For the nonbelievers, a Buddhist retreat embodies traits opposite of an urban lifestyle. They offer an uncomplicated way of living that provides the rest and relaxation that so many of their visitors seek. In a way, visitors can experience the antithesis of their lives at home.

While Buddhist retreats have been around for several decades, they have traditionally been visited by practicing Buddhists, serious yoga students or devotees of an ashram’s guru. Today, these spots are attracting clientele who’ve had limited interaction with Eastern religions, yoga or a spiritual guru. In fact, some Buddhist centers are reporting a 100% increase in non-following visitors in the last five years alone. These particular visitors have come to realize that Buddhist centers are places of refuge and that it isn’t necessary to know anything about the guru, yoga or meditation.

While stress is the number one reason visitors choose to take a spiritual getaway, it’s the sparse living style and firm scheduling at these retreats that helps to relieve that stress. Harried urbanites can spend whole days without making a decision or facing a crisis, without trying to find a cab in the rain or worrying about a client. The activities are predetermined and tightly scheduled: meditation, chanting religious verses, doing chores around the property and silent self-contemplation.

While non-believers are finding that these retreats are a wonderful way to relax, they are also discovering that they are a great way to initiate a personal exploration of Buddhism. There are many types of classes that are perfect for new visitors. There are “Intro to Buddhism” weekends, workshop retreats that focus on a Zen art such as haiku or kung fu, retreats for families, retreats into the wilderness; and retreats for silent meditation.

Attending a beginner meditation retreat, like those offered at Shambhala Mountain Center, is an ideal way to begin a personal experience of Buddhism outside of books. Visitors will be in the company of other beginners, and such matters as temple protocols or how to meditate will be explained. Most Buddhist centers that offer retreats will make it clear which retreats are appropriate for beginners and which require prior experience. Contact Shambhala Mountain Center today to learn more about our beginner Buddhist meditation retreats.