RETREAT POSTPONED SMS Awakening Activism: A Dharma Response to Gaza

RETREAT POSTPONED

Sacred Mountain Sangha in collaboration with Rocky Mountain Ecodharma

Amidst the stark realities of our times, the need for a more resilient, transparent, engaged, and collaborative Dharma culture has been illuminated by the destruction of Gaza. This retreat emerges as a response to this need as a contribution toward its realization. Inspired by the interventions of the Buddha to stop wars and the courageous stands of spiritual movements against political injustices throughout history, we recognize a moral imperative to act and to resist the descent into chaos and the normalization of mass atrocities and extreme violence.

Through an integration of Dharma teachings, psycho-spiritual practices, and healing modalities, this retreat offers a sacred space to navigate the depths of our collective grief, rage, and overwhelm. Rooted in devotional chanting, ceremony, prayer, and heartfelt dialogue, we will cultivate mindful engagement guided by the compassionate durability of the Bodhisattva vows.

Central to our focus is the creation of a compassionate and safe container within which to explore the profound impacts of Gaza on both personal and collective levels. Where needed, affinity groups provide additional spaces for deeper reflection. Collective rituals connected to Pachamama, the great Spirit of Earth, will also support our journey toward healing and transformation.

We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and identities. Participants are encouraged to come with an open heart and mind, ready to engage authentically in this exploration. Following the retreat, participants will have access to ongoing support networks, online communities, and additional resources to continue our collective journey of inner and outer transformation.

Join us as we co-create a Dharma culture capable of meeting the world’s challenges with resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice, healing, and mutual liberation

Lodging Options – view lodging options here

You will stay in the lodge for this retreat, camping is not available.  There are a limited number of single lodging options, such as single rooms, mini singles and glamping.  All the other rooms are shared accommodations.  Contact Kathy at registrar@rmerc.org for any rooming questions.

Lodging Prices are inclusive of all retreat costs

$490            Mini Single
$490            Glamping
$420|840   RV Camping (single|double)
$490            Semi-Private Nook (single)
$700            Single Room
$565            Shared Room  (2 single beds; cost per person).
$1230          Double Room  (1 double bed; cost per couple).

Scholarships

It is our intention that cost does not impede practice.  If you cannot afford to attend without a fee reduction, you can ask for a scholarship on the registration website, and then pay the remaining amount. Anyone with financial hardship is welcome to apply and will be assessed based on needs and fund availability. We ask that you request the lowest amount required to attend the retreat so that we can offer support to as many people as possible. But do not let cost be an impediment to your attendance.

Payment, Deposits

A non-refundable deposit of $120 is due at the time of registration. Full payment is due 60 days before the retreat start date; you will receive an email reminder before your credit card is automatically charged at that time.

Cancellation, and Refund Policies

If you cancel your retreat at any time, the $120 registration fee is not refunded.
Cancellations received 60-30 days prior will get a refund of half of the final payment.
Cancellations 30-7 days prior will get a refund of a quarter of the final payment.
For cancellations inside of 7 days there will be no refunds.

Teacher Donations (Dana)

The cost of the retreat is set as low as possible and only covers  expenses: renting the center, food, cooks, insurance, and staff  travel.   None of this cost share goes to the teacher, who is solely  supported by the dana (generosity) of the participants. In the tradition  of the Buddha, teachings are offered without a set fee, keeping costs  as low as possible, so no one is excluded due to finances. In turn, we  ask that your donation be as generous as possible within your means.  Please bring a check or cash. We are grateful for your support.

Infectious Disease Policy

See the complete infectious disease policy here.

RMERC prioritizes creating a safe and comfortable retreat environment. While we don’t require vaccinations, testing, or masks, individual retreats might have stricter policies. We recommend wearing N95 masks during travel and self-monitoring your health before arrival. If you experience symptoms, contact the retreat leader and consider adjusting your plans. HEPA air purifiers are available in shared rooms, and mask-wearing is always welcome.

Time and Transportation

The retreat begins at 4:00pm on the first day, and ends after lunch on the last day. If you are flying into Denver, the airport is about 90 minutes from the center, so you should plan on your flight arriving no later than 1:00pm to reach the retreat center on time. Return flights departing from the Denver airport should leave no earlier than 4:30pm, so you can get to the airport on time. Please do not plan on leaving the retreat early or arriving late. If camping, you might want to allow some extra time to set up your tent before the retreat starts.

Please note that the center is at 8500 feet, similar to most Colorado ski towns. If you are concerned about acclimating from sea level, you might consider arriving a day or two in the Denver/Boulder area before the retreat.

Contact

You will be out of contact with no internet access or cellphone service during the retreat. Please complete all personal business before you arrive. The staff will have the ability to make and receive emergency calls or emails on your behalf, but phone and internet are not available for personal use.

Food and Meals

Three simple vegetarian meals a day will be provided from dinner the first day through lunch on the last day. If you want a snack between meals, or supplemental protein such as jerky or packaged fish, you can bring a small quantity of packaged unrefrigerated food. Tea, coffee and such are available all day long, along with some simple snacks such as mixed nuts and fruit. Please do not bring anything that needs refrigeration (medicine excepted). Excessive snacks are unnecessary: if you need a boost, a little gorp or an energy bar is sufficient for most people.

Special Needs

Figuring menus and quantities, shopping, organizing, and cooking are complex and crucial tasks for a retreat. All meals are ovo-lacto vegetarian with vegan and gluten free options available.  We can accommodate common food allergies such as gluten or dairy, but not food preferences. Make sure to include on the registration form full details of any special allergy or health needs you have beyond basic vegetarian, and we will contact you if they require discussion.

Helper (Yogi) Jobs

Some of the work necessary to support the group will be handled by participants during the retreat. You will be able to choose your yogi job, and will keep it throughout the retreat. Most participants find serving others in this way quite enjoyable, and a great opportunity for practice in action.

What to Bring: Click Here for a What to Bring List