ON-SITE: In Nature, Our True Nature
Rev. WonGong So
September 18 - 25, 2021
Our true nature is the state of mind that exists before sadness, worry, anger, happiness, or joy. In true nature, there is nothing to defend. There is nothing lacking or overflowing—no sense of success or failure. Our true nature cannot be described in words but is always there. It is indestructible.
This retreat will focus on cultivating equanimity, insight, and mindfulness with nature as our dharma teacher. We will deepen our practice through silent meditation, chanting, body movement, dharma discourse, small group conversation, and one-on-one interviews. The mind-body relationship is integral to this experience, so we will include ample movement (stretching, Tai-chi, Qigong) and rest time to balance chi-energy.
This retreat draws on the heritage of Won Buddhism, a modern spiritual movement from Korea, with philosophical background in Taoism, Confucianism and traditional Buddhism.
Let us bathe together in the great mountain energy of Southern Dharma!
Until further notice, registration for our residential programs is restricted to individuals who have or will receive their final Covid-19 vaccination at least two weeks before their arrival on site. We will be restricting total retreat capacity to allow for comfortable, unmasked participation, as well as the option of outdoor dining in keeping with CDC recommendations. Please be prepared to present proof of your vaccination upon request.
Thank you for your understanding as we work to ensure the safety of our staff, teachers, retreatants, and larger community!
Check-In 4-6pm; Early arrivals may be accommodated; email registrar@southerndharma.org to request
Optional SDRC Grounds Tour with Staff 4:30-5:30pm
Dinner with Mandatory Orientation for all retreatants 6pm
Departures will take place by 2:00pm on last day of retreat
For our 2021 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.
Registration fees do not include dana for the teacher. 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 four housing options: 1) Bed in Lodge in a shared double room, 2) Bed in Lodge in dorm with privacy partitions, 3) Unheated kuti (single cabin, outdoor bathroom), 4) Tent Platform. 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.
Southern Dharma is now offering 50% scholarship awards for BIPOC and young adults in addition to those with financial need. Indicate your interest in a scholarship during the registration process. More information available here.
This program is also eligible for Hemera Contemplative Fellowships! Apply here before registering.
About the Teacher
Rev. WonGong So
Rev. WonGong (she/her), affectionately known as Rev. Wow!, is a lifetime dedicated dharma teacher. A pioneering Won Buddhist priest, she has established temples in Chapel Hill and Raleigh, North Carolina. She is a guest lecturer at schools, colleges, and meditation centers, teaching Buddhist philosophy and meditation to people of all ages and backgrounds. Rev. Wow! […]
Learn more about Rev. WonGong SoCategories : Display on Website, On-Site Retreats, WonGong