Ordinary Wonder | Weekend Meditation Retreat

July 24-26, 2026

In the middle of ordinary life, wonder is already here!

Zen practice does not ask us to escape our lives or become someone else. It invites us to return to this moment with a more intimate attention. The breath. The body. The sound of footsteps. The light in the room. The person in front of us. The life we are already living.

This weekend retreat invites you to slow down and rediscover the wonder that is hidden in plain sight. Together, we will sit, walk, rest, listen, and practice in community, allowing the mind to settle and the heart to open to the ordinary world as it is.

Through seated meditation, walking meditation, gentle Zen teaching, shared meals, and time for reflection, we will explore how practice reveals the sacredness of everyday experience.

Whether you are new to Zen or continuing an established path, this retreat meets you where you are. No experience is required. Just bring yourself.

This Retreat Offers:

  • A supportive space for renewal and clarity

  • Periods of seated and walking meditation

  • Gentle guidance and Zen teachings

  • Time to rest, notice, and begin again

  • Community practice in a warm and welcoming setting

  • No experience is required. All are welcome!

A Weekend to Return to the Extraordinary Ordinary

We often imagine wonder as something rare, something dramatic, something that arrives only when life is beautiful or peaceful. But Zen practice points us toward a different possibility. Wonder is not somewhere else. It is present in the ordinary activity of this life, before we divide it into important and unimportant, spiritual and mundane, sacred and profane.

This retreat is an invitation to practice with that directly.

We sit. We walk. We eat. We listen. We rest. Again and again, we return to the simple immediacy of experience and discover that nothing is outside the path.

Beginners Are Welcome

You do not need prior experience with Zen or meditation to attend. Instruction will be offered, and the retreat is designed to support both new and experienced practitioners.

From mats and cushions to cozy accommodations, we have what you need!

Embark on a journey of inner radiance and self-discovery as you engage in silent meditation sessions, contemplative evenings by the bonfire, restorative yoga, and insightful Dharma talks. Find solace in the serene beauty of our surroundings and reconnect with your inner self.

See Daily Retreat Schedule
A small silver Buddha statue in a seated meditation pose, placed on a table in front of a painted wall. To the left, a vase with a sunflower and other flowers, and some small objects.
A group of people sitting in a cozy living room with large bay windows, a small decorated Christmas tree, a grandfather clock, and holiday decorations, enjoying a gathering.

From mats and cushions to cozy accommodations, we've got it covered, allowing you to focus solely on being present and embracing this transformative experience. Let the worries fade away as you indulge in a nurturing retreat. Beginners are perfectly welcome. Just bring yourself!

People participating in a meditation class inside a room with large windows and a fireplace, sitting cross-legged on mats.

We practice in community, living dormitory-style in our beautiful meditation center, a Queen Anne Victorian built in 1890, situated on the scenic banks of the Illinois River.

Participants can immerse themselves in nature - taking a walk along the river front or even take a short ride to Starved Rock State Park.

Ordinary Wonder | Weekend Meditation Retreat

July 24-26th

Participate as a resident or a commuter for this journey to experience your True Nature!

PRICE FOR ENTIRE RETREAT:
$249 residential
$149 commuter

See Retreat Schedule

ONE PASS IS GOOD FOR THE ENTIRE RETREAT:

What People Are Saying

“I had the opportunity to participate in One River Zen meditation retreat.  The historic home was very comfortable and all needs were met. Beautiful area overlooking the Illinois river and walking distance to Allen Park. Meditation, discussions and a chance to learn about yourself while connecting to new friends.  
Great experience! “

— Cathy S.

“My weekend meditation retreat was an experience that I would recommend to everyone that has any level of interest in meditation and the practice of Zen Buddhism.  Sensei Michael and Vanessa provide the perfect experience to escape the haste of life, slow down, and explore your inner self.”

— Brian E.

Find Your Spiritual Home

One River Zen is more than a retreat - it is a Zen Meditation Center with all the resources you need to deepen your practice and recognize your true potential.

After you attend a retreat, you can continue your practice with us in-person or at a distance. All of our core offerings are available online, including our transformational classes and regular daily meditation. You can even work directly with Sensei as a student.

A scenic front yard with tulips and daffodils, a wooden garden sign that says "One River Zen Meditation Center", a QR code sign, and a Victorian-style house with blue shingles in the background.
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Interior view of a home featuring a wooden staircase with paneling, a brick fireplace with a large mirror above, and a decorative lantern hanging from a starry ceiling.
Two twin beds with white bedding and padded headboards are positioned side by side, with a shared nightstand between them. Above the nightstand, a window with divided panes and white curtains is illuminated by two wall-mounted reading lamps. The room
A bedroom with a four-poster bed, purple bedding, and a small nightstand. The ceiling has a mural depicting clouds and sky.
A bedroom with two twin beds with black frames, beige bedding, and pillows. The room has green walls, hardwood floors, a white door, and two large windows with white patterned curtains. There is a ceiling fan and a white radiator near the windows.