Awaken a deep sense of joy and ease through yoga asana, breath, and Zen meditation.
This retreat offers a chance to step away from busy schedules and endless to-do lists and settle into a quieter, more reflective rhythm. With two full days of classes, plus a half day to open and close the retreat, there will be space to let nature support and restore you, and to experience the joy of “just this” — this moment, exactly as it is. The retreat begins with the first yoga session at 4 pm in Stillwater Hall, followed by dinner and an introductory orientation meeting. Zazen instruction will also be included.
Patricia will co-lead alongside Branching Streams Director Heather Shōren Iarusso. Each day, participants will sit in zazen together and join Heather for Dharma talks and discussions.
Morning yoga classes will include active poses from the Iyengar system, along with other influences. The practice will be deep and attentive, with time spent in poses to cultivate sensitivity to inner experience. Long breaks will allow time to enjoy the land, hike to the beach, and rest. Afternoon classes will focus mainly on floor stretches, including restoratives, with gentle pranayama (breath practices).
The retreat concludes with lunch on Sunday.
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.
With more than 45 years of teaching behind her, Patricia Sullivan brings depth, clarity, and a wide-ranging perspective to every class and retreat she leads. Her journey into yoga began in 1971, and during the 1980s she studied in India on three separate occasions with the Iyengars, an experience that helped shape her lifelong commitment to thoughtful, disciplined practice. Throughout the...
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About Heather Heather Shōren Iarusso currently lives at City Center and serves as the Branching Streams director, offering guidance and support to SFZC affiliate sanghas. Her path has included nine years of residence at Tassajara Zen Mountain Center, where she completed 17 cloistered 90-day practice periods along with 10 summers of work practice. During that time, she took on a wide...
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Thu, Jul 30 – Sun, Aug 2