Recognizing Ourselves as Part of Nature: Buddhist Liberation Practices for the Deepest Healing
With JD Doyle and Shelly Graf
September 8 - 14, 2024
In this six-night retreat, we will explore mindfulness of the body through the four elements of earth, air, water and fire, reminding us that we are not separate from but always in relationship to the natural world. Our sensitive bodies and sensitive hearts always belong to nature. This retreat will be grounded in contemplative practices of mindfulness and compassion in partnership with the land. We will deepen our learning through the activities of meditation while sitting, walking, eating and in daily life activities.
This silent retreat is supported by guided meditation, dharma reflections, time for questions and small group meetings. We will be practicing primarily in our outdoor practice tent, as well on the land in nature. This retreat is suitable for both newer and more experienced students of Buddhism.
COVID Safety Measures: Please review our current COVID Safety Measures, which are subject to change.
Teachers
JD Doyle (they/them) is part of the East Bay Meditation Center, serving as Core Teacher for five years, co-founder of the Alphabet Sangha, board member as well as in other capacities. They graduated from Spirit Rock Meditation Center’s Teacher Training, the Community Dharma Leader training, and the Dedicated Practitioner Program. JD began studying and practicing Buddhism in 1995 in New Mexico, and continued at Insight Meditation Society, Spirit Rock as well as in Thailand and Burma. They are committed to celebrating the diversity of our human sangha, addressing the impact of racism on our communities, expanding concepts of gender, and…
Learn more about JD Doyle
Shelly Graf (they/them) has been practicing in the Insight Meditation tradition since 2003. They are a graduate of Insight Meditation Society’s four-year teacher training program and lead residential retreats nationally. Shelly is immensely grateful for all of the teachers and guides, including Mark Nunberg, Kamala Masters, and Steve Armstrong, who have so generously shared the Buddha’s teachings with them and others over the years. Shelly currently serves alongside Mark Nunberg as a Guiding Teacher for Common Ground Meditation Center in Minneapolis, MN. Shelly has an interest in integrating the teachings of the Buddha as deeply as possible into the fabric…
Learn more about Shelly Graf