Anattasati Magga retreats, under the guidance of Nancy Spence,
Buddhist Lay Minister & Teacher, offers a privileged environment for deepening one's mindfulness practice. Designed
in the formal Soto Zen tradition of Shasta Abbey, these retreats offer you the rare opportunity to let the world take care
of itself while you absorb the silence and stillness of retreat.
The daily schedule includes Morning, Mid-day,
Evening and Meal-time Services with silent seated and walking meditations. Additionally, there are scheduled work periods,
creating the opportunity to take the Mind of Meditation into daily activity.
Often a Dharma theme develops during
each retreat. Formal lectures present and elucidate the theme; Dharma discussions allow for deeper inquiry and comprehension.
Retreats also include ceremonies and private interviews with the teacher when appropriate. Except for the above discussion,
the retreat environment is one of silence.
Our North Carolina retreats are held at the Bend of Ivy Lodge, just
north of Asheville or Southern Dharma Retreat Center, 1 hour west of Asheville. Here is a serene, beautiful place designed
to nourish the spirit. A tranquil pond, waterfalls, forest trails, flower gardens and a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains complement
the beautiful restored Lodge. With its gleaming wood and panoramic windows, the meditation blends serenity with the beauty
of nature.
