Traditional “Intensive” Retreat
Traditional “Intensive” Retreat Programs
We also offer traditional intensive Chan-3 and Chan-7 retreat programs. Chan-7, a.k.a. 7-Day Retreat, is the most demanding and also the most beneficial retreat. The participants spend all seven days in the retreat center and fully comply with monastic standards of practice. Silence is strictly enforced at all times during the retreat in order to reach the ultimate goal – enlightenment.
In the traditional perspective, “seven” refers to the seventh consciousness, the ego. With the ego, people are self-centered and always think for themselves. Ego is the source of all troubles, and “seven” is intended to remove it.
Chan-3, a 3-day retreat, takes place within Chan-7. It follows exactly the same methods and standards as Chan-7, except it is shortened to only 3 days. Participants are subject to the approval from Abbot. Both retreat programs are intended for experienced and regular Zen meditation practitioners.
