Embracing Eco Dharma as A New Saint

In this retreat we will explore themes around climate anxiety, the harm of individual and collective narcissism, connecting to the awakened consciousness of the earth as well as the sky, and developing renewed visions for climate change organizing and activism based on the recognition that all systems of violence intersect with climate change work. We will be relying on Lama Rod’s newest book, The New Saints, along with ancient Buddhist based practices, including mindfulness and tantra, and body-based practices to deepen our understanding of our body’s connection to the earth. This retreat is open to anyone regardless of practice experience.

The earth is precious. Without its health and stability our own well-being is threatened. Each day we learn more and more about the ways our earth and climate are becoming jeopardized. For most of us, this has created a deep fear and overwhelming anxiety. We are faced with the struggle of making choices to live more sustainably while systems of violence and power like capitalism, racism, patriarchy, and others continue to disrupt this work of sustainability.

Engaging in climate change work is more than just making choices to live more sustainably such as beginning to recycle more, eating less meat, or investing in renewable energy. It is even more than climate activism and organizing. It means returning to an indigenous way of being and living, a path that has been disrupted in communities all over the world through colonialism and capitalism. The way forward is learning how to bridge our choices around sustainable living with a conscious practice reconnecting to the consciousness of the earth, learning to tend to our individual and collective suffering which impacts the earth, and returning to embracing a deep care of our communities.

Retreat Information

Lodging Options

• Calwood Cabin Bunkbeds (8-10 participants per room)
• Private Rooms – None available.

Tiered Pricing

We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to immerse themselves in self-care and personal growth, regardless of their financial situation. We’re glad to offer a tiered pricing model with an equitable allocation process to make sure this retreat is accessible to a wide range of individuals.

We are dedicated to making this retreat accessible to a diverse range of individuals. We have structured a tiered pricing model to reflect both financial capacity and the principles of environmental stewardship. Here’s a breakdown of each tier that mirror the natural cycles of pine tree growth.

• Grass: 14 openings, $500
• Bottlebrush: 14 openings, $700
• Sapling: 27 openings, $900
• Mature: 20 openings, $1100
• Old Growth: People with excess funds

Payment, Deposits,

A non-refundable deposit of $120 is due if registering before March 25, or full payment is due at 60 days or if registering after March 25. If paying the registration fee only, your card will be automatically charged 60 days before the start date. If you have questions about payment, please contact [email protected].

Cancellation, and Refund Policies

• If you cancel your retreat at any time, the $120 registration fee is not refunded.
• Cancellations received 60-30 days prior will get a refund of half of the final payment.
• Cancellations 30-7 days prior will get a refund of a quarter of the final payment.
• For cancellations inside of 7 days there will be no refunds.

Teacher Donations (Dana)

To support accessibility, the cost of the retreat is set as low as possible. Retreat registration payments primarily cover expenses: renting the center, food, cooks, insurance, and staff travel. The teachers are then resourced by donations (dana). This integrated approach to compensation reflects Lama Rod’s commitment to making the tradition of the Buddha relevant to the present moment (as he writes about in The New Saints), which means honoring the material needs of his energetic presence and livelihood. We ask that your donation be as generous as possible within your means, to honor Lama Rod’s labor and spiritual commitment to the work. Please bring a check or cash. We are grateful for your support.

Infectious Disease Policy

See the complete infectious disease policy here.

RMERC prioritizes creating a safe and comfortable retreat environment. While we don’t require vaccinations, testing, or masks, individual retreats might have stricter policies. We recommend wearing N95 masks during travel and self-monitoring your health 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.

Time and Transportation

Contact

You will be out of contact with no internet access or cell phone service during the retreat. 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 not available for personal use.

Food and Meals

The Cal-Wood Kitchen provides three meals a day and uses whole ingredients and prepares our delicious meals from scratch.  Additionally, we do our best to accommodate all participants’ needs and we take dietary restrictions and allergies very seriously.  Participants will need to supplement their own food if your allergy is found under the” partial” or “do not” list of accommodations.  If you are bringing your own food, you will have access to: microwave, toaster oven, fridge, and freezer

Allergies we Accommodate

• gluten allergy (non-celiac)
• lactose intolerance
• peanut allergy
• nut allergy
• vegetarian diet
• egg allergy
• seed allergy
• soy allergy

Allergies we Partially Accommodate

• gluten allergy & egg allergy
• vegetarian diet & soy allergy
• vegan diet
• picky eaters

We DO NOT Accommodate

• gluten allergy (Celiac disease)
• Any allergy so severe that trace contaminants would cause reaction.

Helper (Yogi) Jobs

Some of the work necessary to support the group will be handled by participants during the retreat. You will be able to choose your yogi job, and will keep it throughout the retreat. Most participants find serving others in this way quite enjoyable, and a great opportunity for practice in action.

Please indicate in your application if you are physically incapable of performing certain tasks and/or have an affinity for certain tasks. 

Yogi job examples:

• Support with participants arrival, parking and check in
• Support participants to remember to take off shoes when entering the lodge
• Clean up after any outdoor or indoor meals, trash or food left unattended will attract unwanted visitors (rodents, bears, etc.)
• Periodically check bathrooms cleanliness
• Alternate with other participants to ring the bell 15 minutes before meal times and Dharma talks
• Make coffee and periodically make fresh batch throughout the days
• Take out trash and recycling in the dining hall to the dumpsters behind the kitchen
• Do a walk around for trash in the cabins, outside the cabins, at the rec field and at the campfire circle
• Collect sheets at end of retreat and bring them to the shoe room – place in the hamper
• Sweep out cabins at end of retreat and check for lost and found items
• Break down tables and chairs in the dining hall and/or Meckley Center upstairs

What to Bring