This practice is not just for ourselves, but for all beings. We are at this very unique moment in time, where the earth needs humanity to wake up like it never has before. If we are going to survive, and if much of life is going to survive, we are being called on to really wake up. As my good friend Roger Walsh says, “we’re in a race between fear and consciousness.” Consciousness is stronger than fear, but who knows how much time we have. Here we are, having been born at this time. This is what's being asked of us.
James Baraz
Residential Retreat Teacher
James Baraz is a founding teacher of Spirit Rock Meditation Center. James started the Community Dharma Leader program, the Kalyana Mitta Network, the Spirit Rock Family Program and helped create the Heavenly Messengers Training Program. James has been leading the online course "Awakening Joy" since 2003. He serves as a guiding teacher to One Earth Sangha, a Virtual EcoDharma Center devoted to Buddhist responses to Climate Change. He co-authored Awakening Joy and Awakening Joy for Kids.
James Baraz's Upcoming Programs
Retreat | On-Land
August 27 - September 1, 2025 | Wednesday - Monday | 5 nights
Labor Day Insight Meditation Retreat
Registration Opens - February 19. This retreat emphasizes quieting the mind, opening the heart, and developing clarity and depth of practice. Traditional instructions will be combined with a spirit of lovingkindness, and our time together will include a schedule of silent sitting and walking periods, guided Yoga/movement sessions, as well as practice meetings with teachers and daily Dharma talks. This retreat is for experienced as well as new students.
Retreat | On-Land
September 26 - September 30, 2025 | Friday - Tuesday | 4 nights
Devotion to the Sacred
Registration Opens - February 19. The Buddha advised us not only to overcome unhealthy states but to cultivate states of true well-being such as gratitude, kindness, and compassion. What’s more, he encouraged us to continue to work towards deepening these states when possible. Designed for practitioners who wish to enhance their heartfelt connection to their goodness, well-being, and joy, this retreat focuses on the cultivation of these states by accessing the inner source from which they arise.
Dharma Library
Can't join us live online or on the land? Study and practice at your convenience with James Baraz through our new library of recordings, articles, and self-paced online courses.
