QHBZ (Queer Hearts Breathing Zen): A Desert Meditation Retreat for GBTQ Men

In this joyful and deeply embodied meditation retreat in the grandeur of Ghost Ranch, New Mexico, we will experience a powerful fusion of Queer Spirituality, Heart Contemplation, Breathwork, and Zen Buddhist Practice, discovering within ourselves the resilience
​we need to thrive in a changing world ...

August 11-17, 2024 in Scenic Ghost Ranch, New Mexico.
​A Retreat for GBTQ Men $1495 Double Occupancy​

Save $100 with early registration until May 5, 2024!

For seven days, we invite you to unplug from your devices, catch your breath, and remember what it feels like to relax, play, and enjoy the company of other soulful gay men.In this joyful and deeply embodied meditation retreat, nestled together in the red-rock grandeur of Ghost Ranch, New Mexico, we will relax our minds and bodies into joyful, loving presence and embrace our human experience wholeheartedly!

Drawing on the wisdom teachings of Queer Spirituality, Heart Contemplation, Breathwork, and Zen Buddhist Practice, we will discover a meditation practice that:

• works with the body instead of against it
• embraces our human experience instead of pushing it away
• cultivates deep relaxation instead of rigidity
• cultivates wholehearted engagement and joy instead of escape
• deepens our experience of relationship with each other
• harnesses the power of our nervous systems to heal

This restful, playful and profound meditation retreat will give you a joyful, embodied, and queer-positive foundation in sitting and walking meditation as practiced in the Zen Buddhist and contemplative prayer traditions, integrated with a wholehearted and embodied exploration of being fully human.
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As Zen Master Dogen said, "wholehearted practice ... allows all things to exist as they are, in perfect enlightenment." Our practice is "jijuyu zanmai," the fulfillment and enjoyment of our own true nature, manifesting in every moment, every relationship, every breath. Enlightenment is not a final goal, a state; it is the revelation of who and what we really are, unfolding endlessly in each moment.

Perfect for beginners and experienced meditators alike, this retreat will help you discover a practice of meditation that deepens our relationships with ourselves, each other, and our world, and transforms spiritual practice from a struggle with the mind into an experience of relaxed, joyful presence.

Each day will include sitting, chanting, and walking practice, interspersed with movement and breathing practices, heart circles, earth-honoring ceremonies, and playful group exercises exploring intimacy, relationships, our challenges and visions, and spiritual growth. Every afternoon will offer free time to unwind and build friendships that can last a lifetime, and we'll have a play-day in the middle of the retreat, so we can all caravan to Ojo Caliente, a wonderful hot springs nearby. No previous experience is necessary for any of the activities; instruction, guidance and support is provided throughout the retreat. All participants are encouraged to participate in every activity in a way that is perfect for them.

Our home for this retreat is Ghost Ranch, the home, studio, and inspiration of the mystical painter Georgia O'Keeffe. Nestled amidst the stunning redrock scenery of New Mexico and surrounded by breathtaking hiking trails, we will be using the Casa Del Sol Spiritual Retreat house for our retreat. Located two miles from main Ghost Ranch main campus, Casa del Sol is a retreat space at Ghost Ranch dedicated to deeper spiritual contemplation in an intimate group setting. Casa del Sol is a classic, single story adobe home built in the mid-1930s with 7 bedrooms that open up to a shared plaza. Three hermitages are set at the base of the multi-colored 700-foot tall cliff wall with a chimney feature standing guard. A heart shaped labyrinth is off to the side, bordered by prayer ties and flags. We will share simple, hearty breakfasts together every morning and travel to the main dining facility for lunch and dinner. Every day will include free time to enjoy the hiking opportunities around us, gather on the patio together, or take quiet time for personal contemplation.