Reviews and Ratings of Spirit Rock in Woodacre, USA

Last Updated: April 25, 2023

Reviews and Ratings  of Spirit Rock in Woodacre, USA

The Spirit Rock residential retreat center was established 24 years ago in 1998 with a goal to assist individuals in incorporating wisdom and compassion into every aspect of their lives. The center provides programs that vary in length from days to months, including 2-hour classes, day-long workshops, and 2-3 day retreats. The center specializes in Vipassana or silent meditation, which facilitates a reflective and insightful retreat.

The Spirit Rock retreat center is situated on 411 acres of land, consisting of hills and lush greenery. Additionally, the center offers a year-long advanced program for individuals who have been practicing yoga and meditation for an extended period.

Overview

No. of Reviews: Google (121), Yelp(79), Tripadvisor (8), Total: 208
Ratings: 4.8, 4.5, 4 out of 5 stars, Avg: 4.5
Served years: 25 years
Specialty: Silent Meditation and learning about Buddhism

People’s Words About Spirit Rock, Woodacre ?

The Spirit Rock center in Woodacre has received glowing reviews from its visitors, with many expressing sentiments such as "This place is like a gift sent to me," "Spirit Rock is my spiritual home," "The staff are knowledgeable and dedicated," and "The vegetarian food served here is one of the best."

Visitors have praised the center for providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere that is comparable to visiting a temple in Southeast Asia. The retreat is located away from the noise and bustle of the city, providing visitors with a chance to experience stillness and a surreal spiritual awakening.

Accommodation

The Woodacre center has designated separate buildings for sleeping, meditating, and dining, which are located a short distance away from each other. The center can accommodate up to 96 residents at a time, with single and double rooms available that include basic amenities such as storage, a chair, bedding, and towels. However, residents share the bathrooms and toilets, which are located on each floor of the buildings.

Food

The dining halls at the Spirit Rock retreat center in Woodacre have received praise from visitors for their vegetarian meals. The meals are divided into three large servings per day: breakfast, lunch, and a light dinner. If visitors wish to snack outside of these meal times, the dining halls are open for tea and other refreshments.

Meditation learning

The Spirit Rock center offers visitors the opportunity to engage in the meditation practice and teachings of Buddha. Visitors can immerse themselves in Buddhist psychology and receive training on how to deepen their dharma practices.

Yoga Classes

If you are interested in practicing yoga during your stay at the Spirit Rock retreat center, they offer programs such as the Dharma Yoga and Meditation Center, which range from a few months to a year in length. With their yoga program, you can practice various asanas, pranayama, body anatomy, and learn about Buddhism. These programs also offer certification, which can be used to become a yoga teacher.

Other Activities

If you are new to the world of meditation, the Spirit Rock retreat center offers day programs where you can be guided through meditational practices. You can also participate in the "Dharma Talk" program, where professionals speak about Buddhism and its teachings. The center offers various types of meditation programs, including eating, walking, and sitting meditation.

Cost

The cost for a non-residential day program at Spirit rock starts at a minimum of $105 per person. Some programs will cost you up to $4000 for a nine day program but you can also opt for other rooms which will be of lower costs. If the minimum fee is too high for you, you can also opt in for their volunteer program and qualify to participate or else you can also apply for scholarships.

Internet/communication

During your retreat at the Spirit Rock center, it is recommended that you leave your phone and refrain from using any form of communication or technology. If someone needs to contact you, they can use a landline number provided by the center.

Features

  • Open to all self-identified LGBTQIA+
  • Family programs for teens and young adults
  • Yoga
  • Credit courses programs
  • Vegetarian Meal
  • Scholarships and volunteer programs
  • Non smoking rooms

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

What types of retreat programs are available at Spirit Rock center?

They provide meditation, yoga, and dharma talk programs of varying lengths from a few hours to a few years. Eligibility and experience as a meditator are taken into account when offering these programs.

How much does a meditation retreat cost?

The cost of a retreat varies depending on its length. A day program starts at around $105, while a 6-day course can cost up to $7,000. You can select a program based on your financial capability.

What can you expect to do at a retreat center?

At Spirit Rock center in Woodacre, you can release your stress and experience the benefits of being in a peaceful environment with guidance from experienced professionals to work on your inner self.

How long do retreats typically last?

The length of a retreat depends on the program you choose, ranging from a few days to several months. You can also extend your retreat after consulting with the center.

What should I pack for a spiritual retreat?

It is advised to avoid bringing technology, except for your phone. You should pack enough clothing for the duration of your retreat as laundry service is only available for programs longer than two weeks.

Best things about Spirit Rock, Woodacre

Visiting a temple or monastery in South Asia might seem like the only way to find peace and tranquility to some people. However, you don't have to travel far if you visit the Woodacre center located in the bay area. It's not necessary to enroll in a long-term program right away. Additionally, the center offers a sliding scale fee structure, which means visitors can pay what they can afford for the programs. If someone cannot afford to pay, they are also given the opportunity to volunteer or apply for scholarships. Beginners can take a short course for just a day or two. The staff is passionate and keeps the area tidy and well-maintained.

What can be improved?

While the retreat center occupies a sprawling 400-acre expanse of land, it can only house up to 90 guests each day, necessitating advance booking to secure a reservation. Booking too far in advance, however, could lead to cancellations if unexpected circumstances arise, prompting visitors to adjust their plans.

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