This is the fifth year I have participated in the Silent Retreat and it always leaves me with a renewed presence of mind and awareness of the world around me. The periods of silent meditation are mixed with walking meditation, chanting and Dharma talks. Though sitting in a meditational pose is daunting at first, Maryn and Patrick and Sam are readily available to give helpful advice on meditating and comfortable sitting. The wooded setting is absolutely beautiful with a crafted polygonal temple suitable for sitting in a circle. There is also an open air dojo surrounded by woods and a yoga platform overlooking a swimmable pond. The food is imaginative and vegetarian and sumptuous. Despite being silent over five days there is a remarkable feeling of community and common purpose. I emerged feeling restored and at peace with the world.

Always beautiful, highly recommended!

What an amazing opportunity to completely unplug and drop deeply into oneself and the magic of our Earth happening all around us. Sam, Maryn, and Patrick were gentle, generous guides through a rigorous schedule of sitting, standing, and walking meditations, and a daily inspiring dharma talk. This was not easy work, but the container created made breakthroughs possible even for someone without a daily meditation practice. Katja's hearty meals were extremely tasty and fresh, and as each day passed and all my senses heightened, each meal tasted better than the last. I often have difficulty sleeping through the night but in the peaceful, spacious Mullein House I slept soundly, dreamed vividly, and woke without an alarm as soon as the sun rose over the horizon outside the window over my bed. Susanna and Joav have created a heavenly home on a steep, forested mountain (no small feat!) to commune with the natural world, revel in her beauties, and connect deeply with Soul and Spirit again.

the best!!!!