Luminous Darkness: The Power of Embracing the Unknown

Open to both beginning and experienced practitioners.
Registration for this retreat closes on October 17, 2025 at 11:59pm Pacific Time. If looking to join after this date, please inquire at guestservices@bigbearretreatcenter.org

We often think of the darkness as an absence of light, but the darkness–we discover through meditation practice–has its own enlightening power. Darkness reveals the unknown and embodies depth, making space for new discoveries, insight and transformation.

This autumn, join Deborah Eden Tull as we take a walk on the dark side, exploring the power of our shadow, our challenges and our adversities to awaken us to new levels of insight and depth. We will explore, through practice and reflection, how to meet the unknown with presence, curiosity and serenity, and how to move from fearing the darkness to embracing it.

We will engage with practices of meditation under the brilliant Big Bear night sky, in the shadows (both literally and metaphorically), and in our beloved meditation hall.

This retreat will be held in a container of silence, and in addition to sitting meditation and dharma talks, we will also engage in conscious movement, relational mindfulness, and deep time in nature.

HEAR MORE ABOUT THIS PROGRAM AND TEACHERS

This retreat center is by far the best one I have ever been to. Intimate setting, nestled in the mountains with gorgeous views and hiking trails. For a small retreat center, they attract top teachers.

WHAT IS A RELATIONAL RETREAT?

Mindfulness and nature-based Relational Retreats and Workshop Intensives at BBRC are a different style of retreat than a silent meditation retreat. They are more interactive while still holding similar themes of connection with self, each other, and nature. The intention is to cultivate a mindful awareness that can be integrated into our everyday lives. Read more here on what to expect and sample schedule.

GENEROSITY

Retreat Cost & Fees:
More information coming soon.

FEEL WELCOME AND INCLUDED: A PLACE TO BELONG

Our intention is to be as accessible as we can, even in ways that we may not be aware of yet. We hope this is a space of inclusivity where people feel welcome and held. For us, it is a practice of consistent attunement, presence and care to our community. However you identify – race, gender, sexuality, disability, mental health, and so on – it is our wish to meet your needs for belonging.

Please consider this about our environment:

• The center is on a hill with outdoor walkways between dining, gathering, and residential spaces.
• We are located at an elevation of 6,500 feet altitude in a ski town in the mountains of Southern California.
• We experience weather of all four seasons.
• We are located about 2 hours from Los Angeles and near 3 major airports. Learn more about getting here.
• We have a commitment to everyone’s mobility needs. Please contact us about ADA accessibility.

See our FAQs for more detailed information on accessibility to our campus and programs.

SIMPLE YET COMFORTABLE, NESTLED IN NATURE

Simple and elegant lodgings to support rest and renewal. Our rooms are uniquely designed to offer comfort, convenience, and simplicity. All of our cabins are surrounded by nature with forest sights and sounds. Lodgings are a short walk from spaces for dining and gathering. See a video tour of a cabin.

Our Meditation Hall is spaciously designed to provide an atmosphere that feels deeply integrated with nature and the surrounding forest. The versatile space is conducive for meditation, movement, workshops, training, and other community gatherings.

Food that nourishes to support healing, restoration, and community. Our organic and seasonally inspired menus feature creative and nourishing vegetarian meals, tailored to support meditative practices. We use fresh and locally-sourced ingredients when possible. Lunch is the most substantial meal of the day and dinner is lighter. Our indoor and outdoor dining hall is open 24/7 with self-service coffee, tea and healthy snack options.

HEAR MORE ABOUT BIG BEAR RETREAT CENTER

Big Bear Retreat Center is exceptional in every way. The accommodations are outstanding, food exceptional, staff very responsive and helpful and the teachers are always so loving and knowledgeable. Just a top notch retreat experience!! – Sheila

I love Big Bear Retreat Center. It’s my dharma home away from home. Everything about it – staff, teachers, food, accommodations, setting – is exceptional. A true gift to the community!!

Big Bear Retreat Center is indeed a refuge. A safe space to open your heart. – Laura