Meditation and Modern Life: A Zen Meditation Retreat

Dan’s weekend retreats at Esalen are a wonderful way to start a daily meditation practice—or reinvigorate one you already have!

Our time together will follow a gentle schedule of sitting meditation punctuated by brief lectures, group discussion, relaxing meals, and soaks in the healing baths, all while we explore the process and practice of mindful living. We’ll be listening to our own bodies, noticing the food we eat, and truly engaging with the people around us—all to explore what it means to be fully present.

You will leave this retreat with everything you need to start, revive, or deepen your daily meditation practice. You will receive instruction in traditional Zen meditation and we will sit together in guided sessions, practicing what we’ve learned. We’ll work together on everything from the mechanics of sitting posture to the mental barriers we all face. We’ll discuss how to overcome common obstacles to meditation and the many ways to incorporate more mindfulness and presence into our daily lives.

Both newcomers to meditation and old-hands are always welcome. If you’re coming from the Bay Area, you can head out Friday afternoon and not even miss much work; if you’re coming from L.A. or further afield, you’ll need a leave a bit earlier.

Registration is now open. These retreats always fill quickly and typically have a long waiting list, so please sign up early if you’d like to attend.