If you haven’t been on a silent residential retreat before, you’re sure to have lots of questions about what to expect. Below are some answers to frequently asked questions.
While retreats will vary, the retreat registrar will be sending you a confirmation document that is similar to this one a few weeks prior to the retreat. This should answer many of your questions.
When you arrive at the retreat, we’ll ask you to read our Retreat Etiquette document. Hopefully this will help make you feel more at ease when settling into retreat practice.
TCVC welcomes people new to retreat practice. Please don’t hesitate to contact the registrar if you still have questions. The registrar’s contact information is found in the newsletter for the current retreat.
What’s a Typical Retreat Schedule?
The retreat schedule will be in both the newsletter and the registrar’s confirmation letter, linked to above. While retreat schedules may vary, our usual schedule is as follows…
Opening Day: Checkin 3-6 PM Supper 6 PM Retreat Opens 7:30 PM
Closing Day: Retreat ends after 10:30 AM brunch
What is the retreat format?
The retreat format consists of alternating periods of sitting and walking meditation. The teachers provide instructions along with a daily talk. There is at least one question and answer period each day. The schedule is designed to build momentum in your practice. We usually rise around 6:00 am and the last sit ends about 9:30 pm. While you will be expected to attend all of the sessions led by the teachers, other sitting and walking periods are optional. We encourage you to make the most of your time and the instruction of the teachers. We also encourage you to take good care of yourself and listen to what your body needs.
When will I meet with the teachers?
Interviews, sometimes referred to as “check ins”, are relaxed, low-key ways to talk about your experience with the teacher. They provide an opportunity for you to ask questions and receive individual guidance in your practice.
During a typical one week retreat, each student will have at least two group interviews with the teachers. This gives yogis the benefit of not only having their own questions answered in a more private setting, but allows them to listen to the questions and answers of other yogis in their group. In addition to group interviews, the teachers often post time slots for individual interviews with the teacher for which the yogi can sign up.
You are expected to attend all scheduled interviews with the teachers.
How Should I Sit?
Feel free to experiment with your sitting arrangement. It may take awhile to discover a style of sitting that feels right. You may sit on a cushion, bench or in a chair. Many people alternate between a chair and a cushion or bench.
There are plenty of chairs available at the retreat center. TCVC provides some cushions and benches, but not enough for the whole group. If you wish to sit on the floor, you’ll need to bring your own large square zabuton or heavy folded blanked to put beneath your pillow or bench.
What is Noble Silence?
With the practice of noble silence throughout the retreat center, yogis are expected to refrain from visual, verbal and written communication with each other. This helps to maintain the precious gift of solitude, even while among many other meditators. You’ll also be encouraged to take care with the noise of opening and closing of doors, and other activities.
We ask that you make arrangements for someone outside the retreat to handle any communications you may need to take care of during this time. In this way, you can maintain the integrity of your own practice and protect the retreat environment for everyone else as well.
Please give St. Anthony Spirituality Center’s phone number, 715-443-2236, to a family member or close friend to use in case of emergency so there will be no need for you to check your cell phone.
You can find more information on our Handout on Noble Silence. (Copies of this document are also available at the retreat.)
What Should I Bring?
Towels and bed linen are provided, though feel free to bring your own.
Be comfortable: loose fitting, comfortable clothing for sitting and outer wear for walking out doors. You may want a blanket to put over your shoulders or on your lap while meditating.
In summer: umbrella, sunhat. It can be quite cool in June so bring some warmer clothes too.
In winter: boots, indoor walking shoes or slippers to help keep the floors clean and dry.
Other: shampoo/conditioner, toothbrush/toothpaste, personal toiletries, and optionally a water bottle, alarm clock, watch and flashlight.
Please don’t use strongly scented lotion, soap, shampoo, perfume, incense or essential oils. There are several people in our community with severe chemical sensitivities.
TCVC has some meditation cushions but not enough for the whole group. Bring your own if you can. Bring a floor pad if you use one. Chairs are available in the hall for sitting.
Bring your checkbook if you intend to offer dana.
Don’t forget your sense of humor!
For More Information
Please don’t hesitate to discuss any questions you may have with the registrar or manager of the retreat. We want to make your retreat as rewarding as possible. We look forward to serving you.