January 2 - 4, 2026

7am - 3pm Mountain Time (Full schedule below)

Embodying the Open Ground New Year’s Retreat

ZOOM LINK

Daily Retreat Schedule

Morning Session1

7:00 – 8:30am

Morning Break

8:30 - 8:50 am

Morning Session 2

8:50 - 10:30 am

Meal Break

10:30 - 11:40 am

Afternoon Session 1

11:40 am - 1:20 pm

Afternoon Break
Afternoon Session 2
Closing Ritual

1:20 - 1:40 pm

1:40 - 2:55 pm

2:55 - 3:00 pm

Welcome. By being here, you are choosing to begin 2026 grounded and nourished, rooted in the body and remembering what it feels like to simply be.

Preparing for the retreat

As we enter into this shared retreat space, each from our own corner of the world, we invite you to prepare your environment with reverence and care. The physical space you create can support and deepen your inner journey.

❋ Create an Altar or Sacred Practice Space

Creating a dedicated space helps signal to your body and nervous system that this time is set apart. Returning to the same space over the weekend supports presence, continuity, and a felt sense of being held in the practice.

Dedicate a small area in your home or office as your sacred space for the weekend. This can be as simple or elaborate as feels right to you. Include meaningful objects that connect you to your intention—photographs, stones, statues, offerings, or natural elements. Consider adding fresh flowers, and tend to your altar throughout the retreat.

❋ Prepare for Multiple Modes of Practice

We recommend setting up two meditation areas:

  • One on the floor, where you can lie down or sit grounded, have a yoga mat, meditation cushion, or a thick blanket if you're not on carpet.

  • One with a chair, for when your body needs support or rest.

Since we’ll be spending time in somatic and earth-based practices, it’s helpful to have options

❋ Create A Nurturing Atmosphere

Have a lighter and incense ready—or sage, palo santo, or a candle—to light at the beginning of sessions or transitions.

  • Use headphones, AirPods, or a Bluetooth speaker for clearer audio and a more immersive experience.

  • Keep a journal or notebook nearby for reflections and instructions.

  • Have tissues on hand, whether for light breath work, emotional release, or spontaneous insight

❋ Nourishment

During meal breaks, we suggest eating light, grounding, easily digestible foods such as soups, fruits, broths, or simple vegetarian meals. Let your food be part of your contemplative rhythm, supporting clarity and presence rather than heaviness or distraction

  • “Being a student of Planetary Dharma has helped me understand that spiritual practice isn’t separate from the world’s suffering; it’s preparation for meeting it wisely. The training has given me language, practices, and community to stay present in complexity without collapsing or defending. I now feel oriented toward service in a way that’s sustainable and real.”

    Aspen Cohort Student

  • “John and Nicole teach from lived experience, not just theory. There’s a rare balance of human development, transpersonal psychology, embodied meditation, and ethical clarity in their work. I feel both deeply met and challenged in the best way possible. Their guidance has helped me trust my own capacity to grow and to serve.”

    Banyan Cohort Student