Delight the Natural Heart

Nature is an active, dynamic force that reflects and embodies the principles of dharma. The Buddha and early monks and nuns spent much of their time practicing in direct relationship with forests, living creatures, the elements, and the rhythms of the world. There was no false sense of separation and insight arose from this intimacy.

In this outdoor retreat, we will explore the qualities of the Brahmavihāras (Kindess, Compassion, Appreciative Joy, and Equanimity). These qualities can be accessible and heart opening, yet at times the practices to develop these qualities can feel dry and disconnected. In this Buddhist based retreat we will explore these Brahmavihāras outside in connection with place, with human and other-than-human nature.

The Brahmaviharas are also wisdom practices and we will be exploring both the heart and wisdom aspects of practice. Held in relationship with the elements, this retreat incorporates practices of walking, standing, sitting, and lying down. There are daily dharma talks, meditation guidance, small group practice discussions, and Question and Response time.

While this retreat will be held mostly in silence, there will be time at the beginning and ending of the retreat to intentionally connect with other retreatants. During the retreat, you will be asked to refrain from using cell phones, computers or accessing the internet in order to fully engage with the experience.

About the Retreat

Location: Dharma Treasure Retreat Center, Cochise, AZ. We will be practicing outdoors, weather permitting, among the trees and rocks in relationship with nature,.

Dates: Nov 22 - 29, 2025

Registration:

Who is this retreat for:

This retreat is for beginners and experienced practitioners interested in cultivating the heart-mind qualities of the Brahmaviharas.

Cost:

The retreat fee includes housing and food and use of the retreat facilities. The teacher does not receive any compensation from the fees. This structure is based on the practice of Dana, a Pali word meaning generosity. At the end of the retreat you will be given the opportunity to offer a donation to the teacher and to FIMC. Your financial support allows Robin to continue to offer these teachings and FIMC to offer future retreats.

Robin Craig is a Teacher in The Mind Illuminated tradition, which is rooted in Theravadan and Tibetan Karma Kagyu traditions with lineage to the Venerable Ananda Bodhi. She is also a Licensed Professional Counselor and on the Faculty of Organic Intelligence®.

Robin has a deep relationship to Cochise Stronghold, connecting with the land and the unfolding of practice over many years. She brings her understanding of the physiology of resilience to her meditation and counseling practices, and supports a joyful exploration of the deep spirituality and interconnection that is ours by nature.

For additional nature retreats with other Nature Dharma teachers see www.skymindretreats.org

On group retreat, we have the following cancellation policy:

• 60 days prior to retreat: Full refund, minus a $200 cancellation fee
• 60-20 days prior to retreat: Half refund
• 20 days or less prior to retreat: No refunds