In Nature, Our True Nature

Spring invites us to invoke our lively chi-energy. Come and experience the joyful essence of our true nature with Rev. WonGong in the mountains of Western North Carolina.

To go deep into our inner calm, we will observe Noble Silence, practicing many forms of meditation—sitting, movement, nature contemplation, journaling, DahnJon-abiding breathing, lying-down relaxation, and more.

Our meditation will flow between practice at rest and practice in motion. We value the relationship between healthy body energy and spiritual cultivation. With step-by-step guidance, we will deepen our meditation through qigong, yoga, and various breathing techniques.

This retreat will include teaching and sharing in both group and individual sessions, with ample free time for exploring the natural surroundings and rest. In harmony with the interconnectedness of all things, we will practice outdoors as much as weather permits and bathe in the vibrant mountain energy.

In Won Buddhism, our true nature is symbolized by the image of a circle: no beginning, no ending — true voidness, marvelous existence. The retreat program is designed to develop equanimity, insight, and mindfulness: the Threefold Practice of Won Buddhism. Through this retreat, may we restore our calm, numinous awareness—the pristine authenticity of our true nature!

The retreat will be co-led by Patty Daniel. Patty will facilitate some small group and practice sessions.

This retreat will be most beneficial for those who already have a regular meditation practice or multi-day retreat experience. If you do not meet this prerequisite and you would like to be considered as a participant, please contact Rev. WonGong (WontempleNC@gmail.com) regarding your circumstances.

We no longer require COVID-19 vaccinations to attend our programs, but do still require testing. We require all registered participants to present negative results from a Covid test performed in the 3 days prior to the start of your retreat AND that you consent to being tested upon your arrival at Southern Dharma. Any rapid antigen test is acceptable for testing, including over-the-counter at-home tests.

Thank you for your understanding as we work to ensure the safety of our staff, teachers, retreatants, and larger community!

NEW IN 2024: First-time retreatants at Southern Dharma must arrive by 5pm ET on the first day of retreat. Check-in begins at 3pm. Returning yogis can check-in between 3 and 6pm.

Departures will take place by 2:00pm on the last day of retreat. Please make sure that you can attend the full program before registering.

All registrations are subject to our new 2024 cancellation policy. All retreatants must review and agree to this policy upon registration.

For our 2024 retreats, three fee tiers are offered. Please choose the option that best fits your ability to give in this time. Any amount paid above the Base rate is a tax deductible contribution to Southern Dharma Retreat Center. Your confirmation email is your receipt for tax purposes.

We are deeply grateful for your support.

Note that registration fees do not include dana for the teacher(s). In the Buddhist tradition the teachings are offered freely and teachers are not paid for their offerings. They rely on dana contributions from students. Similarly, Southern Dharma keeps registration fees low to ensure the Dharma is accessible to all. Fees cover only a fraction of Southern Dharma’s operating expenses. We appreciate your practice of generosity to continue the dissemination of the Dharma.

Housing and all meals are included in the program fee. We are currently offering six housing options:

1. Bed in Lodge, shared double room (2nd floor)
2. Bed in Lodge, dorm with privacy partitions (3rd floor)
3. Unheated kuti (single cabin, outdoor bathroom)
4. Heated kuti (single cabin, outdoor bathroom)
5. Canvas Tent (furnished, outdoor bathroom)
6. Basic Tent Platform (camping with your own gear)

Please use the appropriate field in the registration process to let us know your preferences in regards to housing, if any, and also specify if you insist on or prefer being housed with others of the same gender. All housing options are priced the same except for the Basic Tent Platform.

Southern Dharma is offers 50% scholarship awards for BIPOC and Young Adults, in addition to those with financial need. Indicate your interest in a Southern Dharma in-house scholarship during the registration process.

This program is also eligible for Hemera Contemplative Fellowships. Please note that you must apply for the Fellowship prior to registering for any program. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.