our exploration of the wild beauty around Vallecitos and the wild nature of the internal landscape. We will focus on the place itself as a teacher, noting and discussing aspects of natural and cultural history in the rugged mountains, long an important spiritual homeland to Jicarilla, Pueblo and Hispanic people. On the wilderness trails around Vallecitos, among groves of old-growth pines, out in stunning mountain meadows, and along the banks of the sparkling and pristine Vallecitos river, we will integrate an eclectic mix of natural history interpretation, meditation practice, silence and instruction.
On this contemplative journey through the wilds of northern New Mexico, each step will be the goal as we discover inner gems to bring back from pilgrimage as gift to our greater community. We will have the ranch to ourselves for our five-day sojourn, and single occupancy rooms will allow personal time in the evenings for integrating the experience. Be prepared for invigorating activity and the opportunity to simply sit still in quiet reflection at the ranch and out on the trails.
Registration & Cost:
The cost of the retreat is $875. The fee will include meals, accommodation and tuition.
Deposit: A 50% deposit is due when registering. Your balance is due by June 15, 2011.
Shuttle service is available for this retreat.
Arrival and Schedule: Check-in is between 3:00-5:00 pm on the first day of the retreat. Please do not arrive earlier than 3:00 PM. The retreat will end at 8:30 am on the last day of the retreat.
Cancellations. Late cancellations are costly and mean that others cannot attend the retreat. If you cancel 45 or more days prior to your retreat we charge a $50 administrative fee. If you cancel less than 45 days before the retreat, you will be responsible for half of your retreat fees. All refund requests must be faxed to the Registrar at 575-751-4038. If you withdraw less than 10 business days before the start of your retreat, you will not receive a refund or transfer option.
Transfers. To transfer from one retreat to another, you must notify Vallecitos at least 10 business days before the original retreat. There is a $50 fee per transfer, and no more than two transfers will be accepted. Prior to the start of the retreat, you may designate another person to attend in your place; there is no fee for this.
Teacher Biographies:
Steven Harper is a wilderness guide, author, consultant, and artist. He has led both traditional and experimental wilderness expeditions and workshops internationally for over 30 years. A frequent long-time leader at Esalen Institute he has an MA in psychology and his work focuses on wild nature as a vehicle for awakening. Visit www.stevenkharper.com.
Don Usner is a writer, photographer and New Mexico native who focuses on natural and cultural history. His books include The Natural History of Big Sur, Sabino’s Map: Life in Chimayo’s Old Plaza, and Valles Caldera: A Vision for New Mexico’s Newest National Preserve. www.donusner.com
