The Transformative Power of Tonglen (Residential Only)
March 20 - 23, 2025
About this Retreat
Paul Weiss began his lifelong zen practice with Hakuun Yasutani Roshi in NY in 1966; and his tai chi practice with Cheng Man-Ching in 1967. Paul was drawn to Maine in 1969 to, as he says, "wrestle koans and milk cows" with Walter Nowick, one of the first American zen masters, who was now farming and teaching on the coast of Maine. Paul's subsequent broad studies in several traditions—Buddhist and non-Buddhist—have taken him from the Thar Desert of India to the mountains of China, where, during the 1990s, he was certified to teach by three schools of qigong.
Paul founded and directed The Whole Health Center in Bar Harbor, Maine, which, from 1981 to 2023, was the vehicle for his healing, counseling, and teaching work. His counseling work has included communication training for couples, expressive emotional recovery work, and what he calls 'conscious neural re-circuiting." He has elaborated the Buddhist compassion practice of tonglen as a comprehensive 'technology' of integration and healing.
Throughout this time he has offered extended and formal zen meditation retreats, as well as tonglen and other healing and meditation workshops, and his Foundations of Spiritual Psychology training for clinicians. His True Heart/True Mind retreat, offered since 1983, is an intensive and transformative residential program that integrates contemplation and communication practice in a way that augments the awakening power of both. In the late nineties, much of his focus turned to Dzogchen study and practice; and he has been inspired by his long friendship with Anam Thubten Rinpoche since first inviting him to teach at his center in 2000.
Weiss is the author of Moonlight Leaning Against an Old Rail Fence: Approaching the Dharma as Poetry (North Atlantic 2015), a collection of his poems and their dharma commentaries. And in The Dharma of Direct Experience: Non-dual Principles of Living (Inner Traditions 2022) he addresses the nature and context of his own deepest experiences, as well as their indications for a life of integrity, reciprocity, compassion, and openness to reality. He continues to work with individuals, couples, and groups, and teaches a spirituality of ‘human maturity and conscious loving presence,’ which he calls The Blessing Way.
The woods and mountains are still his ultimate refuge, as are his ten grandchildren.
Details of this retreat
Compassion, Integration, Healing
Rising out of the "Great Compassion" tradition of Buddhism, tonglen is an ancient meditation practice that is nothing less than a technical guide and support system for the exercise of unconditional love with regard to others and to ourselves. It systematically helps us to untie the knots, and to pass through the barriers that keep us from exercising our full human capacity to love and to heal. It teaches us how to transcend our distancing and separation, welcome what we thought we couldn’t handle, and to bless ourselves and others with our capacity for loving presence.
We will study and draw on this ancient practice while also studying the mysteries of the heart, and its energetic field. And we will use simple heart and communication practices to deepen the sense of reciprocity and mutual listening within the group.
Please join us to:
Cultivate a grounded, embodied sense of compassion
Practice deep listening and heart communication
Expand your capacity to be present to your own suffering, the suffering of others, and of the world.
Taking time to access an internal sense of grounding – and to explore a bodily felt sense of inner integrity and reciprocity with our own feeling states – we will look at how to build our brave and tender capacity to stay present and to compassionately and effectively embrace our experience – whether of the events and people around us or of the most subtle or painful movements of feeling within us. We will explore tonglen's applications to the integration of our present emotional states; of our "inner child;" of relational conflict and guilt; and, finally, of our capacity to be available to the suffering of others and of the world.
In its broadest sense, tonglen is a yoga of integrating contradictions – and any arising negative or reactive conditioning – in the context of a more integrated capacity for love, availability and presence.
This relaxed but focused retreat format offers us the time, the support, and the safety to learn and to practice this meditative art of embracing our own issues of difficulty or pain (old and new) -- as well as the pain of the world or of our loved ones. And we will take the time to share and be present for each other and for the challenges arising at each stage of practice. We will open gradually into a more integrated sense of presence, a wider field of compassion, and a greater capacity for healing and responding.
Suitable for all levels.
Relaxing and integrative qigong exercises during breaks.
Typical Retreat Schedule
(All times are Eastern time zone)
First Day — Orientation at 6:45 pm. Opening session begins around 7:00 pm.
Full-Day Schedule — Morning meditation 7:00 am; Breakfast break 8:00-9:30 am; Lunch break 12:00-2:00 pm; Dinner break 5:30-7:00 pm. Evening session 7:00-8:30 pm
Last Day —The closing session end at 12:00 pm.
These times are just for reference. An expanded schedule will be provided in pre-retreat information emailed during the week prior to the event.
Important Health Information
The NDF Health Committee continues to monitor evolving public health conditions and trends, as we keep the safety of our Sangha at the forefront of our decision-making. At this time, COVID-19 testing is no longer required. Masks are optional and encouraged if you are at higher risk. We encourage you to stay at home if you are symptomatic to protect others.
Financial Aid
Natural Dharma Fellowship strives to offer retreats in a manner that is inclusive and accessible. If the full retreat cost would create an undue financial burden, we encourage you to apply for a scholarship. Please visit this page on our website to learn more about financial aid options.
Please do not apply for financial assistance until after you have registered for the retreat. If the required deposit would be an obstacle, please contact register@naturaldharma.org.
Cancellation Policy
We understand that personal circumstances may require you to cancel your registration. In these cases, please contact us right away at register@naturaldharma.org. Cancellations affect our ability to offer rooms to others and create additional work for our staff, therefore we charge the following fees to help mitigate these costs.
For cancellations (based on program start date):
> 45 days: 100% refund minus a $75 admin. fee.
31-45 days: 50% refund of the required deposit; or 75% refund if registration paid in full.
21-30 days: 50% refund of total registration cost
< 21 days: nonrefundable
If you must cancel due to an emergency or extenuating circumstances, please contact us at register@naturaldharma.org.
Natural Dharma Fellowship Full Calendar
Getting Here
Directions
From Boston and points East
By Car: Wonderwell is a 2 hour drive from Boston. Take Highway 93 North to Highway 89 North. Take Exit 12A. At the bottom of the exit ramp, take a right turn. When that road T’s take a left onto Route 114. Take Route 114 past Lake Kolelemook (to your right). After going through the small town of Springfield, turn right on Philbrick Hill Road. Wonderwell is at the top of the hill, on the left.
*By Bus: The Dartmouth Coach runs from Boston (from Logan Airport and South Station) to New London (the Wonderwell stop) many times a day, and is a quick, efficient way to travel here. The Coach has wifi on board. Tickets can be purchased online or at South Station in Boston.
From NYC
*By Bus: The Dartmouth Coach runs from New York City to Lebanon, NH. The coach is a direct and comfortable way to travel between NYC and New Hampshire. For more information, see the Dartmouth Coach website.
From the Upper Valley
By Car: Wonderwell is 30 minutes south of Lebanon, NH on Highway 89. Take Highway 89 South to exit 13 (Grantham). At the bottom of the exit ramp, take a right turn. Continue past the Post Office until you intersect 114, and take a left. Take Route 114 for about 4 miles until Philbrick Hill Road and take a left. Wonderwell is at the top of the hill on the left.
*See our website for information on getting picked up at a bus stop.
Accommodation
We offer a variety of accommodations, from dormitories for women and men, to double shared rooms some with private bath, some with shared bath, private rooms with private or shared baths, and a lovely Benefactor Suite at some retreats. We also offer the possibility of camping in warmer months, and all retreats also have a non-residential option, if you are commuting from home or staying at a local B&B or motel.
Suite/Benefactor
The Vajra Suite is a spacious, air-conditioned private bedroom with private deck and bath, furnished with a king bed. This accommodation also includes a separate meditation room with spectacular views of the mountains and a private kitchenette. Available for an NDF Benefactor at $350 per night. By choosing this Benefactor room option and paying at a higher rate, you are supporting Wonderwell Mountain Refuge in our efforts to maintain and improve our historic building and the grounds and to make retreat practice more accessible for all. Thank you.
Private Room w/Queen Bed & Ensuite Bath
![Accommodation]()
This private room selection provides a queen size bed and en-suite bath. There are two rooms located on the second floor and one on the third floor. These rooms can also be used by couples staying at Wonderwell. In that case, please select "2 guests," and the price will automatially adjust to the cost of two "Shared Room w/Ensuite Bath" rates. The second guest will then receive an email with a link to complete the personal registration questions and will not be considered registered until those questions are answered and received.
The queen beds come with 2 pillows, a blanket, and a bedspread. In concern for energy and water conservation we ask guests to bring their own queen bed linens and bath towels. Wonderwell does rent sheets and towels when it's necessary for those flying in for retreat - $10 for bed linens and $5 for a bath towel. Please select those add-ons during the registration process if you need it.
The rooms can be drafty at times; each room may vary in temperature depending on the season. Fans and heaters are in the closet. You may bring anything else that you need for your comfort.We ask that guests bring their own queen bed linens and bath towels.
Fireplaces in bedrooms are not to be used and no candles please.
Private Room w/Queen Bed & Hall Bath
![Accommodation]()
This private room selection, one located on the third floor and one in the basement, provides a queen-size bed and a hall bath. They can also be used by a couple staying at Wonderwell. In that case, please select "2 guests," and the price will adjust to the cost of two people in a shared room with hall bath. The second guest will then receive an email to complete the personal registration questions and will not be considered registered until those questions are answered and received.
The queen bed come with two pillows, a blanket, and a bedspread. Out of concern for energy and water conservation, we ask guests to bring their own queen-bed linens and bath towels. Wonderwell does rent sheets and towels when it's necessary for those flying in for retreat - $10 for bed linens and $5 for a bath towel. Please select those add-ons during the registration process if you need them.
The rooms can be drafty at times; each room may vary in temperature depending on the season. Fans and heaters are in the closet. You may bring anything else that you need for your comfort.
Fireplaces in bedrooms are not to be used and no candles please.
Private Room w/Twin Bed & Shared Ensuite Bath
The bathroom in this private room on the third floor is shared only with the adjacent double room.
Private Room w/Twin Bed & Hall Bath
![Accommodation]()
Private rooms with a hall bath are located in the basement (walkout) of the building, with inside stairs for dining and Meditation Hall access and on the second floor. There are three private rooms with one shared bathroom (one toilet, sink and shower). There is also a sitting area and a kitchen in the basement. This is also the staff kitchen area and we ask that you keep it clean. Please only use the microwave and coffee maker and no other appliances. You may store food in the refrigerator, but be sure to remove it when you depart. If there are people camping in the backyard, you will also share the basement bathroom with them. They do not share any other basement amenities.
Each private room bed comes with a pillow, a blanket, and a bedspread. In concern for energy and water conservation we ask guests to bring their own twin bed linens and bath towels. Wonderwell does rent sheets and towels when it's necessary for those flying in for retreat- $10 for bed linens and $5 for a bath towel. Please select those add-ons during the registration process if you need it.
The rooms can be drafty at times; each room may vary in temperature depending on the season. Fans and heaters are in the closet. You may bring anything else that you need for your comfort.
If you have a favorite room, you may request it in the comment section of the registration form. No guarantees!
Shared Room w/Ensuite Bath
![Accommodation]()
If you register for a shared double room, you must accept sharing the space with someone you don’t know. If you prefer a specific roommate, please mention their name in the comment section of the registration form.
Each shared room in this price range contains two twin beds (couples may want to reserve a private room with a queen bed) and an ensuite bathroom. The bathroom is only used by the two people assigned to the room. All but one of Wonderwell's shared rooms with ensuite baths are located on the second and third floors. Each twin bed comes with a pillow, a blanket, and a bedspread. The room on the first floor is handicap accessible; please contact the registrar for availability.
Out of concern for energy and water conservation we ask guests to bring their own bed linens and bath towels. Wonderwell does rent bed linen and towels when it's necessary for those flying in for retreat- $10 for bed linens and $5 for a bath towel. Please select those add-ons during the registration process if you need it.
The rooms can be drafty at times; each room may vary in temperature depending on the season. Fans and heaters are in the closet. You may bring anything else that you need for your comfort.
If you prefer a certain roommate, please list their name in the comment section of the registration form. Please know, that by selecting this room option, you will have a roommate. You understand that others have various sleeping habits and can snore. If this is of concern, we recommend choosing a private room.
If you have a favorite room, you may request it in the comment section of the registration form. No guarantees!
Shared Room w/Hall Bath
![Accommodation]()
If you register for a shared double room, you must accept sharing the space with someone you don’t know. If you prefer a specific roommate, please mention their name in the comment section of the registration form.
Each shared room in this price range has two twin beds with a hallway bathroom shared with another room. Wonderwell's Shared Rooms w/Hall Baths are located on the second and third floor.
Each bed comes with a pillow, a blanket, and a bedspread. In concern for energy and water conservation we ask guests to bring their own bed linens and bath towels. Wonderwell does rent bed linen and towels when it's necessary for those flying in for retreat- $10 for bed linens and $5 for a bath towel. Please select those add-ons during the registration process if you need it.
The rooms can be drafty at times; each room may vary in temperature depending on the season. Fans and heaters are in the closet. You may bring anything else that you need for your comfort.
Please know, that by selecting this room option, you will have a roommate. You understand that others have various sleeping habits and can snore. If this is of concern, we recommend choosing a private room.
If you have a favorite room, you may request it in the comment section of the registration form. No guarantees!
Men's Dorm
The men's dorm has 3 twin beds and and a bathroom serving only this dorm. Each dorm bed comes with a pillow, a blanket, and a bedspread. In concern for energy and water conservation we ask guests to bring their own twin bed linens and bath towels. Wonderwell does rent sheets and towels when it's necessary for those flying in for retreat - $10 for bed linens and $5 for a bath towel. Please select those add-ons during the registration process if you need it.
Please note: when you sign up for dorm accommodations, you acknowledge the fact that you are sleeping in a room with many other people, who may snore or have other sleeping habits. Please come prepared for this. We have free foam ear plugs available, as well as fitted "snore-proof" silicon ear plugs for which we charge $2.
The rooms can be drafty at times; each room may vary in temperature depending on the season. Fans and heaters are in the closet. You may bring anything else that you need for your comfort.
Women's Dorm
The women's dorm is on the second floor, has 6 twin beds and shares a hallway bathroom with a double sink, two privacy stalls and one shower. The Women's Dorm bathroom accommodates both men and women.
Each dorm bed comes with a pillow, a blanket, and a bedspread. In concern for energy and water conservation we ask guests to bring their own twin bed linens and bath towels. Wonderwell does rent sheets and towels when it's necessary for those flying in for retreat - $10 for bed linens and $5 for a bath towel. Please select those add-ons during the registration process if you need it.
Please note: when you sign up for dorm accommodations, you acknowledge the fact that you are sleeping in a room with many other people, who may snore or have other sleeping habits. Please come prepared for this.
The rooms can be drafty at times; each room may vary in temperature depending on the season. Fans and heaters are in the closet. You may bring anything else that you need for your comfort.
As Commuter
![Accommodation]()
Please ONLY register as a commuter if you plan to attend ALL of the retreat IN PERSON at Wonderwell. Exceptions for weather, etc. will be considered on a case by case basis.
This price for commuters includes all meals and the teaching curriculum. There are many places for you to relax within the building, during breaks. There is a living room on the first floor, 2 dining rooms on the first floor, a large outdoor covered porch extending from the large dining room, a couch on the second floor and a day bed in the hallway of the third floor.
Though Wonderwell cannot guarantee availability or certify the quality or assist in making a local lodging choice, here are some nearby lodging options:
Stay with local sangha members and friends
Grantham: Home of sangha member (with Barbara P)
Springfield: francine.rainone@gmail.com (with Francine R) - May 15-Nov. 15
Wilmot: Home of sangha member (with Phil M)
New London, NH
(15 to 20 minute drive)
Fairway Motel
The New London Inn
Maple Hill Farm
Lamplighter Motor Inn
Inn at Pleasant Lake
Sunapee, NH
(15 to 20 minute drive)
Burkehaven Lodge
Dexter's Inn
Twin Doors
Sunapee Harbor Cottages
Enfield, NH
(20 minute drive; 30 minutes in winter)
The Enfield Shaker Museum
Stanford Bed and Breakfast
Shaker Hill Bed and Breakfast
Shaker Farm Bed and Breakfast
One campground in Lebanon (30 minute drive)
Mascoma Lake Campground
Venue & Amenities
A/C in Rooms
Free Wifi
Spa
Sauna
Pool
Towels
Free Parking
Kitchen
Tour Assistance
Hot Tub
Coffee/Tea
Cafe
Restaurant
Fitness Center
Yoga Studio
Housekeeping
Bicycles For Rent
Located on twenty-five acres of rolling hills in Springfield, New Hampshire, Wonderwell was originally built as a summer home in 1911. Tranquil and serene, surrounded by woods, meadows, gardens, and century-old stone walls, Wonderwell’s stately main building offers a comfortable and spacious setting in which the transformative potential of meditation—for work, community and daily life—can be explored and realized. Recently, due to its many unique features, the building has been recognized as a New Hampshire state historic site.
The house is situated on a west-facing hillside with sweeping views of sky and mountains. On one end of the building is the Great Room, now the meditation hall, which can accommodate groups of up to 100 people. The hall has an oak balcony encircling the room above and two fieldstone fireplaces. Other features of this historic building include a large covered porch for outdoor practice, a kitchen with industrial appliances, dining facilities, 13 bathrooms, and 15 bedrooms of varying capacities sleeping up to 36 people. We have been working tirelessly, with a successful major capital campaign and continuing renovations, to bring Wonderwell into the 21st century, and complete the work necessary to keep this lovely historic building code-compliant, safe, and sustainable.
The house is partially shielded from a country road by majestic, old oak trees, and is framed by well-established perennials, with multiple garden spaces. Behind the house is an acre of open field that gives way to sloping forested land with excellent trail system potential and sites for several retreat cabins. The back of the house faces west toward jaw-dropping, sky-gazing views of Mount Croyden, behind which the sun sets in the evening.
For the many volunteers and benefactors who support Wonderwell, as well as for the people who work there, caring for Wonderwell has become a practice of sacred stewardship. For all of these people, Wonderwell is not just a building; it is a community.
Meals
Menu Types
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included in your accommodation fee. Our kitchen is dedicated to providing local fresh and/or organic foods whenever possible and we enjoy relationships with Kearsarge Food Hub, and other farmers in the area.
All meals are vegetarian, with gluten-free and dairy-free options available at every meal. Meals are served buffet style. Snacks such as fresh fruit, toast and crackers, nut butters, jams, nuts, and dried fruit are available 24 hours a day. Coffee is offered, usually until lunchtime, and hot water and all kinds of teas are always available.
The fee for the commuter registration option also includes all meals.
Verified
Last Chance
Top Rated