This retreat will help participants connect with their heart through meditation and immersion in nature. Contact with nature offers a place of healing for difficult states such as sadness and fear, while activating our joy, inspiration, and delight. Meditation allows us to feel all our emotions, bringing kindness to whatever arises, while letting go of the stories that so often trouble us. As we gain skill in working with our emotions, we discover a confidence that we can handle whatever life throws at us. This allows the heart to awaken even more deeply, loosening its preoccupation with the small self, and opening to transpersonal realms in which we feel a deep sense of belonging with all of creation.

The retreat is a unique training in mindfulness practice, combining traditional indoor meditation with meditation outdoors. Mindful hikes take advantage of this being the optimal time to enjoy the brilliant colors of fall. The hikes–suitable for all levels of walking–will explore the magical La Manga wilderness, the largest old growth forest in the Carson National Forest and one of the most beautiful areas in the mountains of New Mexico.  When we meditate deep in the woods, we regain our intimacy with nature, and experience directly the dharma teachings of Fall–golden meadows, shimmering aspens, bubbling streams, and bugling elks.

The daily schedule will consist of indoor and outdoor practice, and meditation instruction with follow-up time for questions. There will be small group meetings with the teachers to further clarify the practice. To cultivate the meditation process, complete silence is maintained at all times throughout the retreat. The retreat is suitable for beginners and seasoned practitioners.