December Seven Day Retreat (In-Person)
With GuoGu
December 26, 2025 - January 2, 2026
🌿 This is for in-person registration only.
If you are joining the online retreat, please click here.
In the Chan tradition, there are two main approaches to awakening: the method of silent illumination (mòzhà o) and investigating a critical phrase (huà tóu). The former is a settling method of serene reflection on the nature of awareness; the latter is an explosive approach that aims to concentrate and shatter all mental states so awakening manifests. This 7-day retreat will deepen your practice, regardless of method, with 30 minute sitting meditation periods punctuated by mindful yoga and walking meditation. There will be daily Dharma talks by Guo Gu, and opportunities for personal consultations to practice. Vegetarian meals will be provided.
It will follow our standard intensive retreat schedule, which includes alternating periods of sitting meditation, standing yoga, and walking meditation. There will be no interviews.
In-Person Retreat Guidelines:
The Tallahassee Chan Center has a limited number of beds reserved for retreatants in gender-separated housing. Please make a note in your application if you wish to stay on site. We also have camping grounds for those who wish to stay on the 5-acre lot. If you wish to stay at the center before and/or after the retreat, please email us to make arrangements.
About the Teacher

GuoGu
GuoGu (Dr. Jimmy Yu) is the founder and teacher at the Tallahassee Chan Center. He first learned meditation as a child in 1972 with master Guangqin (1892-1986), one of the most respected Chinese meditation masters and ascetics who lived in Taiwan. In 1980, GuoGu moved to the United States and began studying with Chan Master […]
Learn more about GuoGuCategories : In-Person Retreat, Online Retreat