Roots and Refuge: An Asian American Buddhist Writing Retreat

How do our roots shape us as Asian Americans in connection to Buddhism? Where can we find refuge in the practice of putting pen to paper? As writers shaped by lineages of Buddhist poetry, exegesis, fiction, journalism, and other genres, how can we share what we have to offer to the present and future of Buddhism in the United States?

This experimental, participatory gathering brings together Asian American Buddhists writers—broadly defined—for a program to support and deepen our spiritual and creative practice. Over the course of our five days together, we will participate in peer-led ritual and meditation, write on our own and in peer-organized groups, and dialogue as a community. 

Anyone of Asian heritage (including Central, East, South, Southeast, and West Asian heritage) who is currently working on a writing project related to Buddhism is warmly invited to apply. You do not need to be a published author to apply, and writers of all genres are welcome. 

Program Format: This program, as in the past, consists of a mix of different activities, co-led by participants, including: silent writing, chanting, meditation, altar building, large group discussions, small peer-led group discussions, reading of work, and relational practices. 

Noble Silence:

Noble silence will be observed following each evening session through breakfast the following morning.

Experience Level:

Suitable for beginning and experienced practitioners.

Cancellation Policy:

We understand that personal circumstances may require you to cancel your registration. In these cases, please contact us right away. If you cancel more than eight weeks before the program starts, you are eligible for a full refund minus a $50 administrative fee. If you cancel between three and eight weeks before the program starts, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the deposit. Registration fees are nonrefundable less than three weeks before the program starts.

Schedule:

Please note that the daily schedule will vary (sometimes significantly) from course to course. Below please find a typical schedule, keeping in mind that it will not directly reflect every course.


Opening Day

 2:00 – 5:45 pm Check-in

 4:30 pm BCBS Campus Tour (optional)

 5:50 – 6:30 pm Kitchen Orientation and Dinner

 7:30 – 9:00 pm Opening Session


Middle Day(s)

 6:30 am Wake-up Bell

 7:00 – 7:30 am Group Sitting Practice

 7:30 – 8:00 am Breakfast

 8:00 – 9:00 am Work Practice or Rest

9:00 am – noon Morning Session

 12:00 – 12:30 pm Lunch

12:30 – 2:00 pm Work Practice or Rest

 2:00 – 5:00 pm Afternoon Session

 5:00 – 5:30 pm Dinner

5:30 – 7:00 pm Work Practice or Rest

 7:00 – 9:00 pm Evening Session


Closing Day

6:30 am Wake-up Bell

7:00 – 7:30 am Group Sitting Practice

7:30 – 8:00 am Breakfast

8:00 – 9:00 am Work Practice or Rest

9:00 am – noon Closing Session

12:00 – 12:30 pm Lunch (optional)

Application:

This program will be offered by application. Applications will close at 11:59 PM US Eastern time on April 1st, 2026. Spaces will be offered within four weeks.