Retreats &Workshops
Meditation Retreats:
Extended meditation sessions are central to our practice, providing participants with the opportunity to cultivate mental tranquility through collective silence. At GTMC, we organize meditation retreats that integrate traditional principles with modern practices, featuring dedicated periods of seated meditation, walking meditation, liturgical observances, and structured meals.
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Mindfulness Workshops:
​GTMC provides a range of Mindfulness workshops designed to teach foundational techniques for cultivating present-moment awareness, reducing stress, and enhancing emotional regulation. These sessions typically introduce practices such as mindful breathing, mindful movement/walking, body scans, meditation, and awareness of thoughts/feelings, offering guidance on integrating these skills into daily routines to minimize automatic and stressful responses. Participants frequently report improvements in focus, reductions in anxiety, heightened self-compassion, and enhanced emotional regulation. The workshops emphasize practical application over theoretical discussion, with the goal of fostering a sustainable and personal mindfulness practice. Â
*NOTE:Â Â All programs provided by our GTMC are offered on a donation basis in accordance with the Buddhist tradition of dana (generosity), which serves as a core practice to foster compassion and joy by supporting the Sangha and sustaining the continued presence of the Dharma.
Dates for Upcoming Retreats, Workshops, Classes, and Events at GTMC:
__Healing Retreat for Parents with Pregnancy and Child Loss: Saturday, November 7th (9 AM - 5 PM) - Will be postponed until the Spring of 2027. Please check-in with us again for the confirmation of the retreat date soon. Thank you for your interest.
__ Zen Cooking Workshop (Vietnamese Vegan Pho Noodle Soup): Saturday, December 12th (10 AM - 2 PM). Registration Deadline by December 10th.Â
*Detail Info &Â Registration Form:Â https://forms.gle/LbhVowa2xtacbnw67
*NOTE:Â During the winter months, Giac Tam Meditation Center (GTMC) will take a gentle pause from offering retreats and workshops as our community turns inward to deepen our practice, cultivate mindfulness, and nourish our spiritual life at the monastery. We look forward to welcoming you back for retreats and workshops in the spring! Please check back soon for our upcoming Spring/Summer Calendar. In the meantime, we warmly invite you to join our regular monthly community meditation practice: the first Sunday of each month for English-speaking practitioners and the second Sunday of each month for Vietnamese-speaking practitioners. May this season of quiet practice bring peace, clarity, and renewal to all.
Zen Cooking Workshops - Mindfulness in the Kithcen
Workshop Overview:
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You are invited to participate in Gourmet Vietnamese culinary workshops that incorporate mindfulness practices within the Zen kitchen. These sessions at the GTMC offer a unique integration of tranquility and culinary artistry, welcoming individuals of all experience levels to engage in mindful meal preparation and consumption in a serene and contemplative environment. The workshops highlight how each moment spent cooking can foster relaxation, joy, heightened awareness, and an attitude of gratitude.
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Time & Date for 2026:Â Â Â (10 AM to 2 PM)
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__ Saturday, December 12 (Vietnamese Vegan Pho Noodle Soup)
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Discover the Art of
Buddhist Statue Making
A Precious Opportunity to Create Qualified Buddhist Statues & Holy Objects
Event Overview:
Join us for a special hands-on workshop where you will learn to craft Buddha, Bodhisattva, and other holy statues—symbols of enlightenment, wisdom, and compassion. These beautiful creations serve as tangible reminders and aids for meditation, helping to cultivate inner peace, harmony, and good fortune. In many traditions, making these objects generates positive karma and merits, offering a meaningful way to connect with spiritual ideals and inspire your journey toward inner awakening.
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Who Should Attend?
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Anyone interested in learning statue-making skills, regardless of artistic background.
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Individuals seeking personal spiritual growth and a deeper knowledge of Buddhist iconography and history.
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Those inspired to contribute to the global effort of praying for World Peace.
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No prior experience is necessary—just bring a sincere wish to create beautiful and meaningful statues!
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Workshop Highlights
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Learn both the craft techniques and the rich lore of Buddhist statue making through plaster casting using silicone molds.
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Create your own palm-sized Buddha, Bodhisattva, meditating monk, or other holy figure statue to take home.
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Experience the meditative and transformative process of plaster sculpting after molding, connecting with your inner wisdom, loving-kindness, and beauty.
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Enjoy a peaceful, inspiring environment and a supportive community.
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Space is limited.  Reserve your spot with the REGISTRATION here and begin your journey to inner awakening through the art of Buddhist statue making.
__No required fee. Donations of any amount is warmly appreciated.
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Email: giactamcommunity@gmail.com for further inquiries.Â
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Healing Retreat for Parents with Child Loss
A Journey of Comfort, Connection, and Renewal for Parents Who Have Lost a Child
You Are Not Alone! Join us for a gentle and nurturing retreat designed especially for parentss who have experienced the profound loss of child, either in pregnancy or after birth. Being guided by Buddhist/interfaith chaplains and Zen priests, this retreat offers a safe, compassionate space to honor your grief, begin the healing process, and connect with others who truly understand what you are going through.
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Retreat Overview
This Healing Retreat for Parents with Child Loss is a supportive event created to bring comfort, understanding, and renewal. Together, we will honor each parent’s unique journey and provide caring resources for healing.
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Retreat Features
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Guided meditation sessions and Body scan for relaxation and awareness
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Healing time with Sound Bath and other activities to support grief processing
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Mindfulness practices focusing on feelings and emotions
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Arts and crafts: Create meaningful, sacred objects to bring home
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Opportunities to ask questions, share experiences, and build community
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Enjoy a healthy delicious vegetarian meal lovingly prepared by monastic nuns.
Beginner's Mind Retreats
Retreat Overview
The Adult Beginner’s Mind Meditation Retreat at Giac Tam Meditation Center is a one-day event for adults new to meditation or seeking a refreshed approach. Participants will join guided sessions covering basic techniques, practice gentle mindfulness exercises, and receive teachings aimed at deepening understanding. The retreat offers a peaceful, supportive space for exploring mindfulness and self-discovery.
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What to Expect
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Introduction to key meditation techniques
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Guided mindfulness exercises to apply in daily life
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Opportunities to ask questions, share experiences, and build community
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Supportive setting designed for learning, relaxation, and growth
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Enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal lovingly prepared by monastic nuns, offering a mindful dining experience as part of the retreat.
Hosting a Retreat or Workshop in Your Area
GTMC teachers are often available to offer retreats away from GTMC.
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GTMC is dedicated to supporting the broader spiritual community by offering guidance and resources for hosting retreats or workshops at other practice centers and organizations. With a wealth of experience in organizing meaningful and transformative events, GTMC collaborates closely with hosts to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for all participants. This commitment helps foster connection, growth, and harmony within the wider network of practitioners.