6-Day Intensive Retreat
August 3 - August 9
Led by Guo Gu
In the Chan tradition, there are two main approaches to awakening: the method of silent illumination (mòzhào) and 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. This 7-day retreat will deepen your practice, regardless of method, with 30 minute sitting meditation periods punctuated by mindful yoga and walking meditation. There will be daily Dharma talks by Guo Gu, and opportunities for personal consultations to practice. Vegetarian meals will be provided.
Retreat Dates: Saturday August 3, 2024 (6:30pm EST) – Friday August 9, 2024 (12pm EST)
In-person donation: $550
Online donation: $200
Please download the retreat schedule here.
Tallahassee Chan Center
1310 North Paul Russell Rd.
Tallahassee, FL 32301
The Tallahassee Chan Center has a limited number of beds reserved for retreatants in gender-separated housing. Please make a note in your application if you wish to stay on site. We also have camping grounds for those who wish to stay on the 5-acre lot. If you wish to stay at the center before and/or after the retreat, please email us to make arrangements.
The online retreat will be done at the applicants own pace. We suggest that you follow a light schedule as the Zoom link will be minimally monitored. There are currently no plans for personal interview opportunity for online retreatants at this time.
We recommend that you choose a schedule to participate in. Here is an example of three types of practice schedules:
Please read through the online retreat etiquette here.
The first of the six paramitas is the practice of generosity, dana. Among the paramitas, generosity can be the easiest to fulfill; one can reap immediate benefits from it.
After donating, you will receive an email with the application link.
Option 1: You can donate in small increments of your choosing throughout the year. To do this, please start a monthly donation plan above. Any amount you can afford is fine.
Option 2: If you cannot make any monetary donation at this moment, we have scholarships available. Please download this form, complete it, and email it to tallahassee.chan@gmail.com with the title “Option 2 August 2024 Retreat”.