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Spirituality Retreats in United States/
Spirituality Retreats in Woodacre/
Clearing the Path: Opening the Heart and Mind - On Land
Clearing the Path: Opening the Heart and Mind - On Land
September 15 - 19, 2025
Woodacre, CA, United States
Hosted By
4 nights, 5 days
48 person retreat
Highlights
Silent with Specific Conversational Opportunities
Guest speakers: Gullu Singh, JD, Louije Kim, Dawn Mauricio and Jonathan Relucio
Details
The Buddha spoke of five mental and emotional states that cloud the natural clarity of the heart: desire, aversion, restlessness, sloth and torpor, and doubt. These are known as the nīvaraṇāni, the hindrances, the universal experiences that make meditation feel difficult. The word nīvaraṇa means “to cover over,” so when unseen, the hindrances obscure reality, pull us out of presence, and lead us to believe that something must be fixed or changed before we can truly rest in the here and now. On retreat, these forces often become amplified. But this intensity is not a problem—it’s a gift. It offers us the rare chance to witness the mind’s subtle strategies for disconnection with fresh eyes. Each hindrance is not a barrier, but a doorway. When met with patience, curiosity, and compassion, their grip begins to loosen. What once felt like an obstruction reveals itself as instruction. This retreat is a deep exploration of the nīvaraṇāni as familiar companions on the path. We’ll investigate how these energies show up not only in meditation but in the fabric of daily life. Together, we’ll cultivate the liberating capacity to recognize, name, and gently release the hindrances, opening space for clarity, steadiness, and freedom to emerge. As the hindrances settle, the heart reveals its natural radiance and qualities like kindness, calm, joy, and equanimity begin to shine forth. The mind, no longer agitated or dulled, becomes bright, pliant, and deeply receptive. In this space of quiet intimacy, we rediscover what has always been here: the possibility of awakening. All are welcome. Whether it’s your first retreat or you’ve heard many, many talks on the hindrances, each moment is new, and the path clears one step at a time. This retreat is silent except for teacher-led Q&A, small groups, or other practice meetings.
Venue
Spirit Rock Meditation Center
4.5 ★ 145 Reviews
On the land, online, or on-demand, Spirit Rock supports you at every stage of your path to grow a vibrant, nourishing spiritual life. Join us to practice Insight Meditation, Dharma teachings, and mindfulness in a diverse, inclusive community dedicated to the liberation of all beings.
Free Wifi
Garden
Coffee / Tea
Kitchen
Free Parking
Bathroom
Meals
Meals provided
Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner
Diets catered
Vegan · Vegetarian · Gluten-free · Dairy-free
Our meals are sourced from local, sustainable, and organic growers and suppliers, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. We ground all of our cooking decisions in the principle of non-harm. Our menus are built around nutrient-dense whole foods; they are vegetarian, with abundant vegan and gluten-free options. We are mindful of common food allergies and take special care to nourish practitioners with dietary restrictions.
Testimonials
1 / 3
Host
Spirit Rock Meditation Center
Woodacre, CA, USA
Rooted in the teachings of Insight Meditation, Spirit Rock Meditation Center offers retreats, classes, and workshops on-land and online that support both beginners and experienced practitioners in dee...
1 language
English
Teaching for 7 months
Joined Insight Timer in Jul 2025
What's Included
Food
Accommodation
Not Included
Registration fees DO NOT include teacher dana
Flights and Transportation
FAQs
Cancellation policy
The remaining balance for the retreat is due 14 days prior to the start date. If this balance is paid earlier than these 14 days, you are eligible to cancel and receive a full refund of this remaining balance, provided you do so at least 14 days before the retreat begins.
