Themed retreats

Three times a year, the temple of La Gendronnière organises themed Zen retreats, enhanced with artistic or physical workshops. These retreats offer a unique opportunity to combine the practice of Zen with creative expression, allowing you to discover and deepen a discipline while remaining anchored in Zen practice. Each week ends with a sesshin.

The following themed retreats are on offer in 2025:

• ‘Les doigts d'or’ session in February
• ‘Arts et santé’ session in April
• ‘Esprit du geste’ session in October

These sessions are generally held during the school holidays to enable parents to bring their children, who will be looked after.

The following workshops are on offer, depending on the session:

• Reflexology and other massage techniques
• Yoga
• Qi-Gong
• Shiatsu
• Do-In
• Sumi-e
• Calligraphy
• Ikebana (the way of flowers)
• Raku (traditional ceramics)
• Shomyo (traditional Buddhist chanting)
• Exploration of the voice through massage
• The 34 sounds of Zen
• Cooking in Zen
• Sewing the Kesa, traditional Zen sewing
• Etc.

In addition, a ‘Couture du kesa’ (kesa weaving) weekend is organised several times a year. This weekend allows you to make traditional Buddhist clothing (kesa) or to help other participants in their work, following the method handed down from the Buddha.

Notice to beginners

You don't need to have already practised one of these activities to register. You will have the opportunity to discover these activities on the spot. The same goes for zazen, Zen meditation. An introductory session is organised on the evening of your arrival.

Practical information

To find out:

• What to bring
• Information on dress code
• Accommodation
• Access to the temple La Gendronnière

Please read the PRACTICAL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE