Retreat FAQ

What are the requirements for attendance? Individuals attending a sesshin should have experience meditating and be willing and physically able to sit silently for 10-12 thirty-minute meditation periods each day. (See the "Sample Sesshin Schedule" on our Sesshins page.)

Where can I find dates for upcoming retreats and how can I apply? See the Retreat Calendar for sesshin dates. When enrollment opens for an upcoming sesshin, an "Apply Now" link will replace the date in the "Enrollment Opens" column. Use that link to complete your application. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Can I stay at the Zen Center during retreats? Yes, we offer simple sleeping accommodations, with futons provided for sleeping on the floor. Please bring a sleeping bag or similar bedding, including a pillow.

How do we eat meals and what is served? We serve all meals buffet-style. We eat breakfast and lunch together in the zendo and chant meal verses. Supper is less formal, and participants often choose to eat in the zendo garden after going through the buffet. All meals are awareness practice.

What if I have dietary issues? We offer simple vegetarian food during retreats. Dairy is served separately. If you have food allergies, let us know when you apply, and we will try to provide alternatives, or you can bring your own food.

What clothing should I bring?

1. Clean, comfortable, and modest sitting clothes (please don’t bring shorts, short skirts, or clothing with writing, logos, bright colors, or loud patterns for sitting).
2. A sweater or other warmer clothing for the cool nights and mornings we experience year-round. A rain jacket is recommended during the winter/early spring rainy months.
3. Slip-on shoes or sandals.
4. Work shoes and clothes for possible outside work (shorts are okay for work). Also, bring suntan lotion and a hat if you are sensitive to sun, in case you are assigned outdoor work.

Is there any talking allowed? Retreats are conducted in silence both while sitting and during other activities including meals, work practice and breaks. Some work and activity-related conversation may be necessary, but in general we minimize the need to talk, so if you have a question or need to share some information, we encourage you to use notepads and pens. After dharma talks there is a Q&A period, when you can ask questions and there are also daily opportunities to talk privately with practice leaders.

Do I have to attend every activity? Yes, if you are a full-time participant, we ask that you attend all retreat activities and be on time. If you cannot attend a particular activity, please discuss it with a practice leader or sesshin coordinator first. We do offer part-time attendance for most retreats; this should be arranged in advance.

Are there any breaks? Yes, there are breaks after work practice, lunch and supper. We encourage you to maintain practice during these times, to maximize the value of your retreat.

Can I text or take pictures on my phone? Sesshin provides a rare opportunity to focus inward by minimizing external distractions. Cell phones are best left turned off in your luggage until the end of a retreat.