3-NIGHT DECONSTRUCTING YOURSELF RESIDENTIAL RETREAT
NOTE: The Retreat Is FULL. No more signups will be taken at this point.
led by Michael W. Taft
A Serene and Powerful Long Weekend in the Santa Cruz Mountains
When we release belief in the ego, we release our suffering as well—an insight which is the essence of liberation. Explore and experience the wisdom of this truth as Michael W. Taft guides you in meditation techniques for carefully revealing this constructed nature of selfhood. This peaceful retreat consists of guided meditations, dharma talks, and Q&A sessions, as well as time for silent practice and reflection. Backing up these traditional practices with insights from neuroscience and psychology and nondualism, you will learn the method of “deconstructing yourself.” The retreat will also include the new nondual (i.e. “vast, spacious awareness”) teachings that Michael has been leading for the past few months.
Objectives
- Learn specific techniques for pointing out and uncovering the constructed nature of self
- Learn to meditate on the vast, spacious natural mind
- Understand traditional teachings on no-self, as well as modern neuroscientific viewpoints
- Benefiting from personal guidance in meditation practice
- Powerful days of deep practice, peacefulness, and community
Prices
Retreat cost is $195 in advance, plus the price of your accommodations. Registration fee is fully refundable up to one week before the event. After that, it is non-refundable.
For example, with the dormitory option ($200) the full retreat cost is $510 (195 + 315).
If you commute, the total coast is $390 (195+195).
Accommodation prices for full retreat (all lodging and meals for three nights) are as follows:
| Lodging & Meals | 3 Nights | Total |
| Commuting | 195 | 390 |
| Dormitory | 315 | 510 |
| Semi-Private Dorm | 336 | 531 |
For those in financial hardship, there are scholarships available. Just ask (via email) to see if you are eligible.
Note: there is no camping option this time.
To register, pay the $195 fee via Paypal below. The accommodation fee is due when you arrive. For the accommodation fee, we will take payment by check, Venmo, or Paypal (any fees are covered by you).
Have more questions about lodging? The Vajrapani website has detailed information about the accommodation options on this page.
Food
Meals are all vegetarian. That is the only way Vajrapani cooks them, so that is non-negotiable. The good news is that most vegetarian options (such as vegan and gluten-free) are supported, and the food is delicious.
Location
Vajrapani Institute is located in the gorgeous and serene Santa Cruz Mountains near Boulder Creek, CA at the end of a five-mile dirt road on the border of Castle Rock State Park. While quiet and secluded, it is relatively close to the San Jose and San Francisco airports.
SIGNUP
The retreat is now FULL. Signup has been turned off now.
If you have questions, please email the retreat coordinator, Krisztina Lazar. Use the subject line: Vajrapani Retreat Question
I’m very much looking forward to seeing you there! ~ Michael
