Three-Day English Meditation Retreat at Xiangyun Temple Concludes Successfully: Cultivating Precepts and Mindfulness in Stillness and Activity

Reporter: Huang Dawei, Austin

From March 27 to 29, 2026, Xiangyun Temple at Fo Guang Shan held a three-day English meditation retreat focused on the theme of "precepts" (戒). Approximately fifteen participants and volunteers took part, experiencing physical and mental peace through Dharma teachings, seated meditation, walking meditation, and work practice.

The event began on Friday evening with an opening orientation and group discussions, followed by a vow of silence that laid the foundation for the practice. Saturday was the main day of the retreat, featuring lessons in walking, seated, and standing meditation, as well as qigong. Outdoor observation, meditation, and mindful eating were also included to develop focus and awareness. In the afternoon, participants practiced mindfulness through writing and work practice, embodying the spirit of living meditation. Evening sessions continued with meditation and teachings, deepening the understanding of the Three Trainings: precepts, concentration, and wisdom.

On Sunday, a Grand Compassion Repentance Ceremony was held, guiding the participants to purify their bodies and minds through repentance and making vows. In the afternoon, a Three Refuges Ceremony was held, during which some participants officially took refuge in the Triple Gem and shared their experiences, creating a warm and fulfilling atmosphere.

This retreat combined meditation and Dharma ceremonies, guiding participants from inner reflection to repentance and vow-making, helping them apply the Dharma to daily life and progress toward mental clarity and the cultivation of wisdom.