Foundations of Meditation I: Establishing the Ground

Drala is committed to creating inclusive, transformative programs that encourage personal growth, nurture inner peace, and support meaningful practice. In line with that commitment, we offer tuition-free Foundations Programs, including Foundations of Meditation I & II and Retreat & Renewal.

About the Retreat

Establishing the Ground

Foundations of Meditation I offers a clear, supportive introduction to Buddhist meditation practice. Whether you are completely new to meditation or returning to strengthen your base, this retreat introduces the essential forms of sitting and walking meditation. Guidance centers on posture, breath, and the mindful observation of thoughts, emotions, and sensations with a neutral attitude toward experience.

Accessible teachings on the Buddha’s foundational perspectives are woven in to explain why we practice and how meditation can foster clarity, balance, and inner stability. Rather than focusing on perfecting technique, the retreat encourages a gentle, sustainable relationship with awareness itself.

Through guided meditation, teachings, and periods of reflection, participants gradually build confidence in the practice. No previous experience is needed—only curiosity and a willingness to simply be.

Foundations I lays the groundwork: learning how to sit, return to the present moment, and meet each experience with steadiness and kindness.

Retreat Faculty

Sue Schneider, Ph.D.

Sue Schneider, Ph.D., is a medical anthropologist, integrative health coach, and mindfulness instructor. For more than ten years, she has taught mindfulness meditation to thousands of adult learners in university and community settings, and she has provided trauma-informed mindfulness training for educators, therapists, and coaches. She is a graduate of the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program with Jack [[...]]

Lodging

Several accommodation options are available during checkout. All choices include healthy meals and drinks. Inc V, VG, GF.

• Dormitories: Shared rooms with beds for up to 7-8 people. These are gender-segregated, with men in one dorm and women in another. The dorms use a shared bathroom down the hall, which also includes shower stalls.
• Monk Rooms: A budget-friendly option for participants seeking indoor, private lodging who do not mind using a shared bathroom or are looking for a more affordable retreat solution. Located in the same hall as the Ridgen Dormitories, these rooms offer more privacy than the dorms. Along with a bed, bedding, a private room and closet, monk rooms also feature a large window, a desk, and a desk chair for added comfort.
• Single and Double Rooms: An ideal choice for a retreat when you want both personal space and your own bathroom. Each room includes a bit more space, a dresser and closet, and a 3/4 bathroom with a toilet, sink, and shower, without a bathtub, attached to the room.
• Junior Suite: Our Lodge Junior Suites feature a queen-size bed with a cozy comforter, a desk, dresser, closet, and private bath with bathtub, plus a sitting area.