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HomeTassajaraGuest SeasonRetreats Creative Expression: Visual Arts, Writing, Improvisation

Writing as a Path to Awakening: A Zen Mindfulness & Creativity Retreat

Related Information
Do-On Robert Thomas
Albert Flynn DeSilver
With Albert Flynn DeSilver and Do-On Robert Thomas
August 18-22 (Sunday - Thursday)

Join us for an extraordinary week of mindful creativity and awaken to your true nature through the practice of writing.


Writing is one of our most powerful points of attention as human beings, and when we focus our attention toward the realms of the possible, our lives become a living expression of possibility. The practice of writing is an exploration of consciousness and a practice toward deeper self-awareness, moving us along the path to our true nature. Many of the world’s greatest spiritual teachers were--and are--writers, and we will reflect on their gifts as we explore our own throughout the day. From Sappho in the 7th century BC, to Pema Chodron—from Rumi in the 13th century to Thomas Merton, Jack Kornfield, and the Dalai Lama—the written word has the power not only to inspire, but to awaken.

The days will include sitting meditation, writing exercises, readings, standing meditation, Q&A, and discussion to explore and inspire our innate creativity and deeper levels of awareness through the
practice of writing and listening to words.

Open to poets and to fiction and non-fiction writers with some introductory writing experience and a commitment to writing and meditation practice.

Retreat fee: $310 ($264/member)


Related Bio(s):

Do-On Robert Thomas

Do-On Robert Thomas was ordained by Zoketsu Norman Fischer in 2000, and received Dharma Transmission from him in 2009. Robert’steachings focus on the practical benefits of Zen meditation for people from all walks of life. In 2012, Robert became a visiting dharma teacher at Upaya Zen Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico.


Albert Flynn DeSilver

Albert Flynn DeSilver is an internationally published poet, author, teacher, speaker, and writing coach. He served as Marin County California’s very first Poet Laureate from 2008-2010. His latest book is Beamish Boy (I Am Not My Story): A Memoir of Recovery & Awakening. He presents at conferences and workshops nationally, has taught in the Teen and Family Program at Spirit Rock Meditation Center since 2005, and has practiced Vipassana and other forms of meditation for more than eighteen years.