Rooted in the Turning World (LGBTQIA+)

This LGBTQIA+ meditation retreat offers a welcoming space to return to grounded presence through a blend of Zen and Vipassana practice. Together, we will explore how to stay rooted amid the Eight Worldly Winds—the shifting, often intense conditions of our world—by gently practicing radical acceptance and the art of “not knowing.” In doing so, we can reconnect with what is true within us and find refuge in community.

Guided and silent meditations, Dharma talks, and heart-centered connection will support our inquiry into how mindfulness helps us meet these times without losing touch with our inherent dignity, joy, and power. Whether you are an experienced meditator or just beginning, you are warmly invited to come as you are—fully, fiercely, and fabulously.

For 2026, Covid-19 testing will not be required or provided. However, participants are asked to approach the days leading up to the retreat with care and mindfulness, in consideration of staff, teachers, and fellow guests. Masks are optional and encouraged, especially if you are feeling unwell. Please avoid higher-risk situations when possible and use masks to help reduce the spread of viruses on site. Anyone experiencing symptoms of a communicable illness is strongly encouraged to stay home.

First-time retreatants at Southern Dharma must arrive by 5:00pm ET on the first day of retreat, with check-in beginning at 3:00pm. Returning participants may check in between 3:00pm and 6:00pm. Departure is by 2:00pm on the final day, so please be sure you can attend the full program before registering.

All registrations follow the new 2026 cancellation policy, which each retreatant must review and accept at the time of registration. Pricing for 2026 is based on lodging, and you are invited to choose the option that best reflects your ability to give at this time. Any amount paid above the Base rate is a tax-deductible contribution to Southern Dharma Retreat Center, and your confirmation email serves as your receipt for tax purposes.

We are deeply grateful for your support. Please note that registration fees do not include dana for the teacher(s). In the Buddhist tradition, teachings are offered freely, and teachers rely on dana contributions from students. Your generosity helps sustain a community of practitioners committed to the Dharma.

Housing and all meals are included in the program fee. Five housing options are currently available:

• Bed in Lodge, shared double room (2nd floor)
• Bed in Lodge, dorm with privacy partitions (3rd floor)
• Unheated kuti (single cabin)
• Canvas Tent (furnished, single)
• Basic Tent Platform (camping with your own gear)

*Please note: Southern Dharma is no longer able to offer Heated Kutis. All Kutis are unheated and have no electricity.

Scholarship awards are available based on need at 25% or 50% discounts for lodge-based room assignments. Choosing a scholarship option means you are likely to be placed in shared housing. Please use the appropriate fields to share any additional housing needs, including preferences for same-gender housing, snoring, CPAP use, or a need for single housing if you registered through a scholarship pathway and would otherwise be placed in the lodge.

Additional financial aid is available for BIPOC and Young Adults, as well as for those with more significant financial need. If you require support beyond the 25% or 50% scholarship options, please email to inquire. Participants who have previously used Hemera Foundation Fellowships are welcome to apply any of the in-house scholarship options.