How long is the weekend retreat?

Our weekend retreats run from Friday at 7:00 PM (check-in starting at 5:45 PM) through Sunday at 3:00 PM. We ask that participants commit to the full weekend to honor the group container and experience the retreat in its fullness.

Where will I sleep?

Lodging is provided on-site in shared rooms (2–4 participants per room). Linens, pillows, and towels are included. If you're attending with a friend and would like to room together, please let us know here.

Are there animals on site?

Yes—our temple is home to three resident cats and one Morkie puppy who live peacefully on the grounds and occasionally visit common spaces.

We know that some guests have allergies or sensitivities, and we want to be transparent:

• Animals are not allowed in dormitories, and we do our best to keep shared indoor practice spaces clean and fur-free.

• We use an allergen-reducing spray on all linens and meditation cushions and run air purifiers in dormitories 24/7.

• However, we cannot guarantee a completely allergen-free environment.

• If you have a severe allergy, please contact us before registering to discuss whether the retreat setting will be comfortable and safe for you.

We understand this may be a deciding factor for some, and we’re happy to help you assess what’s best for your well-being.

What is the daily schedule like?

Check out the schedule here.

Is the retreat silent?

While this is not a fully silent retreat, we do incorporate periods of noble silence (particularly in the mornings and evenings) to support inward reflection. Community meals and some group discussions are held with mindful speech.

Do I need meditation experience?

Prior meditation experience is helpful, but not required. Our retreats are designed primarily for those who have an existing practice or at least some familiarity with seated meditation. That said, we welcome sincere beginners who are ready to engage with the schedule and teachings with openness and commitment.

If you have any concerns about your readiness, just reach out to Sensei Michael and he’ll help you determine how to get the most out of your retreat experience.

What should I bring?

We recommend you bring:

• Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes; layers in colder months and for outdoor bonfire meditation sits

• Clothes for working outside if we have samu (work practice) on the schedule

• House shoes / slippers

• Toiletries

• A water bottle

And what is samu / work practice?

Samu is a physical expression of Zen practice. Also called “work practice,” this time provides an opportunity to work in concentration and movement, connecting to each other and our environment. It may entail cleaning the zendo, maintaining the grounds of One River Zen, or picking up litter near the river. Samu is not about “being productive” but about showing up fully to the task at hand, no matter how simple.

Keep in mind that samu is never mandatory, and it is never about pushing beyond your limits. The heart of samu is presence, not performance. If you have a physical disability, injury, chronic condition, or mental health need that makes certain tasks difficult, we’ll work with you to find a form of participation—or rest—that’s appropriate.

Is there parking?

We are located on a quiet, residential dead-end road, but we strongly encourage you to park on site in the small lot behind the building. Follow the signage to go up the driveway to the gravel lot.

How much does it cost?

For less than the cost of a hotel, you receive an entire weekend of rest, nourishment, and spiritual grounding with lodging included. The full retreat cost is only $250. A limited number of scholarship or work-trade spots are available. Contact outreach@oneriverzen.org to inquire.

I can't afford the full cost. Do you offer scholarships?

Yes. We believe everyone should have access to retreat practice. Please email us to apply for a sliding scale or work-trade opportunity.

What’s your cancellation policy?

We are a small center working to keep retreats accessible and affordable. Please understand that we limit the number of participants each retreat in order to maximize the experience, and each retreat requires significant preparation.

Canceling within 14 days of retreat is non-refundable. If you need to cancel more than 14 days ahead of retreat, please consider donating your payment to One River Zen.

 If you are a Benefactor or Patron member who is canceling within 14 days of retreat, kindly consider making a reasonable donation on behalf of your absence.

Who leads the retreat?

Sensei Michael Brunner is the Abbot of One River Zen and the leader of our retreats. With two decades of dedicated practice, Sensei guides students in meditation and compassionate inquiry. You’ll have the opportunity to work one-on-one with Sensei during the retreat through the practice of dokusan--student-teacher meetings which offer a chance for you to ask questions, share what’s coming up for you, and receive spiritual guidance. Learn more about Sensei Michael here.

I still have questions. Who can I contact?

We're happy to help. Reach out to us at outreach@oneriverzen.org