Mindful Living Weekend

“Attending to Joy and Happiness”

The theme for this event will be reflected in the guided meditations and teachings on the importance of cultivating wholesome capacities in our daily life, and not leaving our joy and happiness to chance.

On the third weekend of the month we are open for guests to practice at Morning Sun, you can join for the whole Mindful Living Weekend (Fri evening through Sunday), or for just the Day of Quiet Renewal (Saturday), or just the Day of Mindfulness (Sunday). There is also a gathering for the Order of Interbeing for Order members and aspirants on Sunday afternoon.

We have set up a registration form that aims to support the different options for participation.

• Mindful Living Weekend Friday 7pm-Sunday 2pm  (there is a Saturday morning arrival option too) An opportunity to practice slowing down and returning to ourselves with gentle care, to practice mindfulness with the resident community and to enjoy the beautiful grounds of Morning Sun. The program begins with arrival after dinner for sitting meditation on Friday evening. Wake in the morning to a quiet breakfast before the Day of Meditation and Renewal program. On Saturday night enjoy community dinner and evening practice with a Tea Meditation (Happiness Gathering). Then wake for breakfast on Sunday before attending the Day of Mindfulness. Morning Sun will prepare your meals while you are here, with the exception of Saturday lunch (bagged BYO) (accommodation and meal details are on the registration form).
• Day of Quiet Renewal, Saturday 9:30-4:00  (there is a Friday evening arrival option too)A day to refresh ourselves and have time for quiet reflection and meditation. The day is held mostly in silence, including several sitting sessions, a recorded Dharma Talk by Ven. Thich Nhat Hanh, relaxation, outdoor walking meditation, stretching and silent lunch (bring your own bag lunch).
• Day of Mindfulness, Sunday 9:30-2:00  (there is a Saturday evening arrival option too)  This day of mindfulness is open for everyone. It will include sitting meditation, a Mindfulness Training Recitation, a talk about the practice of mindfulness, outdoor walking meditation, and vegetarian BYO bagged lunch (if you are staying overnight from Saturday your lunch is included in your program and will be prepared by MorningSun).

After the day ends at 2, there will be a gathering for Order of Interbeing members and aspirants from 2:00-3:30

COVID-19: Due to the pandemic, we will still uphold safety measures at MorningSun.  This retreat is open to adults who have been fully vaccinated, (if you are not vaccinated yet, or do not intend to be, please contact us to talk more about your options).  During the retreat, some activities will be outdoors to allow for safe distancing, and when indoors, all participants must be masked.  Participants will be required to sign a Covid waiver several days before attending (ensuring that there has been no contact with Covid cases in the previous week).

Accommodations: We have several rooms available in “The Barn” (beds for 7-12 people depending on whether folks are alone, or couples, or in a ‘pod’), and also camping.  Our campground is primitive, with flat sandy sites, outdoor showers and outhouses.  You must provide your own tent and camping equipment.  Campers will also have access to the first floor toilet and clothes washing machine in The Barn.  You may also choose to commute in and out if you live locally.

Retreat Conduct: There will be periods of silence and periods to enjoy conversations with others. To create a gentle and quiet retreat atmosphere, we practice with the Five Mindfulness Trainings. Meals will be vegetarian, and we do not drink alcohol, ingest intoxicants or any recreational drugs. Firearms and other weapons are not permitted in the Mindfulness Center.

Registration: Dear friends, in keeping the retreat size small, we have reached capacity. There is still space in the March Mindful Living Weekend. If you would like to be placed on the waitlist for this February retreat, please send us an email at morningsunoffice@gmail.com. Thank you so much for your compassion.