How does the heart’s release through metta, or loving-kindness, deepen and mature? What is its destination, its peak, its fruit, and its fulfillment? It unfolds when a practitioner develops loving heart-release together with the awakening factors of mindfulness, investigation of principles, energy, rapture, tranquility, immersion, and equanimity—qualities that depend on seclusion, fading away, and cessation, and that ripen in letting go. – SN 46.54 Mettāsahagatasutta
The Path to Awakening is often described as a gradual path, rich with many skillful and beautiful qualities to cultivate along the way. In this training, one learns to recognize and release unskillful and harmful behaviors, as well as unskillful states of mind. As these qualities are refined and what is unhelpful is abandoned, the mind becomes calm, steady, and well directed—ready to develop the understanding and wisdom needed for complete liberation of the heart.
Citta may be translated as mind or heart. An essential part of the path is purifying this heart-mind. Through the practice of metta and the other brahmaviharas, together with the purity cultivated by the Noble Eightfold Path, the mind-heart can become luminous and abundant.
During this retreat, we will explore the supports and results of a luminous heart, along with the qualities that are developed on the gradual path. The clarity of path training and the cultivation of the heart will be woven together throughout the retreat. Teachers will offer talks, meditation instructions, and practice discussions. This silent retreat is suitable for meditators of all experience levels.
Partial attendance is not available for this retreat. Please also consider attending only if your current life circumstances allow you to take part in an important modern renunciation practice: remaining offline and avoiding phone and text communication for the full duration of the retreat, with some exceptions possible in pressing family situations.
CURRENT PUBLIC HEALTH & SAFETY PROTOCOLS:
Cloud Mountain maintains ongoing public health and safety measures. Protocols vary by season, but some level of masking remains an ongoing requirement on retreat.
Please follow this link for UPDATED INFORMATION ABOUT OUR HEALTH AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS.
SCHOLARSHIP INFO
Scholarship funds are available on all retreats to support those facing financial challenges. For more information, please read the Scholarship section of our overview information.
SPECIAL NOTES
This retreat is led by a bhikkhuni or ex-nun.
RETREAT COST
Generosity Tier : $690 plus dana offerings to teacher(s) and staff
Base Tier : $525 plus dana offerings to teacher(s) and staff
Subsidized Tier : $440 plus dana offerings to teacher(s) and staff
In keeping with the Buddhist tradition, none of the registration fee goes to the teacher(s). Please consider offering teacher dāna during the event to support their livelihood. Dāna refers to generosity, or freely offered giving, and more information about this practice and the “economy of gifts” can be found on the Donation page.
Located within the Main Building, this shared room offers a simple, comfortable setting designed with ease and accessibility in mind. Situated on the ground level, it is one of the sleeping rooms that can be especially suitable for guests with special physical needs or mobility limitations.
For added convenience, the room includes its own sink and toilet, helping create a practical and independent stay experience. Its layout supports a calm, uncomplicated atmosphere, making it a thoughtful choice for visitors who value functionality and accessibility during their time at the retreat.
Whether you are joining for rest, reflection, or a wellness program, this room provides the essentials needed for a peaceful stay in a shared accommodation setting.
Ayyā Suvijjānā Bhikkhuni
Ayya Niyyānika Bhikkhuni
Price
$440.00
Fri, Aug 21 – Wed, Aug 26