(The following profile is part of an ongoing series to explore inspirational stories of healing and education centers and retreats with aspirations similar to those of The Bend Center. Further information can be found at the Green Gulch Farm Zen Center website)
The Green Gulch Center offers training in Zen meditation, guest speakers, a conference center, guest cottages, retreat programs, work programs and an organic farm and garden, which sells produce and vegetables at Farmers Markets in the area (during the May-Oct season). When one walks the grounds of Green Gulch, the tranquility and peacefulness of the place belies the fact that you are only a few miles north of the bustling metropolis of San Francisco and its surrounding environs. There is not just the physical beauty of the place that supports this sense, but also the spiritual feeling that comes with the presence of the practicing Zen community that lives on its grounds.
Facilities for conferences, seminars, workshops and retreats are offered to companies and organizations that may want to take advantage of the beautiful surroundings and peaceful atmosphere. A calendar offers a variety of classes from bread making and calligraphy to helping business people apply Buddhist principles in the work place. Interested persons can sign up and register online and classes typically cost less than $100 each (discounted, if member or limited income). Limited overnight accommodations are simple and clean with reservation availability checked online and contacting 415.383.3134 to reserve. The Green Gulch Farm Zen Center is worth a special trip if you find yourself north of San Francisco Bay. It has such a sense of peace there and as a special bonus, it's less than a mile walk to Muir Beach! Additional photos can be seen here... Blessings on this day, Jeremiah
