Foundations of Meditation
In 1972
Retreat Center
4k Retreats
Program Details
Program Start Date & Time: August 15th | 5:30 pm
Program End Date & Time: August 17th | 12:30 pm
Are you curious about Buddhism and how its teachings can bring more peace and clarity to your life? This three-day retreat offers a welcoming introduction to the foundational principles of Buddhism, providing insight into its core teachings, meditation practices, and practical applications for daily living.
Through guided teachings, meditation sessions, and open discussions, participants will explore fundamental Buddhist concepts such as mindfulness, compassion, impermanence, and the nature of suffering. Experienced teachers will offer practical ways to integrate these teachings into everyday life, helping to cultivate greater awareness, kindness, and inner balance. The retreat also includes time for personal reflection, silent practice, and connection with a like-minded community in a peaceful and supportive environment.
No prior experience with Buddhism or meditation is required—just a genuine interest in learning and self-discovery. Whether you are completely new to Buddhism or looking to deepen your understanding, this retreat offers a gentle and engaging introduction to its timeless wisdom.
Retreat Faculty
Valerie Lorig, M.Ed, LPC, has practiced and taught Buddhism for over 30 years. A faculty member at Naropa University in the Contemplative Psychology Department, she integrates meditative disciplines with contemplative psychology. Naropa’s founder, Trungpa Rinpoche, empowered her as a holder of the feminine principle. She utilizes this training by teaching experientially as well as intellectually. […]
Valerie Lorig
Rigden Lodge
Rigden Lodge also hosts some of our programs in the Rigden Shrine Room, and has a large common area next to the shrine room where guests can spend their time, make a cup of tea, have conversations, or just relax. Programs may continue in the Shrine Room until up to 10:30 pm each night.
Rigden also boasts a large deck area where you can relax, practice yoga or meditation, or simply enjoy the mountain view.
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Dormitories
The Dormitories in Rigden Lodge offer beds for up to 7-8 people.
The dorms are gender-segregated with men in their own dorm and women in another. The dorms use a shared bathroom down the hall, which is also equipped with shower stalls.
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Monk Rooms
Monk rooms are a cost-effective option for participants looking for indoor, solitary lodging, but who don’t mind using a shared bathroom or are looking for a more affordable retreat solution. These rooms are in the same hall as the Ridgen Dormitories, but offer more privacy than the dorms.
In addition to a bed, bedding, a private room and closet, the monk rooms also have a large window and a desk and desk chair for added comfort.
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Single Rooms
Single rooms are the perfect choice for a retreat where you want both your own space and your own bathroom. Each room offers a little more space, a dresser and closet, and a 3/4s bathroom (toilet, sink, and shower, no bathtub) attached to each room.
Hand soap is provided in all DMC bathrooms but DMC does not provide Shampoo, Conditioner, or Body Soap.
If participants forget their shampoo, conditioner, or other toiletries, there is a small selection available in the DMC gift store.
DiscoverThe Great Stupa of
Dharmakaya
The Great Stupa of Dharmakaya rises above the wooded hills, standing 108 feet tall in Drala Mountain Center’s valley.
Built for Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, it is one of North America’s most significant Buddhist structures, inspiring peace and compassion.
Sacred Studies Hall
A marbled entryway leads to a sunlit hall with bamboo floors and large windows, bringing nature inside. Three breakout rooms and a kitchenette offer space for tea and snacks.
The courtyard and Zen Garden bloom with wildflowers in spring and summer, creating an elegant setting for outdoor receptions.
Check in Instructions
Registration takes place from 2 PM – 5 PM on your program start date.
At check-in, please be prepared to provide photo proof of a negative COVID-19 test with identification from within the last 24 hours.
All participants and volunteer staff must check in at our Guest Services house. Please plan for travel time in order to arrive before 5 PM to check-in and settle into your accommodations.
Guest Services closes at 5 PM, after which an after hours check-in envelope marked with your name will be placed in a basket next to the front door of Guest Services. All relevant lodging and program information will be inside the envelope, including instructions for electronically submitting proof of a negative COVID test.
Your program begins with an orientation, followed by dinner.
