THE MEASURE OF OUR HUMANITY: with Terry Tempest Williams at Upaya

Join us for an intimate spiritual workshop experience with acclaimed author and environmental philosopher Terry Tempest Williams at Upaya, a contemplative retreat center in Santa Fe. On Sunday, November 15, 2026, this transformative gathering explores "The Measure of Our Humanity"—an invitation to examine our deepest values, our relationship with the natural world, and what it truly means to live with integrity and compassion. This spiritual workshop event brings together a thoughtful community of seekers, activists, and contemplatives for a day of reflection, dialogue, and renewal.

Terry Tempest Williams, known for her lyrical prose and fierce environmental advocacy, will guide participants through a spiritual workshop that blends personal storytelling with philosophical inquiry. Her distinctive voice—weaving together memoir, natural history, and spiritual practice—creates a rare opportunity to explore how we measure what matters most in our lives. This isn't a lecture, but rather an interactive spiritual workshop where your own inner wisdom is honored and awakened.

The atmosphere at Upaya during this event is intentionally spacious and contemplative. You'll find yourself among others who are curious, thoughtful, and committed to living more consciously. This local spiritual workshop event honors both introspection and community, creating a container where authentic dialogue becomes possible.

What to Expect

Arrive early to settle into the Upaya campus and allow yourself to transition into a more spacious, reflective state. The morning begins with a welcoming circle, where you'll meet fellow participants and tune into the day's theme. As you're seated in the light-filled meditation hall, you'll feel the weight of daily concerns begin to lift.

Terry Tempest Williams will share selected essays and personal narratives that examine our humanity through the lens of nature, activism, and spiritual practice. Her words—carefully chosen and delivered with authentic presence—invite you to question, feel, and discover new dimensions of meaning. Throughout this spiritual workshop experience, you're encouraged to listen deeply, take notes, and sit with whatever arises.

The day includes guided reflection periods, small-group discussions, and ample space for questions and dialogue. You'll leave this spiritual workshop event with renewed perspective, practical wisdom, and connections with others navigating similar questions about how to live meaningfully in challenging times.

About the Artists

Terry Tempest Williams is a celebrated author, conservationist, and spiritual teacher whose work has touched millions. With books like Refuge, When Women Were Birds, and Finding Beauty in a Broken World, Williams explores the intersection of personal resilience, environmental justice, and spiritual practice. Her unique voice combines lyrical storytelling with unflinching honesty, making complex philosophical and ecological themes accessible and deeply moving. At this spiritual workshop event, she brings her full presence and wisdom.

Michael Pollan is an influential writer and educator whose rigorous exploration of food systems, agriculture, and our relationship with nature has reshaped public conversation. Through books like The Omnivore's Dilemma and How to Change Your Mind, Pollan demonstrates how intimate our connection is with the natural world—from the food we eat to the plants we cultivate. His thoughtful, investigative approach complements the spiritual workshop's larger inquiry into what truly sustains us.

Venue & Location

Upaya Zen Center is nestled in the foothills north of Santa Fe, New Mexico, offering a serene retreat from urban life while remaining easily accessible. The center's adobe architecture, contemplative gardens, and mountain views create an ideal setting for a spiritual workshop event focused on deepening awareness and reconnection. The campus feels intentionally separate from distractions, yet the local Santa Fe community can reach it within 15 minutes.

Parking is available on-site, and the space is designed to accommodate both local and visiting participants. Whether you're arriving from across town or traveling to Santa Fe specifically for this spiritual workshop, you'll find the venue welcoming and well-organized.