Have you ever thought about the ultimate true reality of life? The Sixth Patriarch Hui-Neng said that our self-nature is intrinsically self-sufficient, non-arising and non-perishing, and able to manifest all things. Why is this not apparent to us? We address the realization of this true reality when we investigate Chan. We use one of two approaches for Chan investigation. The first is called Huatou Chan, while the second is called Silent Illumination Chan. With these methods we may experience the mind as it is before thoughts arise. In this retreat, a Master’s help may be used to enhance the progress of Chan inquiry. This Chan (Zen) retreat is an inward investigative journey, a quest to know more about ourselves in order to discover our “true self” and manifest our inherent “wisdom and compassion.”
If you know someone who feels weighed down by the struggles of daily life, or is trying to untangle the knots of the self, please consider sharing information about this upcoming retreat. We are filled with gratitude that Beishi Guohan will return to offer his humble guidance this summer. Rooted firmly in the ancient wisdom of Chan and Zen masters, the practice he shares is aimed towards awakening and manifesting the compassion and wisdom already hidden within each of us through a practice of taming one’s mind and one’s habits. We both choose to host these retreats because the practice offered by Beishi Guohan shows us how to meet life’s challenges, as well as the storms and turmoil of daily life, with a presence that offers a growing peace and meaning to our own lives. We see the incremental benefits of practice in our own relationships. We wish to pass that gift of a growing inner stillness and centeredness along to others who may be searching for the same peace.
Dana to cover food costs is appreciated. If you feel like giving more, one can pay ahead for others. Meals will be vegetarian. Accommodation will be preferably tenting on the premises to minimize external distractions as much as possible. A few extra tents will be made available if you don’t have one. There are also a few beds available indoors as well as space on the floor. If you would prefer to bring your own trailer or camper there is some room on the property. If you live in the Valley you are welcome to commute from your home.
Daily practice will include sitting meditation, mindful exercise, direct contemplation in the garden or at the ocean, forest or beach walking meditation and daily kitchen/garden/cleaning working meditation. Guohan will again be offering Dharma talks and will be available for one-on-one discussions to help you on your journey.
These are silent retreats, so we do ask participants to refrain from talking.
- The Leader: Beishi Guohan
- Dates: July 3-11, 2026
- Place: Courtenay, B.C., Canada
- Registration: sealbaymeditation@gmail.com or Facebook event page
