THE UNIFICATION OF MIND
with
Mikey Noechel and Andrew Chapman
January 27th to 31st, 2027
St. Mary's Retreat Center
Sewanee, TN
In the depth of winter, the natural world grows quiet and still. This retreat gives us an
opportunity to follow that pull inward — toward silence, spaciousness, and the unification of
mind.
So much of our ordinary life pulls our attention outward and into fragments, toward the next
task, the next thought, the next demand. Over time, this scattering can leave us feeling depleted, unfocused, and out of touch with our own life.
In meditation, we cultivate a mind that is collected, clear, and undivided. As the mind settles, the usual static of distraction and rumination begins to quiet, revealing a natural steadiness and ease that is always available beneath the surface of our busyness. From this place, insight naturally develops.
This retreat will offer specific instructions on the cultivation of samādhi, meaning "the
collectedness or unification of mind." We'll explore how to fine-tune the practice, refining
attention in ways that allow deeper states of concentration to arise naturally — including breath awareness and metta (lovingkindness) as a complementary path toward deepening concentration. Rather than chasing a goal, the aim of this retreat is simply to understand this territory more clearly, and to let concentration deepen as a byproduct of steady, well-supported practice.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The retreat will be held in noble silence, creating a supportive environment for deep and
sustained practice. The daily schedule will center on alternating periods of sitting and walking meditation. The teachers will offer meditation instructions, Dharma talks, and group interviews to provide guidance and support throughout the retreat.
IS THIS RETREAT RIGHT FOR ME?
This retreat is suitable for beginners and experienced meditators alike. You do not need to arrive
knowing how to meditate or having attended a silent retreat before. Clear instructions will be offered throughout the retreat, along with a structured schedule and regular opportunities to ask questions and receive support from the teachers.
Retreat practice can be challenging, and you will not be navigating those challenges alone. The retreat will be led by two teachers who have been authorized to teach in the Theravada Buddhist lineage within the Insight Meditation tradition. Together, they will create a grounded and supportive environment where you can deepen your practice at your own pace.
TEACHER DANA AND REGISTRATION
The teachers are supported entirely through dana, the Buddhist practice of generosity. Your registration fee covers accommodations and three meals each full day. Dana serves as the teachers’ only compensation for leading the retreat, so please include it when planning the full cost of attending.
As a general guideline, it is customary to offer dana equal to approximately half the cost of
registration. This amount is simply a guide. Please give according to your means. If you are
unable to offer dana, we still want you to attend. If you have the ability to give more, your
generosity helps support the teachers and makes room for those who have less to give.
You will have an opportunity to offer dana directly to the teachers at the conclusion of the
retreat.
St. Mary's Retreat Center • Sewanee, TN
Residential Retreat • January 27 – January 31, 2027
Payment Plans Available