In-Person and Online via Zoom

July 4th – 6th

This weekend mindfulness meditation retreat will offer a time to pause and reset in our beautiful redwood forest. The retreat will be devoted to experiencing the first Buddhist precept of non-harming, which is the foundation for all peace.  The heart of the Buddha’s teachings is cultivating wisdom and compassion. This is developed through the cultivation of non-harming thoughts, words, and actions.

In the Rhinoceros Horn Discourse, the Khaggavisana Sutta, the Buddha says: “Renouncing violence for all living beings, harming not even a one…” 

Within this retreat we will have time to reflect upon living a life of non-harm and what can support us to live more fully in alignment with this. Retreat attendees will be guided on a journey of self-discovery, exploration, and understanding of the first precept as it pertains to all beings.  We will offer silent periods of sitting and walking meditation as well as time for discussion. Each day there will be a talk and meditation instruction on the four foundations of mindfulness. These teachings and practices will emphasize quieting the mind, opening the heart, and developing clarity, wisdom, and compassion.

This retreat is supported by the Dharma Voices for Animals, the only International Buddhist Animal Advocacy organization and Land of Medicine Buddha Center.  

Retreat Schedule

Friday, July 4

• 4:00 pm – 5:45 pm Check in (overnight guests only)
• 5:45 pm – 6:00 pm Welcome talk in Dining room (overnight guests only)
• 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Dinner (overnight guests only)
• 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm Introductory Session 

Saturday, July 5

• 8:00am – 9:00am Breakfast
• 9:00am – 10:30am: Session 1
• 11:00 am – 12:30 pm: Session 2
• 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm Lunch
• 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm: Session 3
• 4:00 pm – 4:30 pm: Tea Break
• 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm: Session 4
• 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Dinner
• 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm Session 5

Sunday, July 6

• 8:00 am – 9:00 am Breakfast
• 9:00 am – 10:30 am: Session 1
• 11:00 am – 12:30 pm: Session 2
• 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm Lunch (End of Retreat)

Lodging Options

​​During the retreat, we provide various lodging options to accommodate different preferences. We have a variety of lodging available to make your stay comfortable.

Single Room: Ideal for those who need privacy, each room has an ensuite bathroom. Please note Single rooms are limited and book out quickly.

Shared Double Room: This can be booked by a couple, two friends, or by individuals happy to share with someone else. Rooms will be allocated by gender if you are booking as an individual in a shared room. Ideal for those who like to have a bit more privacy, but have the convenience of being close to everything at the main campus. Each double room has an ensuite bathroom. You would be sharing this room with one other person. The price is per person

Shared Room: This can be booked by families, groups of friends or individuals. Rooms will be allocated by gender if you are booking as an individual in a shared room. If you prefer a more communal setting, we have shared dormitories available. These dormitories provide a cost-effective option for participants who enjoy the camaraderie and interaction with fellow retreat attendees. Each dorm has an ensuite bathroom. The price indicated is per person.

Yurt: Experience the charm of a traditional yurt, offering a unique and cozy atmosphere. These circular dwellings provide a comfortable and peaceful environment for rest and relaxation. Please note that the yurt is located at the Wish Fulfilling Temple. It is approximately a 15-minute walk  from the Lower Campus.

Tent Platforms: For those who enjoy a closer connection with nature, we offer tent platforms where you can set up your own tent. Wake up to the sounds of birds chirping and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings. We have two Platforms at the Wish Fulfilling Temple. Please note that tent platforms are approximately a 15-minute walk  from the Lower Campus.

Please contact Liah at [email protected] if you have questions or requests around lodging.

Meals

All of our lodging options include 3 delicious vegan meals. Gluten free options at each meal. We will do our best to cater for additional dietary requirements.  Please contact Liah at [email protected] to communicate your specific needs with as much notice as possible.

Commuters: Please note that lunch and dinner are included in your program costs. Breakfast is not included.

How to Get Here

Access to LMB is via a small, winding road (Prescott Road) which we share with numerous neighbors. As you are driving to our property please turn on your headlights, go slowly, and be prepared to pull over to the side when you meet oncoming traffic.

Closest Airports: The nearest airports to LMB are San Francisco (~1.5 hours away) and San Jose (~1 hour away). To reach LMB from either of these airports you can use a rideshare app (Uber, Lyft etc), or a shuttle service (Early Bird Airport Shuttle Service). Expect to pay $100 – $150 from San Francisco, or $60 – 80 from San Jose using a rideshare app. LMB is unable to offer assistance in helping you get to or from the center. Please make your own arrangements.

Cancellation Policy

Overnight Guests

If you cancel more than 2 weeks in advance a full refund will be offered. If you cancel up to two weeks prior to the retreat starting a 50% refund will be offered. If you cancel up to 1 week prior to the retreat starting no refund will be offered.

Commuters

If you cancel 1 week prior to the retreat starting a 50% refund will be offered.