A Mindful Mahjong Retreat

A Mindful Mahjong Retreat is a five-day wellness retreat at the Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, New York, that brings together American mahjong and mindfulness practice. It is open to complete beginners and seasoned players alike, and it is built around learning, play, and community as much as strategy. Elva Grosman and Jami Josephson-Chace, cofounders of Let's Play Mahjong LLC, lead the mahjong instruction, joined by Diane Barnett and Catherine Barrett of Grounded Meditation for the mindfulness sessions.

What to Expect

Participants choose one of two tracks. The beginner bootcamp moves through Mahjong 101, 102, and 103, starting with the tiles and suits, then the National Mah Jongg League card and the Charleston, with the aim of sitting down to play a full game on your own by the end. The advanced strategy lab is for experienced players who want a more defensive mindset: reading the table, interpreting discards, calculating hand-section probabilities, anticipating opponents' moves, and knowing when and how to pivot as a game unfolds.

Learning happens through interactive clinics, guided table play, and real-time practice. A mentor mixer pairs beginners with experienced players to share skills and build confidence, and the retreat is designed to be multigenerational.

Mindfulness sessions are open to everyone. You practice a "10-second reset" for high-pressure moments, work with tools for focus and emotional regulation, and learn healthy ergonomic habits for comfortable seated play. The format is physically gentle: seated gameplay, light stretching, and guided meditation.

The week begins with check-in on Sunday afternoon. Workshop sessions run from 9:00 a.m. to noon each day from Monday through Friday, with afternoon sessions from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Wednesday afternoon is open. Check-out is at 1:00 p.m. on Friday. The faculty may adjust the schedule.

About the Faculty

Elva Grosman is a cofounder of Let's Play Mahjong LLC, a retired teacher, an actress, and a mahjong enthusiast.

Jami Josephson-Chace is a cofounder of Let's Play Mahjong LLC and a Broadway performer who also teaches mahjong.

Diane Barnett is the founder of Grounded Meditation and teaches meditation and sound healing. Together with Catherine Barrett, she brings expertise in emotional regulation, healthy seated habits, and competition stress reduction.

Catherine Barrett teaches accessible meditation, sound healing, Reiki, and pranayama.

The Setting

The retreat takes place at Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, in New York's Hudson Valley. Accommodation is booked separately and ranges from cabin rooms with private or shared baths to dorm beds, tent cabins, and campsites. Stays include meals and use of campus facilities, such as optional classes, walking trails, and parking. Commuters register separately, and that registration also covers meals and facilities.

Before You Go

No prior mahjong or meditation experience is needed. Beginners should bring curiosity and an open mind. Advanced players should bring their current year's National Mah Jongg League card. All gameplay materials, custom tile sets, and tournament prizes are provided. A questionnaire is sent after registration, and the organizers ask that you complete it promptly.