The Fall 2026 Practice Period at Green Gulch Farm offers both beginning and experienced students the chance to enter a deeply immersive residential practice environment. The nine-week commitment centers on daily zazen, work practice, study, and regular one-on-one meetings with the teacher. Each week also includes lectures, formal ceremonies, classes, oryoki meals in the meditation hall, and gatherings with the practice period teacher. Participants are asked to remain in the Green Gulch valley for the full duration of the practice period.
The program includes one day of tangaryo sitting, a one-day sitting, a five-day sesshin, and a seven-day Rohatsu sesshin led by Abbot Jiryu Rutschman-Byler.
Students accepted into the practice period typically have already taken part in at least one all-day sit, sesshin, and/or a guest student stay at Green Gulch. If you are new to Zen practice, it is strongly recommended that you complete a one-day sit or sesshin at Green Gulch before applying. If you have questions about whether this practice period is a good fit for your experience, please contact the Abbot’s assistant before applying.
To Apply: Please review the Practice Period Guidelines/Shingi before submitting your application. The application deadline is September 3, 2026.
The Practice Period Applications Committee will let applicants know whether they have been accepted by September 8, 2026. If you need an earlier decision for planning purposes, please email and let the team know.
For questions or additional information, please contact the Abbot’s assistant.
This cozy room is designed for double occupancy and offers a comfortable double bed, making it a simple and practical choice for guests sharing a stay. Available from Sunday through Wednesday, it provides a quiet setting for those looking to enjoy a more intimate and restful experience during the week.
Ideal for couples or two guests traveling together, the room creates a welcoming space to unwind after a day of wellness activities, relaxation, or exploring the surroundings. Its compact size adds to the sense of privacy and calm, while the double bed ensures a shared sleeping arrangement that feels easy and convenient.
With its straightforward comfort and peaceful atmosphere, this room is a great option for a short midweek escape focused on rest, connection, and simplicity.
This spacious room is designed for double occupancy and features a comfortable king bed, making it a practical and inviting choice for guests traveling together. Available from Sunday through Wednesday, it offers a peaceful setting for a midweek stay with plenty of room to relax and unwind.
Ideal for couples or companions seeking comfort and simplicity, the room provides a calm atmosphere that supports rest, privacy, and a sense of ease throughout your stay. Its generous layout creates a welcoming environment whether you are returning from a day of activities or simply enjoying a quiet retreat indoors.
With its large size and king bed, this room combines comfort and convenience in a way that feels both restful and accommodating for two guests.
About Abbot Jiryu Rutschman-BylerJiryu Rutschman-Byler is a Soto Zen Buddhist priest and teacher in the lineage of Shunryu Suzuki Roshi, with dharma transmission from Sojun Mel Weitsman. Since 1996, he has trained in Zen temples as a residential monk, and he now serves as co-Abbot of the San Francisco Zen Center in his role as Abiding Abbot of Green Gulch...
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