During this time, meditators are expected to practice in silence, observe the five precepts and maintain a continuity of practice throughout the day. There are at least four group sittings daily. Students schedule their practice individually during the remaining hours of the day. Retreatants practice cultivating presence of mind in a wider variety of daily activities than during other retreats. The daily schedule combines periods of formal meditation practice with five hours of work in silence in one of the IMS departments.
Participation is limited to experienced meditators only and requires a high degree of self-reliance.
The work can be physically demanding at times. Work retreats require a separate application form. A work retreat is not meant to take the place of a scholarship. Write or call to request program information and an application. Practice guidelines are similar to those for shorter individual retreats with an additional emphasis on self-reliance.