The time and space for this popular annual meditation retreat has been created at beautiful KDOL, a Buddhist retreat centre, on the top of Mt Tuam, Salt Spring Island, that holds a long history of people sitting and walking in silence and deer watching. The views are vast and spectacular (like the mind). We invite people who want to learn and practise mindfulness meditation (for new and continuing students) and hold silent space for themselves and others (both inside the retreat and on the planet at this time). Silence brings up what we most need. It can be uncomfortable, surprising, insightful, uncertain and joyous. Stillness can be a time of coming home to ourselves.

We will arrive after lunch on Friday ready for orientation at 3pm. We go into silence at 5pm with meditation instruction and an overview of our time together. We will be in silence after this session until Wednesday morning at 9am. We will address any questions about spiritual /life practice and mindfulness meditation instructions you may have during teaching sessions. Heather will also be available twice for individual interviews if needed. The last day, Wednesday, will be silent through breakfast. We will then meet as a group at 9am to share what needs to be shared followed by a final clean up.

Cost for simple accommodation individual cabins with great views of the strait and meals (meals will be veg., nutritious with gluten and dairy-free options): 5-dayTotal $675, 12 day $1564 with a donation to the teachers – see generosity practice. (We can discuss a camping option if you bring your own tent or shared room option, to keep expenses down).

Register by email (form below) a non-refundable deposit of $300/700 (12 days) will secure your registration heatherferris46@gmail.com with e-transfer or cheque made out to Heather Ferris and mailed to 408-5801 Alderlea St, Duncan V9L 3V4. The balance of $375/$864 must be received by April 1, 2025. For further information email anytime or call 250-9371289.

Cancellation policy:  Be advised there will be no refunds for cancellations after April 1 because of financial commitments to KDOL and the cook.

What to bring: very warm sleeping bag or bedding (sheets and pillows are provided), flashlight, whatever foods for your particular needs in addition to meals provided (to be kept in airtight containers because of critters), yoga mat, water bottle, comfortable clothing, walking shoes and rain gear. The cabins and practice room are not heated and there is no electricity for recharging phones, so please bring an alternative clock for your personal use.

About the teacher: Heather Ferris has practised Buddhist meditation for 33 years. She teaches meditation in Canada and South Africa and incorporates mindfulness practise in her work as a psychotherapist in the Duncan area. The teachings are given freely.  Generosity opens our hearts. 

Car-pooling is preferred.  14 people per retreat max so register early. 

 For information about KDOL :     http://www.kkc-kdol.org/content/kdol