Meditation retreats typically share a similar format of alternating walking and sitting meditation periods, three meals, meditation instruction and talks, and Noble Silence. Being in silence and stillness, and in connection to the natural beauty of Big Springs, one may experience a deeper sense of knowing and truth as the mind begins to settle.

We also host mindful movement and contemplative retreats that are not silent meditation retreats and they have their own unique format.

Retreats at Big Springs are intimate, with a maximum of 36 retreatants and 1-3 teachers. We welcome all practitioners, regardless off your level of practice. For some, this might be their first time on the mat or cushion, while others have been practicing for many years. We create a safe, welcoming and nurturing environment to explore what this practice means for you, while adhering to a particular format and structure determined by the organizer of the retreat you are attending.

All are welcome here. With the intention to dissolve all barriers that perpetuate the suffering of separation, prejudice, and discrimination, we are dedicated to the inclusion of all races, classes, sexual orientations, gender identities, ages, abilities, cultures, ethnicities, and other social identities. You do not have to be a Buddhist to benefit from the universal and practical teachings offered on retreat.

Insight Meditation retreats are typically conducted in Noble Silence with occasional practice meetings that involve talking as well as daily instruction and talks provided by the teacher(s).

As mentioned above, other retreats have their own specific format designed by the organizer and teachers. For these retreats, they will inform you directly with information of what to expect and the format.

Below is an example of a schedule from a traditional Insight meditation retreat. Please note that the exact schedule is determined by the particular retreat you are attending. If you have questions about your retreat, please reach out to the retreat organizer.

5:45 Wake-up
6:15 Sitting Meditation
7:00 Breakfast & Morning Work Meditation
8:30 Meditation Instructions & Sitting
9:30 Walking Meditation
10:15 Sitting
11:00 Walking
11:30 Sitting
12:00 pm Lunch & Afternoon Work Meditation
2:00 Sitting
2:45 Walking
3:30 Sitting
4:15 Walking
5:00 Dinner & Evening Work Meditation
6:30 Sitting
7:00 Walking
7:30 Dharma Talk
8:15 Walking
8:45 Sitting
9:30 Sleep or continued practice

The Five Precepts are observed by everyone at Big Springs, including staff, teachers and retreatants.

1.   Refraining from Killing: Aware of the suffering caused by the destruction of life, I will cultivate the precept of not killing, and will not encourage others to kill. In undertaking this precept, I acknowledge the interconnection of all sentient beings.

2.   Refraining from Stealing: Aware of the suffering caused by exploitation, injustice and stealing, I agree not to take anything that does not belong to me or has not been freely offered, and to respect the property of others. I will be honest in my dealings with money. 

3.   Refraining from Sexual Misconduct: Aware of the suffering caused by sexual misconduct, I will avoid creating harm through sexuality, and will avoid sexual exploitation or breaking commitments of sexual fidelity.

4.   Refraining from False Speech: Aware of the suffering caused by unmindful and untrue words, I will undertake the training of speaking truthfully, with beneficial words. I will cultivate deep listening. I will refrain from gossip about others. I will attempt, with kindness and honesty, to resolve any conflicts I have with other people.

5.   Refraining from the Use of Intoxicants: Aware of the suffering caused by unmindful consumption of intoxicants, I will refrain from abusing them, including non-medicinal drugs and alcohol.

In the Insight meditation tradition, work meditation is an important part of retreat practice both for the practitioner and for the center. Through it we learn how to bring mindfulness and care to all our activities and to care for the community. Please communicate any access needs to your retreat registrar in advance of your retreat.