Zen Sesshin, Ecodharma and Nature Kinning Retreat
** CLICK THE LEADER TO SEE THEIR BIO **
Leaders
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Kritee KankoCo-LeaderKritee (dharma name Kanko) is a Climate Scientist, Buddhist Zen priest, Educator & Founding Spiritual teacher of Boundless in Motion. She is an ordained teacher in the Rinzai Zen lineage of Cold Mountain and a co-founder of Rocky Mountain Ecodharma Retreat Center. She has served as faculty for courses or retreats at the intersection of climate crisis, racial justice, trauma healing and spirituality for many organizations including One Earth Sangha, Al Gore’s Climate Reality, Stanford University, World Council of Churches, San Francisco Zen Center, Mind & Life Institute and Lama Foundation. She has served as a leading scientist in the Climate Smart Agriculture program at Environmental Defense Fund for 12 years.
Kritee‘s experience is that identifying and releasing our personal and ecological grief in presence of a loving community is necessary; that helps us unlock our gifts and serve our communities. Her articles and interviews have appeared in the New York Times, BBC, Washington Post, Harvard Health, Yale Climate Connections, California Public Radio. Please see her personal website here.
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Imtiaz RangwalaGuest TeacherImtiaz Rangwala has been practicing meditation for ~20 years and is a lay meditation teacher in the lineage of Cold Mountain Zen. He is also one of the founding members of Boulder Ecodharma Sangha. Professionally, he is a Climate Scientist at the University of Colorado in Boulder where he provides climate science support to people managing our land, water, and wildlife.
He loves to nurture community through his love for cooking, gardening, and sharing songs and stories. He also greatly loves the outdoors and considers nature to be a very important teacher. Imtiaz was raised in the Islamic tradition of progressive Dawoodi Bohras and remained influenced by Sufism. He will primarily serve as the chef and kitchen logistics manager for this retreat.
KEY POINTS
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DATES AND TIMES
Arrival: Monday, May 11 at 2:30 pm. Departure: Sunday, May 17 at 2:00 pm.
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REQUIREMENTS
For anyone who is new to Zen tradition, you will be asked to view a few online "Introduction to Zen" modules. See RMERC accessibility, information HERE.
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PROGRAM PRICE
$650 (includes food and lodging); Scholarships Available. Part time attendance is possible by special permission.
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LEADER SUPPORT
By donation (see Things to Know)
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LANGUAGES
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ALL QUESTIONS
Contact Kritee Kanko [email protected]
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EQUIPMENT LIST
More information will be sent by the retreat leaders after application is accepted (see what RMERC provides here)
- CALENDAR
EVENT DESCRIPTION
Take advantage of this opportunity to deepen your meditation practice in a community rooted in the Rinzai Zen Buddhist lineage, with a trauma-informed approach to healing and teachings inspired by Kingian and Gandhian Nonviolence. It includes daily practices such as seated and walking meditation, nature immersion, chanting, and silent work periods, all within a structured, silent dharma container. Ideal for those ready to face their growth edges and transform internalized trauma, this retreat at the Rocky Mountain Ecodharma Retreat Center invites participants to engage in profound spiritual practice and healing.
Our sangha takes a trauma informed approach to healing, awakening and changemaking. As a result, at our retreats, we combine practices from the ancient tradition of Rinzai Zen with our current understanding of what individuals need to face and release our trauma. Each day will include indoor zazen (seated meditation), outdoor meditation (by trees, bonfire or flowing water), kinhin (group walking meditation), deep abdominal chanting, opportunities to share our experience with other participants, a talk at the interface of Zen and Ecodharma teachings, rest periods, samu (silent work periods to prepare food) and dokusan (private interview with the teacher). One day will be completely devoted to silent practice in Nature (Nature Kinning Day). For complete DAILY SCHEDULE, see HERE.
THIS RETREAT WILL BENEFIT YOU IF:
- You feel ready to deepen your meditation practice in a structured dharma container.
- You know that spiritual practice is not about being comfortable and ready to be at your growth edge in your search for healing and enlightenment.
- You’re primarily looking for a silent retreat. We do not offer guided meditation more than once a day.
- You’ve become disenchanted with traditional forms of activism but you trust that racial and climate justice are related and that we need inner trauma healing to build our collective power.
- You want to face and transform your grief, fear and anger but not be controlled by them.
- You are comfortable with being tested and following Infectious disease protocols.
- You are okay with silence and being away from internet and phone connection.
TESTIMONIALS
I love the intense meditation techniques (bamboo breathing), metta (loving kindness), mindful eating and abdominal chanting. The rigor of the container allowed me to surrender to the spiritual experience even when I was new to Zen tradition and this was my first meditation retreat. – Gabriel, Denver
Nourishing food, Trauma informed and accessibility centered tenderness, Invitations to rest, Ceremonial (Oryoki) meals, Samu (group work), and time with creek, trees, rocks, animals (Elk and Moose) and birds were the most transformational for me. – Lex Hahn-Dunn, Denver
Food and Meals. We will prepare Ayurveda based vegan food for this retreat. You can bring your own snacks to eat in privacy to meet your medical needs.
THINGS TO KNOW
THINGS TO KNOW
VOLUNTARY DONATIONS FOR LEADERS (DANA)
The price of retreats is set as low as possible and covers only retreat center expenses. None of the fee goes to the leaders, who are solely supported by the voluntary dana offerings of yogis. In the tradition of the Buddha, the amount of the dana offering is up to each individual. We do ask that your offering be as generous as your finances allow in order to support the tireless efforts of the leaders. We are very grateful for your support.
Options for offering dana to the teacher include donating by cash or check at the end of the retreat or in some cases using a credit card, debit card or PayPal link added to the retreat description (above) or sent in a post-retreat email.
PAYMENT AND SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION
Payment and Cancellation Policies
Retreats with Private Registration
Please check with your leader or the retreat description for details of payments, cancellation policies, etc.
Scholarships
Retreats with Private Registration
Yogis in these retreats should contact the leaders to inquire about scholarship and support options.
FOOD AND MEALS
Please check with your leader or the retreat listing about specifics of meals.
Tea, coffee and such are available all day long, along with some simple snacks such as mixed nuts and fruit. If you want a snack between meals, or supplemental protein, you can bring a small quantity of packaged unrefrigerated food. Please do not bring anything that needs refrigeration (medicine excepted). Excessive snacks are unnecessary: if you need a boost, a little gorp or an energy bar is sufficient for most people.
GENERAL RETREAT INFORMATION
Accessibility
We welcome everyone to the beauty and serenity of the Rocky Mountains. Please be aware that our historic lodge and its surroundings reflect the rugged nature of our location. The terrain is often uneven, and the lodge features steep stairs and smaller, rustic bathrooms that may present challenges for those with limited mobility.
While we are working toward long-term structural improvements, we are deeply committed to making our retreats as inclusive as possible today. If you have any concerns about your ability to navigate the space, please reach out to us. We would love to discuss your specific needs and explore every possible way to support your stay.
RMERC Lodging
Lodging at RMERC includes
- Single rooms
- Shared rooms (all doubles except for 1 triple that fills if needed)
- ‘Mini-singles’, available in the shoulder seasons
- A single ‘nook’
- Glamping and camping, available in the summer and early fall
- RV spaces, available all season.
See lodging details and photos here. Available lodging options are presented during registration.
Waivers and Minimum Age
All participants must sign an RMERC Waiver and Release to participate in activities at RMERC. Click here to sign the Waiver and Release. Some leaders may require their own waiver and release.
Participants must be 18 years or older to attend a retreat at RMERC. We are not able to accommodate children.
Yogi Jobs
Some of the work necessary to support the group will be handled by participants during the retreat. Yogi jobs will be organized by the retreat manager. Most participants find serving others in this way quite enjoyable, and a great opportunity for practice in action. Yogi jobs typically include meal prep, meal clean up, bathrooms, tea bar, and last-day clean up.
Phone and Internet
You will be out of contact with no internet access or cell phone service during the retreat. The nearest strong cell signal could be as far away as the plains north of Boulder, or in the town of Nederland.
Please complete all personal business before you arrive. The staff will have the ability to make and receive emergency calls or emails on your behalf, but phone and internet are only available for emergency use.
Equipment List
Weather in the Rocky Mountains is variable and often unpredictable. Sunny skies can quickly give way to fast-moving storms, bringing sudden rain, hail, and wind, regardless of the season. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically between day and night, with warm midday conditions followed by cold or freezing temperatures at night. During June-September, average highs are 65-75 F and lows are 35-45 F. In May and October average highs are in the 50s and lows are below freezing. April and November are colder still.
Equipment lists vary from one retreat to the next. Download an equipment list for your retreat on the retreat listing (or contact the retreat organizer). A general equipment list is available here: PDF Version | Word Version.
Please do not bring a radio, music player, iPod, laptop, books, axe, alcohol, marijuana, or illegal drugs. Think about whether you really need a camera; is it consistent with the intentions of a retreat?
What RMERC Provides
- Linens. Two sheets, a pillowcase, pillow, two blankets, and a towel are supplied for each lodge guest, including glamping. Campers get a towel. Extra linens are available as needed.
- Toiletries. Bathrooms are stocked with soap, hand soap, shampoo, and conditioner.
- Refrigerator. A very small refrigerator is available for guest items; it is shared by all guests.
- Fans are available as needed. Air purifiers are in all double rooms.
- Yoga mats, meditation mats (zabutons) and meditation cushions (zafus) are available for indoor use.
Altitude Sickness
RMERC is at an elevation of 8600 feet, and most people coming from lower elevations experience some effects of altitude. If you are coming from sea level, we recommend that you arrive in the Denver area a night earlier to help acclimatize. Remember to stay hydrated, stay warm, and take it easy the first day or two at the retreat center. Be kind to yourself.
No Fragrances Please
Out of consideration for others, we ask that you not use scented self-care products, oils, or fragrances. We ask that everyone exercise the utmost respect for self and others. Thank you!
Infectious Disease Policy
See the complete infectious disease policy here.
RMERC prioritizes creating a safe and comfortable retreat environment. RMERC does not require vaccinations, testing, or masks at this time. However, individual retreat leaders may determine stricter protocols at their discretion, and RMERC may revise the infectious disease policy in response to changes in public health guidelines
We recommend wearing N95 masks during travel and self-monitoring your possible exposure before arrival. If you experience symptoms, contact the retreat leader and consider adjusting your plans. HEPA air purifiers are available in shared rooms, and mask-wearing is always welcome.
TRAVEL AND ARRIVAL AT RMERC
Arrival and Departure Times
Most retreats begin at 4:00 pm on the first day of the retreat (please check the start times in the retreat details). Yogis may arrive 1 hour early but they will not have access to the lodge or bathrooms. Yogis who are camping may set up their tents at that time. Note that all tents must be on the lodge side of the stream.
Most retreats end after lunch on the last day of the retreat, and all participants must vacate the property by 2:00 pm.
Travel to the Retreat Center
RMERC is located about 45 minutes NW of Boulder, at 8941 Overland Rd., Ward, CO. If driving, please park in our main parking lot by the road and walk down to the lodge.
There is no public transportation to the center, and if you need a ride, the best option is to carpool with other yogis. RMERC provides a rideshare forum if your retreat uses RMERC-hosted registration (see details for your retreat). Otherwise, you may contact the leader of your retreat for assistance. Uber or Lyft may provide another option; please contact them to inquire.
Note: there is no cell phone service in the region around the retreat center.
Flights to Denver
Denver International Airport (DIA) is about 90 minutes from the center. Your best options for travel to the center are:
- Shuttle bus to Boulder (1 hr) and then carpool to the center; RTD public transportation ($10) departs DIA every hour, or check Green Ride Boulder.
- Uber or Lyft, either to Boulder or to the center
- Car rental
You should plan on your flight arriving no later than 1 pm to reach the retreat center on time. Return flights departing from the Denver airport should leave no earlier than 5:30 or 6 pm. Please do not plan on leaving the retreat early.
Arrival and Departure Times
Most retreats begin at 4:00 pm on the first day of the retreat (please check the start times in the retreat details). Yogis may arrive 1 hour early but they will not have access to the lodge or bathrooms. Yogis who are camping may set up their tents at that time. Note that all tents must be on the lodge side of the stream.
Most retreats end after lunch on the last day of the retreat, and all participants must vacate the property by 2:00 pm.
Travel to the Retreat Center
RMERC is located about 45 minutes NW of Boulder, at 8941 Overland Rd., Ward, CO. If driving, please park in our main parking lot by the road and walk down to the lodge.
There is no public transportation to the center, and if you need a ride, the best option is to carpool with other yogis. RMERC provides a rideshare forum if your retreat uses RMERC-hosted registration (see details for your retreat). Otherwise, you may contact the leader of your retreat for assistance. Uber or Lyft may provide another option; please contact them to inquire.
Note: there is no cell phone service in the region around the retreat center.
Flights to Denver
Denver International Airport (DIA) is about 90 minutes from the center. Your best options for travel to the center are:
- Shuttle bus to Boulder (1 hr) and then carpool to the center; RTD public transportation ($10) departs DIA every hour, or check Green Ride Boulder.
- Uber or Lyft, either to Boulder or to the center
- Car rental
You should plan on your flight arriving no later than 1 pm to reach the retreat center on time. Return flights departing from the Denver airport should leave no earlier than 5:30 or 6 pm. Please do not plan on leaving the retreat early.
MISCELLANEOUS
RMERC Donations and Membership
RMERC is a nonprofit organization with a mission to offer low-cost retreats to as many people as possible. At the end of your retreat, you are invited to make a tax deductible donation to RMERC, and also to join the membership program of the RMERC community if you so choose. More information is here.
Pets and Service Animals
RMERC does not allow pets or animals, with the exception of service animals. Regarding service animals, bears and moose may become more dangerous in the presence of dogs. Other wildlife at RMERC may be disturbed by dogs. If you use a service dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for you because you have a disability, please let us know in advance (email [email protected]) so we can work with you to minimize risks associated with dogs and wildlife. Emotional support, therapy, companion, comfort, or assistance animals and pets do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not permitted at RMERC.
Hiking Trails
Download a Trail Map in Color or a Trail Map in Black and White.
Lightning Hazards
Thunder and lightning storms are not uncommon during the summer months, and lightning is a very real hazard. Take shelter in a lightning storm, ideally in a building or in a car. If that is not possible, crouch down and maintain a low profile until the storm passes. Sound travels approximately 1 mile every 5 seconds. Count the number of seconds between a lightning strike and the sound of thunder; a 10-15 second delay indicates that lightning is several miles away, and is warning to take shelter.
Equipment Rentals and Supplies
Please check with REI in Boulder (303-583-9970) for rentals of tents, sleeping bags, pads, backpacks, etc. Boulder is the largest city in the area, and the best source of supplies. Nederland also has a few well-stocked stores, including grocery, outdoor shop, and library (but no pharmacy).
Nearby Camping
If you are searching for a place to camp prior to arrival or post-departure, we recommend using phone apps to search, for example,
- iOverlander, for a wide variety of options
- RV Parky, especially good for finding RV parking options
- The Dyrt, for both free and paid camping options (premium version is best)
- Recreation.gov app, for reservations at federal campgrounds (cost is very reasonable)
- Hipcamp, for lower-cost camping and lodging options
RMERC Donations and Membership
RMERC is a nonprofit organization with a mission to offer low-cost retreats to as many people as possible. At the end of your retreat, you are invited to make a tax deductible donation to RMERC, and also to join the membership program of the RMERC community if you so choose. More information is here.
Pets and Service Animals
RMERC does not allow pets or animals, with the exception of service animals. Regarding service animals, bears and moose may become more dangerous in the presence of dogs. Other wildlife at RMERC may be disturbed by dogs. If you use a service dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for you because you have a disability, please let us know in advance (email [email protected]) so we can work with you to minimize risks associated with dogs and wildlife. Emotional support, therapy, companion, comfort, or assistance animals and pets do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not permitted at RMERC.
Hiking Trails
Download a Trail Map in Color or a Trail Map in Black and White.
Lightning Hazards
Thunder and lightning storms are not uncommon during the summer months, and lightning is a very real hazard. Take shelter in a lightning storm, ideally in a building or in a car. If that is not possible, crouch down and maintain a low profile until the storm passes. Sound travels approximately 1 mile every 5 seconds. Count the number of seconds between a lightning strike and the sound of thunder; a 10-15 second delay indicates that lightning is several miles away, and is warning to take shelter.
Equipment Rentals and Supplies
Please check with REI in Boulder (303-583-9970) for rentals of tents, sleeping bags, pads, backpacks, etc. Boulder is the largest city in the area, and the best source of supplies. Nederland also has a few well-stocked stores, including grocery, outdoor shop, and library (but no pharmacy).
Nearby Camping
If you are searching for a place to camp prior to arrival or post-departure, we recommend using phone apps to search, for example,
- iOverlander, for a wide variety of options
- RV Parky, especially good for finding RV parking options
- The Dyrt, for both free and paid camping options (premium version is best)
- Recreation.gov app, for reservations at federal campgrounds (cost is very reasonable)
- Hipcamp, for lower-cost camping and lodging options
KEY POINTS
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DATES AND TIMES
Arrival: Monday, May 11 at 2:30 pm. Departure: Sunday, May 17 at 2:00 pm.
-
REQUIREMENTS
For anyone who is new to Zen tradition, you will be asked to view a few online "Introduction to Zen" modules. See RMERC accessibility, information HERE.
-
PROGRAM PRICE
$650 (includes food and lodging); Scholarships Available. Part time attendance is possible by special permission.
-
LEADER SUPPORT
By donation (see Things to Know)
-
LANGUAGES
-
ALL QUESTIONS
Contact Kritee Kanko [email protected]
-
EQUIPMENT LIST
More information will be sent by the retreat leaders after application is accepted (see what RMERC provides here)
- CALENDAR
RETREAT MANAGER
Retreat Manager
Dale Gaar
Other Staff
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Imtiaz Rangwala (Chef)
