Meditation, Embodiment and Awakening in Nature

Meditation, Embodiment and Awakening in Nature
"Our exaggerated separateness from nature creates a deep ache, an emptiness and longing that is difficult to name. This retreat is a healing balm of deep immersion in the outdoors through meditation and silence. When we meditate in nature our minds become open and still and we marvel at the ordinary magic around us – the spray of colors in a field of wildflowers, a dewdrop on the tip of an aspen leaf, clouds scudding across the high peaks. Putting into practice the Buddha’s ancient teaching of meditating outdoors, trees, birds, moose and mountains become our teachers. As a group, we will practice toward greater embodiment and presence. Free from concepts of nature and human, self and other, we become part of the miraculous flow of nature. This retreat will offer a variety of sitting and moving meditations, dharma talks, and an opportunity for personal exploration. All of these practices deepen self-awareness, reveal the mystery of our true nature, ignite profound compassion, and bring us back to our true home. There will be mindful hiking on the land. Participants need to be able to do hikes of one to three miles.”
Venue at Rocky Mountain Ecodharma Center
See website HERE  | Photo gallery HERE  |  Address map HERE

Silence
Every effort is made to support a deep and fruitful retreat, and noble silence is a valuable part of the process. With exceptions for dharma talks and other modes of support, and special discussions, we will be in silence.
Lodging Options - view lodging options here
You may camp in a beautiful campsite, or stay in the lodge.  There are a limited number of single lodging options, such as single rooms, mini singles and glamping.  All the other rooms are shared accommodations.  Contact Kathy at registrar@rmerc.org for any rooming questions.

Lodging Prices are inclusive of all retreat costs

$580           Camping
$680           Mini Single
$680           Glamping
$580|$1,160     RV Camping (single/double)
$680           Semi-Private Nook (single) see details on registration page
$965           Single Room
$780           Shared Room  (2 single beds; cost per person).
$1560         Double Room (see note above)  (1 double bed; cost per couple).

Scholarships
It is our intention that cost not be an impediment to practice.  If you cannot afford to attend without a fee reduction, you can ask for a scholarship on the registration web site, and then pay the remaining amount.
Anyone with financial hardship is welcome to apply and will be assessed based on needs and fund availability. We ask that you request the lowest amount required to attend the retreat, so that we can offer support to as many people as possible. But do not let cost be an impediment to your attending. Payment, Deposits
A non-refundable deposit of $180 is due at the time of registration. Full payment is due 60 days before the retreat start date; you will receive an email reminder before your credit card is automatically charged at that time.
Cancellation, and Refund Policies

If you cancel your retreat at any time, the $180 registration fee is not refunded.
Cancellations received 60-30 days prior will get a refund of half of the final payment.
Cancellations 30-7 days prior will get a refund of a quarter of the final payment.
For cancellations inside of 7 days there will be no refunds.<

Teacher Donations (Dana)
The cost of the retreat is set as low as possible and only covers  expenses: renting the center, food, cooks, insurance, and staff  travel.   None of this cost share goes to the teacher, who is solely  supported by the dana (generosity) of the participants. In the tradition  of the Buddha, teachings are offered without a set fee, keeping costs  as low as possible, so no one is excluded due to finances. In turn, we  ask that your donation be as generous as possible within your means.  Please bring a check or cash. We are grateful for your support.
Infectious Disease Policy
See the complete infectious disease policy here.

RMERC prioritizes creating a safe and comfortable retreat environment. While we don't require vaccinations, testing, or masks, individual retreats might have stricter policies. We recommend wearing N95 masks during travel and self-monitoring your health before arrival. If you experience symptoms, contact the retreat leader and consider adjusting your plans. HEPA air purifiers are available in shared rooms, and mask-wearing is always welcome.
Time and Transportation
into Denver, the airport is about 90 minutes from the center, so you should plan on your flight arriving no later than 1:00pm to reach the retreat center on time. Return flights departing from the Denver airport should leave no earlier than 4:30pm, so you can get to the airport on time. Please do not plan on leaving the retreat early or arriving late. If camping, you might want to allow some extra time to set up your tent before the retreat starts.

Please note that the center is at 8500 feet, similar to most Colorado ski towns. If you are concerned about acclimating from sea level, you might consider arriving a day or two in the Denver/Boulder area before the retreat.
Contact


You will be out of contact with no internet access or cellphone service during the retreat. Please complete all personal business before you arrive. The staff will have the ability to make and receive emergency calls or emails on your behalf, but phone and internet are not available for personal use.
Food and Meals
Three simple vegetarian meals a day will be provided from dinner the first day through lunch on the last day. If you want a snack between meals, or supplemental protein such as jerky or packaged fish, you can bring a small quantity of packaged unrefrigerated food. Tea, coffee and such are available all day long, along with some simple snacks such as mixed nuts and fruit. Please do not bring anything that needs refrigeration (medicine excepted). Excessive snacks are unnecessary: if you need a boost, a little gorp or an energy bar is sufficient for most people.
Special Needs
Figuring menus and quantities, shopping, organizing, and cooking are complex and crucial tasks for a retreat. All meals are ovo-lacto vegetarian with vegan and gluten free options available.  We can accommodate common food allergies such as gluten or dairy, but not food preferences. Make sure to include on the registration form full details of any special allergy or health needs you have beyond basic vegetarian, and we will contact you if they require discussion.
Helper (Yogi) Jobs
Some of the work necessary to support the group will be handled by participants during the retreat. You will be able to choose your yogi job, and will keep it throughout the retreat. Most participants find serving others in this way quite enjoyable, and a great opportunity for practice in action.
Click her for Peter's What to Bring List