Spring '27 Noble Silence Meditation Retreat (NSMR) Weekend

This silent meditation retreat is a weekend of Noble Silence at Higher Haven Retreat Center in South Haven, Michigan. It combines sitting and walking meditation with gentle Yin yoga, light healthy meals and time in nature. Beginning meditators and experienced practitioners are both welcome, and guidance is available for all levels. The weekend is taught in the lineage of the organizer's teacher, Shinzen Young.

The retreat is a fit for anyone who wants a steadier, more grounded mind in an unsettled world, and for those ready to work with the benefits of mindfulness: insight, empowerment and a stronger sense of self-worth. The organizer describes four skills that regular practice builds: Concentration, Relaxation, Insight into the Nature of Reality and the ability to love unconditionally.

What to Expect

The weekend runs from a Friday evening arrival to a Sunday afternoon close, with extended periods of Noble Silence in between. A zendo, or meditation hall, stays open for ongoing practice.

Friday. Check-in and welcome begin at 6:30 pm, followed by a light dinner from 7 to 8 pm and an orientation class from 8 to 9 pm. Deep rest begins at 10 pm.

Saturday. The day starts with waking at 8 am and breakfast from 8 to 9 am. From 9:30 am to noon, a meditation class covers the six senses and the four principles of practice: Concentration, Relaxation, Insights into Reality and Unconditional Love. After lunch, sitting and walking meditation periods run from 2 to 5 pm. Dinner and free time fill the evening until 8 pm, when a meditation and fire circle gathers for an hour. Deep rest follows at 9 pm.

Sunday. After an 8 am wake-up and breakfast, sitting and walking practice runs from 9 am to noon. A talking circle at noon gives the group a chance to speak after the silence. Lunch is from 1 to 2 pm, and the retreat winds down and closes at 3 pm.

The Setting

The retreat takes place at Higher Haven Retreat Center in South Haven, Michigan, where the organizer points to nature's stillness as part of the practice. Meals are light and healthy, and the stay includes overnight lodging. There are two ways to stay. The couple's option is a private room with a shared bed. The individual option is a bed in a dorm room. A solo guest who prefers a private room can book the couple's room option as an individual.

Before You Go

No prior experience is needed. The organizer welcomes first-time meditators as well as the most advanced practitioners, and guidance is available throughout the weekend. Accommodation, meals, the classes and the practice sessions are all part of the retreat as described.