When we're around other humans, beloved as we are, we self-reference in a way that seems to be distinct from almost all other species. We tend to ruminate on our lives, our thoughts filled with our preoccupation with ourselves. Then we come outside, and as we cultivate mindful presence, our attention goes outwards. This is why I always tell people “go outside!” It shifts our attention from this self-preoccupation—which is often painful, negative, or catastrophizing—to present-moment reality. So we walk outside, we sit, we live, and we start being influenced by this beautiful, natural world. There's no problem to fix and no self to be improved. It’s just this.
Mark Coleman
Residential Retreat Teacher
Mark has trained extensively in the Buddhist tradition, both in the Insight meditation and in the Dzogchen tradition. He is a senior teacher at Spirit Rock Meditation Center and has taught insight meditation retreats since 1997.
Mark is a life-long nature lover and is passionate about guiding people into the beauty of meditation and nature. He has led wilderness nature retreats worldwide for over twenty years. Through his organization Awake in the Wild Mark leads year long nature meditation teacher trainings in the US and Europe.
Co-founder of the Mindfulness Training Institute Mark also leads year long professional mindfulness teacher trainings in Europe and the US.
He is author of Awake in the Wild - Mindfulness in nature as a path to self-discovery, Make Peace With Your Mind, From Suffering to Peace and his recent book A Field Guide to Nature Meditation.
He lives in Sausalito, Marin and likes nothing more than hiking, biking and kayaking in the outdoors.
Mark Coleman's Upcoming Programs
Training | On-Land Non-Residential | Dharma Institute
April 5 - June 28, 2025 | 4 Sessions | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Awake in the Wild Nature Meditation Program: Nature-Based Mindfulness Practices to Enhance Joy, Wisdom, and Well-Being
12 CE Credits. In these uncertain times, with much of life lived virtually, it is essential that we stay connected to our bodies, our senses, and the earth to access wisdom and perspective. Throughout this program, we will explore nature-based awareness and heart-based meditations that open us to joy, insight, and peace. Immersing ourselves in the beautiful landscapes of Spirit Rock, we will cultivate mindful attention, opening our hearts to receive nature’s wisdom teachings about impermanence, selflessness, and the inter-connection of all life.
Mark Coleman
Short Program | On-Land
Friday, April 11 | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Introduction to Insight Meditation: Managing Stress, Anxiety, and Fear
Join this Insight Meditation daylong to cultivate mindfulness, clarity, and inner peace. Through silent contemplation, you’ll explore the roots of stress and anxiety while learning foundational Buddhist practices for embodying wisdom and compassion. Together we will explore mindfulness, lovingkindness, and compassion meditation practices, which allow you to meet challenges with a kind presence. There will be periods of meditation, talks, inquiry, and discussion. This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen your understanding of Insight Meditation within a supportive community.
Mark Coleman
Short Program | On-Land
Saturday, May 10 | 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Awake in the Wild: Nature as Refuge, Healer and Teacher
Meditate in the serene beauty of Spirit Rock’s meadows, trees, and hills while exploring sensory awareness practices that cultivate insight, interconnection, and love. This immersive daylong offers a refuge from the busyness of modern life, helping you develop a contemplative relationship with the earth. Through guided outdoor meditations, you’ll deepen mindfulness in nature, experience nature as teacher and refuge, and open your heart to a profound love for all beings. Expect moments of awe, mystery, and unexpected delight.
Mark Coleman
Dharma Library
Can't join us live online or on the land? Study and practice at your convenience with Mark Coleman through our new library of recordings, articles, and self-paced online courses.
