We're very sorry to announce that this retreat has been postponed, as Jikoji Retreat Center has made the difficult but thoughtful decision to close for the next few weeks to help delay the spread of COVID-19 virus.
We will update this site when we have more information about a future date. Meanwhile we will refund all those who have registered. Feel free to email with any questions.
Be well, and please take care of yourselves.
Beginner's Mind
This annual retreat aims to provide a space to reconnect with beginner's mind - our natural capacity to see through expectations and prejudice and respond to our inner and outer worlds with gentle curiosity and wisdom. People with many years of experience as well as actual beginners are invited to give your practice a refreshing boost, surrounded by the quiet, natural beauty of the Santa Cruz mountains. Meditating together and supporting each other, away from our usual schedule, gives us the chance to go deeper and refresh our perspective on life.
Each day will begin and end quietly with meditation. Mid morning and afternoon sessions will include instruction and guided, mindful dialogue. Weather permitting we plan to spend a fair amount of time outside in nature.
All activities are optional and while we invite you to enjoy the flow of the schedule and stretch your comfort zone just a little, we also encourage you to listen to your body and participate in whatever way is most helpful.
Food Work Periods
Vegan food (with some eggs and dairy options) and simple menus are provided and cooking and cleaning are shared by everyone on the retreat. If you have a preference please let us know in advance.
Free Time
Jikoji is a beautiful place and there will be time to explore the area, hike up to the ridge, and/or just relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Meditation Experience
There will be meditation without instruction in the morning and evening so if you have not taken one of our meditation courses we recommend dropping in to one or two of our Thursday 7pm classes. Contact us for more information.