Beginner’s Mind: A Daylong Retreat with Henry
Saturday March 8, 2025
10am-4pm PT
At the Topa Institute Retreat Center in Ojai, CA
In-person
Living with the uncertainties of being human
Zen was forged in catastrophic times. In the midst of a civil war that reduced the population of ancient China by more than half, the Zen poet Du Fu wrote:
The nation is shattered
Mountains and rivers remain
By coming back to our original mind — the mind of a true beginner not yet set in its assumptions — we can find a responsiveness and flexibility that can help us live with the uncertainties of being human.
In this retreat open to all levels of meditation experience, we will come together to explore what beginner’s mind actually is, how to find it, and learn tools that can help us tap into it when we most need it.
Renew and deepen your practice
At this special one-day retreat, we gather in the beautiful, fabled Topa Institute in Ojai, where we’ll rest our minds, restore an overtaxed nervous system, and renew and deepen our meditation practice.
This is a rare chance to gather for anyone interested in meditation, and especially for students of The Way and followers of Henry’s teachings. Days of shared practice are a powerful way to deepen our meditative experience. Just being quiet and still together can break down old patterns of thought and feeling, heal an anxious heart and revive and encourage us on the path of practice.
A day of connection and relaxation
Along with teachings, guided meditations and shared silence, there will be plenty of time to connect with fellow students and relax in the beautiful grounds of the center.
Community is one of the three key “refuges” of practice — this day is a special time to meet and connect with other practitioners, and to renew your own practice.
Find serenity amidst Ojai’s natural beauty
Nestled in the serene landscape of Ojai, California, the Topa Institute Retreat Center offers a sanctuary for creativity, learning, and connection. Known for its breathtaking surroundings and tranquil atmosphere, Topa is a space where individuals come together to explore, grow, and create meaningful experiences.
A Daylong Retreat in Ojai
- Guided meditations, talks, and poetry to help deepen your practice
- Live Q&A time with Henry
- Become a subscriber to The Way App and enjoy an additional 20% discount! To access your discount, sign up for this retreat via the app (click here on your mobile)
Event Details
Cost: $195 (includes lunch & refreshments)
When: Saturday March 8, 10am – 4pm PT
Where: Topa Institute, 9739 Ojai Santa Paula Rd, Ojai, CA, 93023
Become a subscriber to The Way App and enjoy an additional 20% discount! To access your discount, sign up for this retreat via the app (click here on your mobile).
Questions?
If you have any questions about this retreat, please contact our programs manager, Jeremy. We’re happy to answer any questions and look forward to having you join us!
What to bring
Please bring layers appropriate to the day’s weather. Topa Institute recommends bringing a water bottle and sun protection as well. We will have chairs available for everyone. If you’d like to bring a favorite meditation cushion, you’re welcome to do so.
Lunch & Refreshments
A tasty and healthy lunch will be provided, with chicken, vegetarian, and GF dietary options. You are also welcome to bring your own lunch.
Coffee, tea, and water will be provided throughout the day (please bring your own water bottle for drinking water).
Transportation
Topa Institute recommends using Google Maps for directions to the retreat center: 9739 Ojai Santa Paula Rd, Ojai, CA, 93023
Scholarships
We warmly welcome you to contact us if a scholarship would allow you to attend this retreat. Please contact our programs manager Jeremy for details about how to apply.
About your teacher
Henry Shukman
Henry is an authorized Zen Master in the Sanbo Zen lineage, the co-founder of The Way meditation app, and the Spiritual Director Emeritus of Mountain Cloud Zen Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico. In addition to teaching meditation, Henry is an award-winning author and poet. His struggles and traumatic experiences as a youth, combined with a spontaneous awakening experience at 19, paved the way for Henry to develop a well-rounded approach to healing and awakening through meditation.
