“To take this posture itself is the purpose of our practice. When you have this posture, you have the right state of mind, so there is no need to try to attain some special state.” – Suzuki Roshi

Are you uncomfortable or in pain when you meditate? Is it challenging to sit for long periods of time? Or is it just hard to stay present?

Discover how being fully present and at ease in your body transforms your practice and your life! Being upright is not just an arbitrary shape; it is a perfect expression of meditation itself.

In this weekend workshop, Hope Martin, a master teacher of the Alexander Technique, will help you discover ease and non-striving in meditation and other activities. Her hands-on work makes subtle adjustments to the head, neck and back to help you access an effortless, balanced posture – both light and grounded.

The process teaches awareness of habits that result in pain, fixed posture and mind-set, and shows us how to shift to a more open, balanced way of being that is our birthright. It’s not about improving or getting away from anything. Rather, by learning about and honouring the many moments of response that are our habits, we become actively engaged in the process of befriending ourselves and making changes that better support us.

What to Expect

The workshop includes instruction on basic body mechanics and alignment, experiential exercises and hands-on adjustments from the instructor to help improve your posture and release unnecessary tension in your meditation practice and in your life.

New and experienced meditators are welcome. Meditation instruction will be provided.

“The work with Hope dramatically improved my practice because sitting correctly I can better stay present.” – Judy Cameron

Overview of Schedule 

June 21  (Arrival Day)

• Check-in is open from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Please try to arrive before 5pm to settle in before dinner if you are able to.
• Dinner is at 6:30.
• There will be an orientation session around 7:30 after dinner.

June 23

• Departure after tea on Sunday (around 4:30)

Weekend Cost

All prices are in $CAD
Tuition & Meals: $335
Lodging: Extra: varies by type. Visit the Registration Form or this page for a list of options and pricing.

Early Bird Discount of $50 applies if you register by February 29, 2024.

Generosity Policy: If you need financial assistance in order to attend, please complete this form and our Finance Director will contact you. If you have questions or would like to set up a payment plan, contact our Finance Department at [email protected].

Covid Considerations 

Please read the full details of our Covid policy here.

Registration and Cancellation Policies

Please take note that our registration and cancellation policies have been updated. You can read our registration and cancellation policies here.