April 10 (Friday) – April 17 (Friday), 2026
During this spring retreat, we will connect with the Dharma of our true nature amidst the serene beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. In realizing our true nature, we come to see that we are one, we are whole—beyond gender, age, division, or separation. Nothing is lacking; nothing is in excess. In this awakening, we open our hearts to embrace the Earth and all living beings with love, healing, and compassion.
To abide in our deep inner calm, we will observe Noble Silence while practicing many forms of meditation—sitting, movement, nature contemplation, journaling, lying-down relaxation, and more. The program is designed to develop equanimity, insight, and mindfulness —the Threefold Practice of Won Buddhism. Our meditation will flow between practice at rest and practice in motion. 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 will include group and individual teaching and sharing time. In harmony with the interconnectedness of all things, we will practice outdoors as weather permits and bathe in the vibrant energy of the mountains.
In Won Buddhism, our true nature is symbolized by the image of a circle: no beginning, no ending—true voidness, marvelous existence. Won Buddhism is a modern, inclusive form of Buddhism that originated in Korea in 1916. Its founder, Sotaesan, envisioned a path that emphasizes equality across all economic groups, races, and genders, as well as between ordained and lay practitioners. He taught that great enlightenment is attainable without withdrawing from everyday life, and that practicing Gratitude and the Threefold Study leads both to personal awakening and to transformation of the world.
Please sign up only if you are committed to participating throughout the entire retreat. There will begenerous personal time, but please be aware that your full participation in group activities is essential for our practice community. This retreat requires prior multi-day residential meditation experience or permission of the teacher. (Rev. WonGong’s email: WonTempleNC@gmail.com).