2025 Farming Zen Retreat

Farming Zen Retreat overview and objectives

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The Woodenfish + Unlimited Lights Academy (ULA) “Farming Zen Retreat” offers a unique opportunity to explore simplicity and harmony with the earth and all living beings through the practice of Farming Zen (Chan). Designed for both beginners and those experienced in meditation, this retreat immerses participants in a mindful and peaceful environment, emphasizing the integration of Zen practices into daily life. Participants will engage in farming activities, meditation, and communal living while cultivating a deeper connection to nature.

 

Key Program Elements

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• Daily Meditation Practice: Incorporating both sitting and walking meditation.

• Noble Silence: Silent contemplation to foster inner clarity.

• Gardening & Communal Service: Working together in harmony with the land.

• Vegetarian Cooking: Mindful, sustainable cooking practices.

• Nianfo Chan: Chanting meditation as a path to mindfulness.

• Silent Walking Meditation: A journey to Snow Mountain, followed by solo meditation.

• 2 One-Day Meditation Sessions: Full-day meditation for deep introspection.

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Daily schedule

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• 05:30: Wake-up Call 

• 06:00 - 07:00: Walking & Sitting Meditation 

• 07:15 - 07:45: Breakfast 

• 08:00 - 10:30: Farming Zen

• 11:00 - 11:30: Lunch 

• 11:30 - 13:00: Personal Time (optional walk to farm) 

• 13:00 - 14:00: Meditation 

• 14:00 - 15:30: Farming Zen

• 17:00 - 17:30: Medicine Meal (Dinner) 

• 18:00 - 19:00: Dharma Talk/Group Discussion 

• 19:15 - 20:00: Evening Service (Vespers), Nianfo Chan 

• 20:00 - 21:00: Personal Time 

• 21:00: Lights Out 

 

Program Phases

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• Week 1: Introduction to farming, cooking, retreat duties, and the central themes of simplicity and harmony. 

• Week 2: Progression toward noble silence (during non-work periods), deepening Zen practice. 

• Week 3: Silent walking meditation to Snow Mountain, with solo sitting meditation and continued silence upon return. The retreat concludes with a sharing session.

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Eligibility & Desired Skills

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We welcome applicants from all ages and backgrounds, with a passion for mindfulness, sustainable living, and community service. The following skills and knowledge are highly desired but not mandatory:

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Accommodation

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Participants will stay in separate living quarters for men and women. Meals will be provided, with all participants washing and maintaining their own dishes. Expect to bring practical clothing for gardening and cold weather, including wellington boots and layered attire for cool nights and working days. 

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What to Bring

 

• Clothing: Please bring dark-colored, used clothes suitable for physical work. Winter in Taiwan is beautiful but can be cold, so bring layered clothing to stay warm.

• Footwear: Own rain boots or working boots are required, as farming involves outdoor work in various weather conditions.

• Work Gloves & Hats: These will be provided by the Retreat.

• Allergies: If you have allergies, please inform us in advance, as farming and working with plants can trigger reactions.

• Physical Activity: Be prepared for hands-on work such as gardening, squatting, and lifting, which requires a moderate level of physical fitness. 

 

Note: The Retreat does not have a set uniform, but appropriate work clothes are essential for both comfort and safety.

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COST and Sponsorship 

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Thanks to generous sponsorship from Woodenfish and Unlimited Lights Academy (ULA), the cost of participation, including room, board, and retreat activities, is covered for all accepted participants ensuring that you can focus entirely on the experience. You are only responsible for visa and travel expenses to and from (and within) Taiwan. While the Farming Zen Retreat is fully covered by the Woodenfish + ULA Fellowship, a refundable deposit of $200 USD is required upon acceptance into the program. This deposit will be reimbursed in full after the successful completion of the program.

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• There is a $10 (USD) application fee, non-refundable. 

• Thanks to the generosity of our donors, every accepted student will receive a scholarship that covers room & board, tuition, transportation, and some fees during cultural tours. 

• There is a $200 (USD) administration fee for non-college students. This fee also helps subsidize the cost of our volunteer staffers' airfare and stipends. To be paid after acceptance to the program.

• Participants are also responsible for any travel expenses to and from the program (i.e., flight, visa, etc.) as well as personal expenses during the cultural tour.

• There is a $200 participation deposit to be given in cash upon arrival day at the temple. This will be returned to participants at the end of the retreat. If participants leave early from the program this will not be refunded.

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Technology Policy 

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Participants are asked to refrain from using cell phones, tablets, and computers for the duration of the retreat to encourage full immersion in the experience.

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Arrival and Departure 

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Participants should arrive on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Taichung High-Speed Rail Station (meeting at Louise Coffee Place) between 12:00 and 13:00. The retreat will end on January 19, 2025, with an optional cultural tour from January 20-23, 2025.

 

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Application and Admission 

 

Rolling admissions are currently open. The application deadline is October 31, 2024. Early submission is encouraged to secure a spot in the program.

 

Apply Now!

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Farming Zen Retreat FAQ & Answers

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Please read the FAQ carefully, but if you have additional questions, feel free to email us at farmingzen@woodenfish.org.

 

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Questions About Program Eligibility

 

Q1: I am not a Taiwanese citizen. Am I still eligible for this program? 

A: Yes! The Farming Zen Retreat welcomes participants from all countries and backgrounds. You do not need to be a citizen or resident of Taiwan to apply. In the past, participants have joined us from across the globe.

 

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Q2: I am not experienced in meditation or farming. Can I still apply? 

A: Absolutely! The program is designed for beginners as well as those with more experience who wish to integrate meditation more deeply into their daily lives. Whether you are new to Zen practice or farming, you will receive guidance throughout the Retreat.

 

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Q3: Is there an age limit for participants? 

A: While most participants are in their 20s to 40s, we welcome individuals of all ages who have a sincere interest in the program. If you are physically able to participate in the schedule and outdoor activities, we encourage you to apply.

 

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Q4: I have physical limitations. Can I still participate? 

A: The Retreat involves physical activities such as gardening, walking meditation, and a hike. While we welcome all applicants, participants should be in reasonably good health to fully engage in the program’s activities. Participants should be physically capable of lifting and carrying up to 23 kilograms (approximately 50 pounds). Please contact us if you have specific concerns.

 

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Q5: I have food allergies or dietary restrictions. Will meals be adjusted for me? 

A: Meals at the Farming Zen Retreat are vegetarian, and while we aim to accommodate basic dietary needs, we cannot guarantee adjustments for all allergies or special diets. Please inform us of your specific needs, and we will do our best to accommodate.

 

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Q6: Can I participate if I have mental health conditions? 

A: We encourage applicants with mental health conditions to carefully consider the demands of the retreat, especially the periods of noble silence and extended meditation. If you are managing your condition with the help of a mental health professional, we recommend discussing the program with them before applying. Your well-being is our priority.

 

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Questions About the Application

 

Q7: When can I apply for the Farming Zen Retreat? 

A: Applications are open now and will close on October 31, 2024. Admissions are rolling, so we encourage early submission for better chances of securing a spot.

 

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Q8: Do I need to submit a letter of recommendation with my application? 

A: A letter of recommendation is not required but can strengthen your application, particularly if you are looking to highlight your commitment to meditation or community service.

 

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Q9: How are participants selected for the Retreat? 

A: We assess each applicant holistically, taking into account their personal statement, background, and interest in the program’s core values. The selection process aims to create a diverse, committed group that is eager to explore Zen practice and community living.

 

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Questions About the Retreat and Its Facilities

 

Q10: What are the sleeping arrangements? 

A: Participants will stay in separate living quarters for men and women. The accommodations are simple, reflecting the focus on mindfulness and simplicity throughout the Retreat.

 

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Q11: Will I be able to leave the Retreat during the retreat? 

A: To fully immerse in the Farming Zen Retreat experience, participants are expected to remain on-site for the duration of the retreat, except for the group excursion to Snow Mountain.

 

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Q12: Will I be required to participate in all the activities? 

A: Yes, participation in all activities is encouraged, as the retreat is designed to be a communal, integrated experience. Each component, from gardening to meditation, contributes to the overall practice of farming Zen.

 

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Q13: Can I use my phone, tablet, or laptop during the retreat? 

A: To foster mindfulness and simplicity, the Retreat is technology-free. Participants are asked to refrain from using phones, tablets, or laptops during the retreat. This helps everyone to stay focused and fully engaged in the present moment.

 

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Q14: How can my family contact me in case of an emergency? 

A: Emergency contact information will be provided to all participants before the start of the Retreat. Family members can reach out to the Retreat coordinators in case of an urgent situation.

 

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Q15: What should I bring to the Retreat? 

A: Participants should bring layered clothing for cool nights and colder days, gardening gear like rubber or wellington boots, and any personal care items they might need. Since this is a technology-free retreat, please plan to bring only essential items.

 

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Q16: What is the cost of the Retreat? 

A: Thanks to generous sponsorship from Woodenfish and Unlimited Lights Academy (ULA), the cost of participation, including room, board, and retreat activities, is covered for all accepted participants ensuring that you can focus entirely on the experience. You are only responsible for visa and travel expenses to and from (and within) Taiwan. While the Farming Zen Retreat is fully covered by the Woodenfish + ULA Fellowship, a refundable deposit of $200 USD is required upon acceptance into the program. This deposit will be reimbursed in full after the successful completion of the program.

 

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Q17: Is this Retreat suitable for someone looking for a relaxing vacation? 

A: No, the Farming Zen Retreat is not a vacation—it is a mentally and physically engaging retreat designed for personal growth through meditation, communal service, and Zen practice. It requires full participation in all activities and a commitment to the program’s structure and values.

 

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Q18: Will I need to understand Mandarin or Taiwanese to participate? 

A: No, all instructions and activities will be conducted in English, and translators will be available when necessary.

 

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Q19: How physically demanding is the hike to Snow Mountain? 

A: The Snow Mountain walk is a challenging, silent journey designed to deepen the meditation experience. While it is physically demanding, it is also optional. Participants should be prepared for a full-day hike and consult us if they have concerns.

 

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Q20: Are there any additional fees? 

A: There are no additional fees for the retreat itself. However, participants should budget for personal travel expenses and any incidental costs during their journey to and from the Retreat.

 

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For any other questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to us at farmingzen@woodenfish.org.

 

This program is open to beginners and those experienced in meditation. If you are seeking to deepen your connection with nature and mindfulness, apply today!