Guidelines for participating

1. If you haven't used Zoom before, please check out these tips for testing and using this platform before the retreat. I'll open the Zoom meeting room 15 minutes before the retreat and we'll plan to start right at 9:30 am.

2. Minimize distractions during the retreat

· To support yourself and other participants, plan to give the workshop your full attention

· Join from a quiet place where you can focus, not while driving or walking.

· Put away other devices and disable notifications

3. One of our morning practices will be an invitation to meditate lying down. You might want to have some blankets and pillows nearby so you can create a cozy spot for yourself.

4. We'll have both journaling and reflection exercises where you'll be invited to write or type your thoughts. If you'd like to write on a paper journal, please have your supplies nearby.

5. We'll have a lunch break from noon to 1 pm. If your situation allows, it can be beneficial to maintain mindful silence during that time as you eat, rest, or take a walk.

6. Engage in the retreat with your video on during sharing periods

· Unless you have limited internet bandwidth, please leave your video on to create a sense of togetherness and attention during periods of sharing

· If something comes up, please “step away” by muting video

· You may wish to turn off your video during meditation periods

7. Practice mindful listening without feedback, fixing, or judgement during all discussions

· During the workshop, we will engage in plenary and small group discussions during which participants will ask questions or share experiences.

· It is important to each person’s growth and space that we practice presence for his/her experience and sharing without adding our own perspective.

· It is an equally important practice to experience mindful listening, where we are fully present for another person’s sharing while attending to the reactions that arise in our mind and body.