Writing as a Spiritual Practice

We are honored to have Writer and Zen Teacher, Sallie Tisdale of Portland, OR to offer this contemplative retreat that merges your inner life with creative expression!

When we use writing as a spiritual practice, we realize that creative work and spiritual orientation feed each other. We also find the courage and freedom to express ourselves from the heart.

This curriculum has been taught as a live workshop and an online class through Tricycle Online Courses. This weekend is designed for both beginning and working writers, and as a creative expression for everyone.

Students will gain a sense of their internal censors and biases and how these limit expression.
Students will explore methods such as echo, repetition, and rhythm by encountering and practicing spiritually inspired work from many traditions.
Students will practice writing in traditional as well as freestyle forms on a variety of topics.

Throughout the retreat, we will alternate between listening to the sounds of traditional spiritual writing,  free writing, guided exercises, and creative writing.  The retreat includes exercises to help cultivate qualities like curiosity and fearlessness, and ways to create work which exudes these qualities.

COVID POLICY ( as of JAN 2025 ):  For your safety and ours, we require proof of vaccination AND negative test result from all visitors to Ratna Ling Retreat Center. We wish to provide peace of mind for all of our residents and guests.

Schedule (Subject to change):

FRIDAY

3pm Check in
5:30pm Dinner
7-8:30 pm  Opening Session

SATURDAY

7am Optional Meditation
8am Breakfast
9-11:30am Morning Session
12:15pm Lunch
3-5:30pm Afternoon Session
5:30pm Dinner
7-8pm: Optional peer discussion or solitary work and exercise

SUNDAY

7am: Optional Meditation
8-10am Morning session
10am Brunch
11:30am Closing session
1pm Checkout

For directions to Ratna Ling - Ratna Ling Retreat Center 35755 Hauser Bridge Rd Cazadero, CA 95421
Accommodations are beautiful lux cabins



ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Transportation to/from Ratna Ling is NOT included - carpooling encouraged
Payments are nonrefundable and transferable to a future Ratna Ling stay or retreat
Each cottage includes TWO private rooms with queen beds, large dining & living area, gas fireplace,
spacious deck, jacuzzi tub, linens/towels/hand soap, kitchenette with tea & coffee, complimentary wireless internet. Towels and hand soap are provided.
vegetarian meals are served during our weekend together.

What people are saying about our retreats:



“The accommodations were great along with the beautiful surroundings - everything was so peaceful and nurturing.”
“It was exactly what I needed – to disconnect, get in tune with my soul and recharge my spirit.”
“I loved having time to myself to reflect on my life and where I am going. Thank you Ratna Ling."


“Space for reflection while also giving me anchor points through teachings.”
“Space and time for meditation and movement classes were truly wonderful.”
“Being able to move at my own pace is a luxury. And of course the food was delicious." Read More