The Way of Zen: Timeless Spring

The Way of Zen: Timeless Spring is open to experienced and new practitioners.

Experience an accessible Zen practice built around seeing your life with fresh eyes, letting go of needing all the answers, and finding depth in ordinary moments. Taught apart from ritual or cultural context with a focus on practical tools you can actually use, this retreat supports building a sustainable practice through daily guided and silent meditation so you can return to daily life with a clear, steady sense of presence.

Timeless Spring helps you access the source of renewal that exists within you at this very moment. In Zen, the “timeless spring” represents a mind that is naturally fresh, awake, and unburdened by the past—a state of being that is independent of external circumstances or seasonal changes. By stepping beyond rigid cultural rituals, traditional forms, and historical Japanese context, this retreat strips Zen down to its universal essence. The objective is to help you discover immense depth in the ordinary and return to your daily life with a clear, unshakeable sense of presence.

What You Will Learn & Practice

The Practice of Zazen: Master the foundational Zen meditation practice of Zazen (seated meditation). You will approach it not as a religious ritual, but as a practical, accessible tool for radical presence. Cultivating Beginner’s Mind (Shoshin): Learn to approach your life, your relationships, and your challenges free from past conditioning, seeing the world with fresh eyes and endless possibility. Embracing the “Not-Knowing” Mind: Discover the profound freedom of letting go of the need to have all the answers. By resting in “not-knowing,” you dissolve chronic anxiety and open the door to deep, intuitive wisdom. The Depth of Simplicity: Practice finding the extraordinary inside the mundane, transforming daily activities like eating, walking, and resting into moments of vibrant awareness.

What to Expect from the Experience

Accessible, Universal Guidance: Clear instructions that bypass esoteric language and cultural barriers, focusing entirely on direct, personal insight. Rhythmic Meditation Blocks: Daily guided and silent Zazen sessions designed to help you settle a busy mind and build a sustainable, independent practice.

Registration closes on March 4th, 2027.
If joining after this date, please contact us.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THIS RETREAT

ABOUT SILENT RETREATS & SEE A SAMPLE SCHEDULE.

This is a silent mindfulness retreat, alternating sitting and walking meditation, instruction, dharma talks, work meditation, and practice discussion with the teachers.

GENEROSITY: RETREAT COST AND FEES

We strive to keep our retreats as financially accessible as possible. Your registration fee directly supports BBRC’s operations, covering your lodging, meals, and our dedicated staff. Teaching compensation is also included in your fees for this retreat.

IS COST A BARRIER?
Scholarships are available for those with reviewed, demonstrated financial need. Due to limited funds, not all requests can be honored. Contact guestservices@bigbearretreatcenter.org for more information

SIMPLE YET COMFORTABLE, NESTLED IN NATURE

Preparing for your retreat

We offer several resources and information to best help you plan your time on retreat with us.

Getting to BBRC

We have several resources to support your travel. Visit Getting to BBRC & Rideshares and Shuttles for more.

Accommodations

We offer several lodging choices nestled in nature for each retreat.

Meals

Our meals are freshly prepared to support your retreat experience.

FEEL WELCOME AND INCLUDED: A PLACE TO BELONG

Our goal is to create a deeply inclusive space where everyone feels welcome. Whatever your race, gender, sexuality, ability, or background, it is our heartfelt wish to provide a space where you belong.

As you plan your trip, please consider our unique environment:

• We are at 6,500 feet of elevation in a mountain town that experiences all four seasons.

• Our facilities are spread across a hillside, with outdoor walkways between buildings.

• We are located two hours from LA and near three major airports. Learn more about getting here.

• We are committed to accessibility. Please contact us to discuss any ADA needs.

Check out our Planning Your Retreat page for more resources, and contact us if we can help you prepare for your stay.

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