During this silent retreat, we will cultivate what the Buddha called "the immeasurable states of heart and mind" – the
or Divine Abodes. These are the qualities of love, compassion, joy and equanimity that reside in us all. Our innate lovingkindness will be strengthened and enhanced by sitting and walking practice, discussions and dharma talks. As our hearts awaken, we can discover a deeper sense of openness and interconnection with all of life.
This residential 4-day/3-night retreat, held mostly in silence, is recommended for both beginning and experienced meditators.
Lisa Ernst is the founder and guiding teacher at
One Dharma Nashville. She began meditation practice in the late '80's in the Zen Buddhist tradition, studying closely with two Rinzai Zen Masters and attending numerous mediation retreats. Lisa has also studied and practiced in the Theravada tradition since the late 90's. She has been teaching since 2005 and was given full dharma transmission from Trudy Goodman in 2010 in the lineage of the Thai Forest tradition of Ajahn Chah.
Facility The
Sautee Hereford Lodge sits on a beautiful 350 acre ranch in North East Georgia (2 hours from Atlanta). The lodge has 12 bedrooms, 6½ baths, a full kitchen and eating area, and separated meditation hall. The lodge has full HVAC.
Accommodations You may choose a shared room in the lodge or tent camping on the grounds.
Schedule The retreat begins Thursday evening with a meal at 6pm and ends Sunday after lunch.
Late Arrivals Because many folks will need to work on Thursday, you may arrive until 9pm on Thursday night. Please indicate your planned arrival time on your registration form.
Meals Meals are vegetarian with dairy (labeled). Coffee, tea and snacks will be available during breaks. All participants will have an opportunity for silent work in the kitchen to help prepare or cleanup our food.
Cost The cost of this retreat is $150 per person and includes accommodations and all meals. There will be an opportunity to practice Dana (generosity) to the teacher.
This cost covers the facility, food, accommodations, and teacher expenses. It provides no profit to either sponsoring organization. If we have more than 20 participants, it also will help cover a scholarship fund for those needing assistance.
Financial Assistance We would like for every one to be able to attend regardless of ability to pay. To achieve this goal, we need those who are able to contribute into a fund to help pay for those who are unable. This gives everyone the opportunity to practice generosity together.
All funds collected for this purpose will be divided equally between those who have requested them. You will be notified no later than 1 week prior to the retreat if there are insufficient funds to meet your request.
Benefactors For those who are unable to attend the retreat, but wish to practice generosity to those who cannot afford it, you may make a contribution which will be used for this purpose
here.