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About Dharma Gates

Dharma Gates offers young adults (18-35) a range of immersive introductory experiences to meditation practice in a variety of Buddhist traditions. We offer in-person and online events in partnership with a wide breadth of facilitators and teachers, emphasizing accessibility, diverse perspectives, and depth of training. We recognize and work to dismantle cultural and economic barriers that inhibit engagement with formal meditation practice.

Retreat Overview

This retreat is organized by the Dharma Gates team, and all registrations are managed through their platform. If you are traveling from Tallahassee, please be aware that we expect a large number of attendees from out of town, and dorm space may be limited. We encourage local participants to plan for commuting or camping as alternative accommodations.

In the Chan tradition, there are two main approaches to awakening: the method of silent illumination (mòzhào) and the method of investigating a critical phrase (huàtóu). The former is a settling method of serene reflection on the nature of awareness; the latter is an explosive approach that aims to concentrate and shatter all mental states so awakening manifests.

Apart from sitting meditation, the retreat includes stretching exercises, walking meditations, and outdoor direct contemplation. Participants will also engage in mindful eating and work practices. Daily Dharma talks and 1:1 personal consultations with Guo Gu will be offered.

Retreat practice is an excellent way to deepen meditation by engaging in a focused, sustained environment with guidance from an experienced teacher.

Arrival, Departure & Daily Schedule

Arrival: The retreat begins on Thursday, April 17th. Registration opens at 6:00 PM, and participants are encouraged to arrive early to settle in.

Departure: The retreat concludes on Monday, April 21st at 12:00 PM.

Daily Schedule (April 18th – 20th)

Morning

• 5:00 AM – Morning Wakeup Board
• 5:30 AM – Mindful Exercises
• 6:00 AM – Sitting Meditation
• 6:40 AM – Morning Service
• 7:15 AM – Breakfast, Mindful Work
• 8:05 AM – End of Work Bell (large outside bell)
• 8:06 AM – Personal Time
• 8:25 AM – Preparation Bell (small hand bell)
• 8:35 AM – Sitting Meditation, Mindful Yoga, Walking Meditation
• 12:00 PM – Lunch, Mindful Work

Afternoon

• 1:05 PM – End of Work Bell (large outside bell)
• 1:06 PM – Personal Time
• 1:25 PM – Preparation Bell (small hand bell)
• 1:35 PM – Sitting Meditation, Mindful Yoga, Walking Meditation (Personal Interview)
• 5:00 PM – Dinner
• 5:30 PM – Personal Time (Kitchen Crew Works)

Evening

• 6:50 PM – Preparation Bell (small hand bell)
• 7:00 PM – Dharma Talk
• 8:30 PM – Sitting Meditation, Mindful Yoga, Walking Meditation
• 10:00 PM – Rest; optional meditation