Finding Clarity of Mind in Nature
A Meditation Retreat in the Natural World
Unplug, Slow Down, & Reconnect
In a world dominated by screens, noise, and endless notifications, it’s easy to feel disconnected—not just from nature, but from ourselves. This immersive retreat is your chance to step away from the digital chaos and rediscover clarity, presence, and connection in the natural setting of beautiful, rural Vermont.
Together, we’ll settle in and relax, to experience life fully. Through meditation, mindful movement, and outdoor exploration, we’ll tap into a deeper sense of peace, inspiration, and belonging.
Why Nature?
Science backs what ancient traditions have always known: spending time in nature heals. “Forest bathing” has been proven to reduce stress, boost mental clarity, and enhance overall well-being. Throughout history, seekers have turned to the wild for wisdom, insight, and renewal. Now, it’s your turn.
What to Expect
Indoor & Outdoor Activities
Engage in a mix of guided practices, meaningful discussions, and community experiences designed to calm the mind and open the heart.
- Lhasang Smoke Offering – A ritual to honor the land and set intentions
- Guided Meditation & Teachings – Learn meditation techniques to cultivate mindfulness and stillness
- Tibetan Yoga (Lujong) & Tai Chi – Embodiment through contemplative movement and balancing energy
- Nature Walks & Hiking – Mindfulness-in-motion while out in the world
- Outdoor Meditation – Quiet awareness, surrounded by the beauty of the natural world
- Bonfires & Poetry Readings – The ancient tradition of gathering around the fire in community
- Night Walks & Stargazing – Reconnect with the vastness of the universe
What You'll Gain
- A sense of inner peace and mental clarity
- Tools to manage stress and cultivate mindfulness in daily life
- A deeper connection with nature and yourself
- A vibrant, like-minded community
- Inspiration to keep exploring—inside and out
When you leave to go home, you’ll carry the stillness, inspiration, and magic of this weekend with you—ready to integrate it into your life.
Student Discounts: Young people and students are encouraged to attend the program. Karmê Chöling offers full-time student discounts, scholarships and other financial aid.
Pricing
Karmê Chöling values its commitment to making programs affordable and available to all who wish to study with us. To support this commitment we provide two program price options.
Generosity Price: $265.00
You're able to help us with this commitment by choosing the "Generosity Price". The money above the basic tuition cost goes into a scholarship fund for those who might not be able to attend a program otherwise.
Tuition: $220.00
This is the price of the program, it does not include housing options or material fees.
Please Note:
Price does not include accommodations, which will be added during the registration process.
Policies
Payment Policies:
Please read the payment policy before proceeding with registration.
Financial Aid:
Karmê Chöling offers full-time student discounts, scholarships and other financial aid.
Program Credit:
If using existing program credit to pay for a program, you must pre-register for this program at least two weeks prior to the program start date by calling the front desk (802-633-2384 x3000). Program credit may not be used to pay for housing or practice materials and may not be used on or after arrival day.
Instructor
Nick Vail is a longtime student of Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche, and a Karunika (teacher) for the Nalandabodhi sangha. He has almost thirty years of experience with meditation and a Master of Arts degree in Indo-Tibetan Buddhism and Tibetan Language. He is a member of the Nitartha Translation Network, and has published several Tibetan translations. He's the Co-Director of Karmapa Center 16, and has been teaching Buddhist philosophy, psychology, and meditation for decades.
He is a certified Wilderness First Responder, accredited by the Wilderness Medical Associates International, and enjoys being in nature, meditating, t'ai chi chuan, archery, foraging, gardening, brewing, singing, playing the guitar, kayaking, and spending time with his family on the rugged coast of Maine.
Learn more and read his articles at mindpioneer.com
Scholarships are available for this program.
Instructor:
Nick Vail
Date & Time Details:
Location:
On-Land
Program Fee:
Generosity Price - $265
Tuition - $220
Room/Meals Fee:
This will be added in during the registration process.
View accommodations
Heart Gift:
Donation gift to the teacher.
Make a heart gift
Wellness Update:
Read our Wellness Policy
Getting to Karmê Chöling:
Contact Us:
Karmê Chöling
(802) 633-2384
info@karmecholing.org
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