\”Mindfulness is the Way\” – Retreat for people in the 12 Step Programs

This retreat offers the opportunity for people in 12 Step programs of all types to ‘keep coming back’ to Magnolia Grove to share our experience, strength, and hope and to learn more about the practice of mindfulness and meditation. Daily Activities will include:

Sitting meditation  Walking Meditation  Mindful Eating  Dharma sharing

Deep relaxation  Working Meditation Dharma Talk  Noble Silence

Delicious vegan meals are included along with comfortable housing unless you prefer to camp. As a courtesy to the monastery and others, we do ask that all participants refrain from smoking or taking intoxicants while on the retreat. Please do continue to take any prescription meds you would normally.

Many people in recovery have found that meditation and mindfulness to be a vital part of their recovery programs and we have found that retreats like this help us cultivate a spirit of ‘brotherhood and sisterhood.’ together that is collectively stronger and more enriching than possible when practicing by ourselves. No meditation experience is necessary and people of all spiritual backgrounds or even no religious backgrounds are welcome to attend.

This retreat is not affiliated with any 12 Step program and will not be focused on learning the 12 Steps, but rather provides a chance to learn about meditation together by sharing the practical experience of mindful living with the joyful monks and nuns in the Plum Village Tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Open to members of all 12 Step or other recovery programs, friends, and family.

The “theme” this year will be “Mindfulness is the Way” and we welcome anyone who is interested and we hope that as in years past, attendees will return home, with practical understanding of the basic tools for engaging mindfully with life one day at a time.