You should bring your own toiletries on retreats. During retreat many people are sharing the bathroom / shower facilities. Be aware that due to the highly structured schedule shower times are limited; many people follow the traditional practice of limited bathing during retreat. Towels are available, but you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

The purpose of retreat is to minimize external distraction, for yourself and for others. We ask that you minimize the number of times you check your phone (we realize that folks may need to stay in touch with family or work) for your own benefit, and also that you remember to mute your phone for the benefit of others.

Retreatants generally don’t leave the zen center for meals, all retreatants eat the same meal together. Therefore, it is important to let the retreat organizer know of any dietary restrictions in advance, to ensure your needs are prepared for.

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing on the retreat. It is important not to restrict circulation while sitting; some clothing becomes uncomfortable after an extended period of sitting. For example, the heavy denim fabric of blue jeans bunches around the knees, and tight-waisted jeans or other pants can restrict the movement of the abdomen for deep breathing.

Sweatpants, sweatshirts, yoga pants, and loose-fitting clothing in general, perhaps with elasticized or drawcord waists, are good for sitting meditation.

If possible, please try to wear subdued colors without (or minimal) logos or sayings, to minimize visual distraction for other participants.

The Atlanta Soto Zen Center has very spartan facilities for overnight accommodations (think summer camp). Multiple occupancy room spaces are available on a first-come first-served basis.

Overflow is accommodated with foam mattress pads and even the benches/zabutons in the zendo, if necessary. Therefore, it is helpful if attendees bring sleeping bags, in case needed.

Retreat fees go to support the overhead of the Zen Center and to fund necessary investments in future program and infrastructure. While these are collected on the honor system, they are not considered optional. There are limited discount and sponsorship opportunities available for staff, full time students or those in need of financial assistance. Please inquire at time of registration. The fees covers the cost of meals and overnight accommodations as specified.

Many people choose to attend only a portion of each retreat. Attendees should inquire about how to prorate the cost based on their planned attendance schedule.
Hardship scholarships and work tuition are available upon request and will be negotiated on a case-by-case basis. On-staff Disciples, Priests, and residents are not required to pay fees.

In addition, Dana (the perfection of giving) should be added in for the support of the teachers.

Partial attendance is acceptable. As a lay practice center, we rejoice in all participation that our members can arrange and recognize that most have responsibilities which prevent full attendance. For those unable to participate for the full retreat, please consult the schedule to arrive and leave during appropriate break times and please be mindful of the increased intensity of those attending full-time. Please be especially attentive to whether a cushion is occupied before sitting on it!

Overnight space is limited and so many choose to commute. Full-attendance commuters may choose to wait until 8:30am to arrive (but are welcome at 6:00am).

All attendees who are new to retreats at the Atlanta Soto Zen Center are required to attend the orientation session.