Cultivating the Wise Heart: Practicing the Divine Abodes

This silent meditation retreat at Drala Mountain Center in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado, is devoted to the four Divine Abodes: lovingkindness, compassion, joy and equanimity. Known in Pali as the Brahmaviharas, and in the Tibetan tradition as the Four Immeasurables, they are taught here as four expressions of the awakened heart. Donald Rothberg, Ph.D., a senior insight meditation teacher, leads the week, which draws on both Theravada and Tibetan Buddhist approaches.

The retreat is open to beginners and experienced practitioners alike. No one needs to call themselves a Buddhist to take part.

What to Expect

Over seven nights, the days alternate between silent sitting meditation and walking meditation. Core instructions in each of the four practices are offered, along with dharma talks, discussion, regular practice meetings with the teacher, and daily Qigong. The aim is to strengthen clear seeing, self-acceptance, steadiness of mind and heart, generosity of spirit and skillful action. In the last part of the retreat, the teaching turns to bringing these practices into daily life, including difficult moments in relationships, work, community, and efforts at social change.

The daily rhythm is steady. Mornings begin at 6:30 with Qigong and sitting meditation, followed by breakfast. Seated and walking meditation or individual practice meetings run from 9:15 until lunch at 12:30. Afternoons, from 2:30 to 5:30, are given to seated and walking meditation and lovingkindness practice. After dinner, the evening session from 7:00 to 9:30 brings walking meditation, a dharma talk and chanting. The first day is for registration, orientation, dinner and an opening session. On the last morning the schedule follows the usual morning pattern through lunch, and the retreat closes in the early afternoon.

Silence is meant to deepen inner focus. It can feel strange at first, and most people settle into it quickly. Attending all sessions is generally expected, especially those with instruction and teaching, though there is room for individual consultation so the retreat can work for each person. Newcomers receive plenty of individual guidance and are encouraged to go at their own pace, without pushing.

About Donald Rothberg

Donald Rothberg, Ph.D., is on the Teachers Council at Spirit Rock in California. He has practiced insight meditation since 1976 and has also trained in Tibetan Dzogchen, psychotherapy and trauma work. He teaches worldwide on insight meditation, lovingkindness, transforming the judgmental mind, mindful communication and socially engaged Buddhism. Students describe him as clear, well organized and humorous, with deep knowledge of both the Theravada and Tibetan traditions.

The Setting

The retreat takes place at Drala Mountain Center in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado. Lodging is part of registration, and several kinds of rooms are available:

- Dormitories: gender-segregated rooms for up to seven or eight people, with a shared bathroom and showers down the hall.
- Monk rooms: private rooms with a bed, closet, large window and desk, using a shared bathroom.
- Single and double rooms: more space, a dresser and closet, and an attached bathroom with toilet, sink and shower.
- Junior suites: a queen-size bed, desk, dresser, closet, sitting area and private bath with a tub.

All meals and drinks are included, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. Extra nights can be added at half price.

Before You Go

The retreat is taught in English and is open to all levels. Registration covers seven nights of lodging and all meals. The teaching itself is offered on dana, the generosity-based practice of supporting teachers that has been traditional since the time of the Buddha, so participants give what they are able to support both the teacher and the teaching. Transportation to and from the retreat center is not included.

Arrival is in the afternoon of the first day, with registration running from 2:00 to 5:00 PM.