Being Now: How to Navigate Uncertain Times

Join our Senior Resident Teacher Magda Costa from Odiyan to practice tried and true methods of staying present and awake.

In the midst of uncertainty, fear, and constant stimulation, there is still a place of clarity available to you — right now.

This retreat invites you to pause, turn inward, and reconnect with a deeper way of living. A way that doesn’t depend on fixing yourself, proving anything, or becoming someone else. A way that begins by letting go of the belief that you are not enough, that you don’t know how, or that freedom is somehow out of reach.

Together, we will gently explore questions such as:

How present am I to my own experience?
Can I meet discomfort and suffering without turning away?
What would it mean to offer myself a genuine gesture of kindness?
If freedom from suffering is possible, what keeps me from choosing it? Fear? Habit? Doubt?

Through guided reflection, contemplative practice, and shared inquiry, you’ll explore what it means to truly be now — not as an idea, but as a lived experience. From this place, insight arises naturally, and transformation becomes possible.

This retreat is an invitation to step beyond illusion, reconnect with your inner strength, and discover a more spacious, grounded, and compassionate way of being — one that supports genuine freedom and lasting happiness, even in difficult times.

Come explore what becomes possible when you fully arrive in the present moment.

 

COVID POLICY: 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


3:00pm-4:00pm — Check-in
4:30-5:30pm — Tea with the teacher
5:30-6:30pm — Dinner
6:30-8:00pm — Opening Circle

Saturday


8:00am-9:00am — Breakfast
9:00am-10:30am — 1st session
11:00am-12:15pm — 2nd session
12:15pm-1:00pm — Lunch
1:00pm-4:30pm — Quiet Time- Optional massage and wellness treatments by appointment
4:30pm-5:30pm — 3rd session
5:30pm-6:30pm — Dinner
6:30-8:00pm — Video presentation and discussion

Sunday


8am-9:00am — Morning practice
9:15am-10:00am — Closing Circle
10:00am-11:00am — Brunch
12:00pm — 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
All bookings are NON-REFUNDABLE. Should you wish to cancel your stay with us, Ratna Ling Retreat Center requires 30 days' notice for a full credit to be TRANSFERRED to a future retreat within 1 year of original booking.
Each cottage includes TWO private rooms with queen beds, large dining & living area, gas fireplace, spacious deck, jetted bathtub, linens/towels/hand soap, kitchenette with tea & coffee, complimentary wireless internet. 
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.”
"The food was amazing and nourishing! Fresh bread and full salad bars! And of course, the lodging and the people were so welcoming."


“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."