Retreat Code of Conduct 

The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to create a focused, safe, and mutually supportive retreat environment. It’s based on traditional Buddhist precepts, with a few modern additions.

These guidelines aren’t moral judgments. In Buddhist terms, ethical conduct is a tool for freedom from dukkha, the Pali term for stress, suffering, and the general bummers of life. Likewise, this code of conduct serves as a practical framework for the most enriching retreat experience possible.

Perfection isn’t expected, but honest commitment is. If you know in advance that you cannot or will not follow these agreements, a residential retreat with Upali and his co-teachers is likely not the right fit for you.

You are required to agree to this Code of Conduct before attending. Please read it carefully. If you have concerns about any part of it, contact Upali or the retreat teachers. We’re happy to clarify or help you determine whether this retreat container will work for you.  

1. Treat all beings kindly

I agree to treat all beings kindly and refrain from killing, except in cases of legitimate self-defense (such as removing or destroying a venomous insect).

2. Take only what is yours

I agree only to use belongings that are clearly mine, and if I am unsure, I will ask before taking or using anything.

3. Practice celibacy and non-harming through sexuality

I agree to refrain from sexual activity with others on retreat and to be celibate in my intentions with others during retreat, including before, during, and after periods of noble silence.

4. Maintain sobriety and clarity of mind

I agree to remain sober and not use mind-altering substances unless they are medically prescribed or required to prevent withdrawal. I will not bring or possess illegal substances of any kind. 

I understand that caffeine is an exception to this rule and that tea and coffee are provided on retreat. 

5. Keep noble silence

I agree to observe noble silence and will only speak when necessary, such as communicating with teachers or participants during designated periods like Dharma talks or Noble Noise, or for functional reasons such as clarifying essential logistics like yogi chores or living situations with roommates.  

Noble silence usually begins the first evening of retreat and breaks the last evening or morning of retreat. There is a formal structure for starting and ending Noble Silence, which teachers will guide.

6. Keep technological silence

I agree not to use phones, computers, tablets, or similar devices for any purpose other than alarm, clock, or flashlight functions. If I anticipate needing emergency access to my device for communication, I will coordinate with teachers in advance. I understand I may be asked to store my device with teachers if I violate this precept.  I understand that bringing a separate device to keep time, other than a phone, is encouraged (but not required).  

An emergency contact number will be provided for me to share with my family if they need to reach me due to an emergency.  

7. Refrain from reading and writing

I agree to refrain from reading or writing unless specifically instructed by a teacher. The only exception is reading a meditation manual for direct guidance, and only the section immediately relevant to my current practice.

The intention of this precept is freedom from conceptual distraction and not a judgment of reading and writing as practices or as supportive of practice.  

8. Stay in quiet areas

I agree to refrain from using money or entering locations where purchases are possible, such as shops or cafés.

9. Arrive on time and stay until the end of the retreat

I agree to arrive on the start date and stay for the whole duration of the retreat. I will not leave early except in the case of an actual emergency, which I will first discuss with the teacher(s). Teachers honor my freedom of movement, but leaving early may affect my ability to attend future retreats.

10. Attend interviews and group sits

I agree to attend the required group meditations and teacher interviews. I will remain seated, reasonably still, and quiet during group practice. If my posture or practice is distracting to others, I will accept the guidance of the teacher and community to adjust. If teachers offer verbal guidance during required group sits, I agree to participate with the group and am welcome to choose not to follow the guidance.

Typically, there is only one required group meditation each day, and interviews with teachers are every other day. Group interview/Noble Noise is not required.

11. Refrain from ascetic practices

I agree not to engage in ascetic practices such as fasting or intentional sleep deprivation unless I have explicitly requested permission from the teachers in advance.

To attend a residential retreat, you will need to agree to the following: 

I agree to follow the community code of conduct.  

If any of these commitments do not feel realistic or acceptable, I understand this retreat may not be the right fit for me.

I understand that if I have any questions or concerns about the community code of conduct, I can reach out to the teacher(s) in advance.  

I understand that failure to follow these commitments may result in being asked to leave the retreat or being restricted from attending future retreats.