A writing retreat for all

Zen practice invites us to cultivate an open mind that includes all and excludes nothing, here and now, in the heart of our life. This openness allows us to experience things as they are, in all their fullness, and brings us to discover our own innate creativity. 

This is where the Zen art of writing arises naturally, in the heart of the present moment. 

In this weeklong program, through the foundation of meditation and a variety of writing propositions and readings, we explore the essential quality of ever-changing moment-to-moment presence and the expression of it in words.

No previous writing or meditation experience is required.

Programme

Each day includes collective meditation and writing sessions, as well as group discussions and sharing of writing. Weather permitting, there may be outdoor writing sessions and group hikes. All participants are offered the opportunity to meet individually with the teacher.   

Please bring all necessarywriting materials.

Practical

Arrival day (21st October, Saturday): Orientation talk at 8 pm. You’re invited to come from 4 pm in order to register and settle in your room. Dinner is served at 6.45 pm.

End of program (26th October, Thursday): Closing circle and Banquet in the evening.

Departure day (27th October, Friday): You may leave anytime (no program). You’re welcome to stay for breakfast.

This programme is taught only in French. No translation service in other languages.

Programme price

Regular350 €
Patron458 €
Under 30 years of age175 €

Accommodation and food

Full board50 €/ night *

* includes standard accommodation and all meals.

Price information

  • Regular: this is the regular price for participating in the programme. Occasionaly (if specified in the programme description), there may be an additional fee for materials, to be paid upon arrival.
  • Patron: for those who can offer more than the regular price, your generosity in paying the Patron Price helps cover the costs for others who are not able to pay the full programme price and provides support to Dechen Chöling.
  • Under 30 years of age: 50% reduction on the regular programme price for persons under 30 years at the start of the programme.

Accommodation: the standard accommodation we provide is in a dormitory for the winter and a furnished two-person tent in the summer. Extra fees for room upgrades can be paid upon arrival. Additionally, room tax will be charged at 0.20 € per person, per night.

See the full price list

Note: participation in any programme offered by the association of Dechen Chöling requires you to be up-to-date with the association’s annual fee (15 €), which can be settled upon arrival.