Spiritual retreats summer 2019
Zen Buddhism and meditation practice - Beginners welcome
July 2nd to August 31st, 2019 / Retreats of 3, 5 or 9 days or 3 weeks / Teachings provided by zen masters
( Special rates for 3-week retreats in July )
Summertime is an ideal time for a spiritual retreat. Leaving your daily routine behind to come and meditate in a Buddhist temple can allow you to see the world from a fresh perspective. The length of your stay can vary from 3 days to several weeks (see below).
Daily Schedule
A day in a zen monastery revolves around zazen, seated meditation. Zazen is Buddha’s practice, through which he realized awakening 2 600 years ago. Every day, there are 3 or 4 zazen sessions, depending on the schedule. Zen meditation is done sitting on a zafu (meditation cushion); chairs are also available if needed.
A typical day also includes teachings, ceremonies, meals taken in silence and samu (community service). Time is also set aside for relaxation and socialising.
Beginners
This summer, a choice of retreats will be offered, as described below. Throughout the retreat period, beginners will receive special attention, with plenty of explanations, workshops and individual guidance. Download the booklet for newcomers : HERE
MEDITATION RETREATS JULY 2019
MEDITATION RETREATS AUGUST 2019
Accommodation
Regardless of the type of accommodation you choose, we strive to offer comfortable lodging.
It is also possible to stay in dormitories, rooms 4-5, double rooms or single rooms.
The tents (for those with limited budgets) have beds as well as insulation and an environmentally friendly soil covering made of wood chips. There are some availabilities in individual tents or 2 person tents.
The GendronnièreTemple
The temple was founded in 1979 by Japanese zen master Taisen Deshimaru. Since then, the summer retreat tradition has continued, and practitioners from around the world congregate. The buildings (main house, big and small dojos, etc.) are located in the heart of an old forest with a beautiful pond. The vegetable garden is now managed on the principles of permaculture, and meals are organic.
WHAT TO BRING
For meditation
Dark, loose and comfortable clothes (black, brown, navy blue) and a meditation cushion (zafu).
For meals
Bowl, spoon, fork + approx. 40cm x 40cm cloth (to wrap the bowl) + smaller, 20cm x 20cm white cloth (to wipe the bowl), or oryoki set if you have one.
For daily life at the monastery
May we also remind you that as in all monasteries, we ask you to be modestly dressed.
Bedding
Single top sheet and fitted sheet, pillowcase.
Sheets can be rented on-site (10 euros). For obvious hygienic reasons, sheets and pillowcases are mandatory, even if you use a sleeping bag.
Forgot something ?
A shop is available on-site.
The flyer to download.
Online registration, see HERE
VIDEO : Summer retreats / Zen meditation - temple La Gendronnière