Recommended Packing List

We are very sorry, no dogs or any pets allowed on site at all, with the exception of licensed service animals.

The center can provide limited blankets, sheets and pillows. You will need to bring your own towel.

About your medicine:

- Bring enough medicine for 6 weeks so you do not run out.

Clothing:

· Because of the phenomenon known as the “lake effect,” there may be balmy, breezy and beautiful summer weather one day with rain and colder temps the next. So, to prepare for anything from hot and humid to cold and damp, along with your usual summer attire bring a sweater or fleece jacket, raincoat and waterproof boots. See Environment to view high and low temperatures.

· Loose comfortable clothing for practice. When dressing for comfort in the temple and other retreat areas, please keep in mind that your attire should honor this sacred environment and demonstrate a high level of respect for the teachers, sangha of monks, and others gathered on retreat. Also, longer sleeves and pant legs are recommended to protect from insects, ticks in particular.

· Tsa Lung students: exercise shorts and sports bras for ladies.

· Layered clothing that includes a light layer for hot days and a warm layer for cool days. A hooded windbreaker and light gloves are useful.

· Work clothes for rota shifts.

· Dress-up clothes for special occasions.

· Avoid: Short-shorts, halter tops, muscle tees, sarongs, and bathing suits or trunks.

· Sample packing list: 2 short-sleeved shirts, calve-length skirt (ladies), several pairs of loose khaki pants or blue jeans, over-sized tee shirt, leggings (ladies), Bermuda shorts, warm socks, pull-over sweater (in either fleece or wool) or sweatshirt, warm cardigan, down vest, raincoat, warm socks, slip-on shoes, sandals, and waterproof boots. If we get a lot of rain, it can get muddy!

Other:

· Shawl or small blanket for cool days in the meditation hall.

· Sturdy walking shoes. Warm, over-the-ankle boots are recommended as the grass is often laden with due in the early mornings.

· Rain gear, including boots.

· Clothes hangers. Dorms have small standing closets and very limited drawer space.

· Cushions. Cushions are provided in the main temple, but feel free to bring your own for comfort’s sake. If you bring your own cushion, please put a nametag on it to prevent any mix-ups. Special cushions are provided for Tsa Lung retreatants, and these are also available for purchase.

· Flashlight and extra batteries. Although there is lighting on the land, many of the backcountry roads and tent area trails are not lit.

· Warm bedding. Bring blankets and/or a sleeping bag suitable for very cool temperatures, pillow and pillowcase, twin size sheets, and a bath towel. A mattress is provided for each retreatant but no blankets or sleeping bags are available at the center.

· Daypack or other small carrying bag.

· Canteen or water bottle.

· Sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

· Toiletries.

· Optional items: bedspread, throw rug, alarm clock, dharma books and pictures. A battery-operated lantern is advisable for nighttime study. Candles, kerosene or oil lamps, and any type of flame or fire is not permitted in either the dorms or tents. This includes smoking.

Suggestions for Reading:

The following books contain subject matter relevant to all retreat levels. The texts will not be taught but may augment and enhance one's appreciation of subjects covered during the retreat.

Words of My Perfect Teacher, by Patrul Rinpoche, translated by the Padmakara Translation Group.

A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life, by Shantideva.

The Excellent Path to Enlightenment, by Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo, as explained by HH Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche.

The Four Thoughts, by Tenzin Gyatso, His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying, by Sogyal Rinpoche.

Other items to guide you with important information for your retreat.

What's it like at the retreat center?
- Environment & Accommodations
- Weather

How much money do I need with me? What other logistics are there available for me?
- Planning Your Expenses
- Telephones, Laundry, Travel
- Offering of Work Rota

Rules and Etiquette
- General Rules
- Shrine Etiquette