In such an idyllic setting, however, the surrounding forests provide plenty of breeze through the large wide-open doors. This is due largely to the physical and mental strain of the first mediation sessions. A typical program this year begins with registration and various orientation programs from 1 to 10pm on the first day. Then three full days of concentrated activities follow, with a morning of in all activities on the fifth day. In helping to melt away the illusions of a separate ego and self, everything is done as a group.
Total silence dominates many of the activities.
Then a very charming shuffle of feet breaks the stunning silence as participants prepare for predawn chanting up in the Main Buddha Hall. The carefully planned program aims for an ideal combination of meditation, education, exercise and religious practice. For example, during the three full days, morning chanting is followed by meditation, the meal offering, a1-hour walking tour of nearby hermitages, a special Dharma talk or lecture, and more meditation before lunch. On the last night, the participants spend time in discussions with the staff of monks. After morning chanting on the final day, the program culminates with a Precepts Ceremony for those who wish to make a formal commitment to price the Five Moral Precepts in daily life.