During a retreat it is possible to work more profoundly with a particular meditation. You retreat to strengthen your meditative practice in an undisturbed environment and thus to return to the world with renewed energy.

The duration of a time limited retreat should be decided upon in advance. Many choose to go into retreat for a weekend or a week.

If you plan to retreat for more than 10 days it is recommended to ask your teacher for advice in advance.

Some Buddhists also choose to retreat to study parts of the Buddha’s teachings or to write books. To retreat once in a while is a natural part of life as a Buddhist.