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DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210327T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210327T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
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SUMMARY:Whatever You Meet Is The Path: A One-Day Meditation and Mindfulness Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Begin\, renew\, or deepen your meditation and mindfulness practice. \nWe’ll follow a gentle schedule of meditation and walking meditation\, interspersed with time to write\, reflect\, connect\, and take in the richness of our lives. The schedule includes a short presentation and discussion. \n“Meditation is just to be ourselves…That is our way\, to live fully in each moment of time. This practice continues forever.”\n–Shunryu Suzuki
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/meet-the-path/
CATEGORIES:Virtual Event
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210420T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210511T173000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20201215T230651Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221216T062334Z
UID:10000156-1618934400-1620754200@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Seven Practices of a Mindful Leader Online Course
DESCRIPTION:As a leader\, you work to get results. You worry about targets\, quarters\, attracting talent… and you feel a constant pressure to grow. But sometimes you focus so much on these end goals that you don’t pay attention to your journey. \nThe result? You feel out of touch and dragged along. \nIt’s only when you face problems in your team\, or productivity takes a nose-dive that you peer over the balance sheets and realize you’re not where you wanted to be. \nThe truth is\, leadership is about more than numbers. People and connections and relationships matter. \nMindful leaders are more successful\, less stressed\, and more connected to their purpose. \nYou can be the kind of leader who… \n\nCultivates productivity through authentic relationships\nCommunicates what matters and brings people with them\nBuilds alignment within their teams\nBrings out the best in themselves and others\n\nIn this four-week interactive course\, you’ll discover how to use the tools of mindfulness to develop emotional intelligence so you can be more purposeful\, present\, and empathetic in your workplace. \nBy the end of this course\, you’ll understand how to do the work that will move you from fire-fighting and overwhelm to a more connected and effective form of leadership. \nWe’re all leaders and we can all benefit from being more awake and connected in our everyday lives. Join us and learn how to be a more purposeful\, active\, and empathetic force for change in your organization.
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/7po-april2021/
CATEGORIES:Online Course
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210605T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210605T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20210505T232156Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221216T062330Z
UID:10000093-1622883600-1622896200@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Step Into Your Life - A 1/2 Day Virtual Retreat
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more/faster/better\, this half-day retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. We will explore the practices of effort and effortless as a path to well-being and “stepping into your life.” \nTogether we’ll follow a gentle schedule of meditation\, talk\, and some discussion\, interspersed with time to write\, reflect\, and take in the richness of our lives. \nThis event is suitable for anyone looking to begin\, renew\, or deepen a mindfulness and meditation practice\, and no prior experience with meditation is necessary. \n“The practice I speak of is not meditation. It is simply the dharma gate of repose and bliss…It is the manifestation of ultimate reality…Once its heart is grasped\, you are like a dragon when he gains the water\, like a tiger when she enters the mountains.”\n–Dogen
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/step-into-your-life-june-2021/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Virtual Event
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210827
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20211219
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20210510T012602Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221216T062324Z
UID:10000094-1630022400-1639871999@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Mindful Leadership Training at Spirit Rock
DESCRIPTION:This certificate training program is open to and designed for leaders and aspiring leaders in both the non-profit and for-profit sectors.  We will cultivate the mindful and compassionate leadership skills of focus\, clarity\, emotional regulation\, well-being\, self-awareness\, caring for self and others\, with a mindset of service to community and the world. \nThrough mindfulness curriculum\, meditation instruction\, group discussions\, and practice opportunities\, we will cultivate skills and behaviors that can be applied directly to our personal and professional lives. By developing and incorporating these intentional practices\, we will strengthen professional relationships and workplace environments\, expanding impact beyond our own learning for the broader benefit of our work and organization(s). \n\nThis program includes training in three realms: personal\, relational\, and organizational. Some included themes are:\nMindful\, compassionate\, values-aligned leadership\nCourageous conversations\nBuilding and empowering effective partnerships and teams\nPersonal ecology: self-care\, well being\, resilience\nSelf-awareness and self-management: emotional intelligence and working with difficult emotions\nCoaching and mentoring: compassionate accountability\nFostering belonging\n\nRegistration closes August 23rd. Learn more and/or Register here.
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/mindful-leadership-training-at-spirit-rock-august-2021/
LOCATION:Spirit Rock\, Community Meditation Center\, 5000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd\, Woodacre\, CA\, 94973\, United States
CATEGORIES:Online Course
ORGANIZER;CN="Spirit Rock":MAILTO:srmc@spiritrock.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220105T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220330T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20211204T015925Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221216T062320Z
UID:10000095-1641405600-1648668600@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Zen Wisdom for Modern Times: 3-month Practice Period
DESCRIPTION:This three-month mindfulness and meditation online program is for anyone looking to begin\, renew\, or intensify a meditation practice. It’s a time to bring more attention and commitment to what matters most and to how we “show up” in our lives. \nAll experience levels are welcome\, from those beginning to those with a lifetime of meditation experience. \nThe theme for this practice period is Zen Wisdom For Modern Times. Our focus will be on how Zen practice can be integrated into daily life to help us: \n– cultivate greater wellbeing\n– navigate change and challenges\n– discover more meaning and purpose in work and relationship \nDATES\, SCHEDULE\, AND COST \nWe’ll meet every Wednesday from January 5 – March 30\, 2022 \nSchedule:\n6:00 – 6:30: meditation\n6:30 – 7:00: teaching\n7:00 – 7:30: group discussion w/breakout groups \nScholarships available (no one turned away for lack of funds). Request more info. 
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/zen-wisdom-modern-times-practice-period/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Virtual Event
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220826T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20221217T163000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20220607T152451Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221216T062315Z
UID:10000097-1661506200-1671294600@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Mindful Leadership Training at Spirit Rock (Online)
DESCRIPTION:Description:\nThis certificate training program is open to and designed for leaders and aspiring leaders in both the non-profit and for-profit sectors. We will cultivate mindful and compassionate leadership skills and practices to embody our care for ourselves and others\, with a mindset of service to community and the world. \nA core\, distinct pedagogical approach of this program is participating in and co-learning with a supportive community of like-minded peers both in the large group and small monthly pod meetings. Through lectures\, group discussion\, guided meditations\, readings\, reflections\, experiential exercises\, and personal meditation practice\, we will cultivate skills and behaviors that can be applied directly to our personal and professional lives. By developing and incorporating these intentional practices\, we will strengthen professional relationships and workplace environments\, expanding impact beyond our own learning for the broader benefit of our work and organization(s). \nThis program includes training in three realms: personal\, relational\, and organizational. Some included themes are: \n\nMindful\, compassionate\, values-aligned leadership\nCultivating well-being: self-care\, rest\, and resilience\nSelf-awareness and self-management: emotional intelligence and working with difficult emotions\nTransforming professional and personal relationships through embodied\, skillful communication\nCourageous conversations\nEmpowering and inspiring people and teams\nCoaching and mentoring: compassionate accountability\nFostering and co-creating belonging\n\nProgram Includes:\nMonthly large group sessions – online (recorded)\nMonthly small team sessions\nDaily and monthly home practices and readings\nMonthly written reflections\nMonthly office hours – online (recorded)\nOptional opt-in affinity groups \nDates:\nProgram runs August 26 – December 17\, 2022. Specific training dates below. All large group session times are: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. US Pacific Time.\nFri-Sat\, Aug 26-27 (2 days); Opening Weekend\nFri\, Sept 23\nFri\, Oct 21\nFri\, Nov 18\nFri-Sat\, Dec 16-17 (2 days); Closing Weekend \nLocation:\nOnline via Zoom \nLearn more about the program here. Register now.
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/mindful-leadership-training-spirit-rock-2022/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Spirit Rock":MAILTO:srmc@spiritrock.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220911T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20220916T130000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20220214T081137Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221216T062311Z
UID:10000096-1662919200-1663333200@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:7 Practices of a Mindful Leader - Hollyhock\, Cortez Island\, BC
DESCRIPTION:7 Practices of a Mindful Leader with Lee Klinger Lesser and Marc Lesser \nIn our world of busyness – of more\, faster\, better – this retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. \nIt is a time to step fully into the richness of our lives. Together we will follow a gentle schedule of sensory awareness practice and sitting meditation interspersed with talks\, Zen stories\, journal writing\, as well as small group and large group dialogue as we uncover how these stories and dialogues may be utilized to transform our way of being in the world as leaders. \nLeadership is primarily about cultivating clarity\, empowering others\, and skillfully responding to change. Each day our practice will be focused on one or two of the seven practices of a mindful leader described below: \n• Love the work\n• Do the work\n• Don’t be an expert\n• Connect to your pain\n• Connect to the pain of others\n• Depend on others\n• Keep making it simpler \nWe are all leaders. We all lead our own lives and we all have tremendous influence in our work\, families\, and relationships. We will practice developing ways to integrate mindfulness into our ability to envision\, connect\, empower\, and collaborate. Sensory Awareness and Zen are practices through which we connect with our natural intelligence and vitality; we can discover what responds in us in the midst of change and growth; and we can learn to rely on our sensations as guides to the fresh terrain of each moment. \nThis workshop focuses on tools that help us to be present\, tools that are antidotes to busyness and that support our ability to be in touch with what matters most. By slowing down and looking deeply\, we can connect with our sensations and our deepest aspirations and find the freedom and open-heartedness that are our birthright. \nStarts with dinner on September 11 and ends with lunch on September 16. A detailed schedule will be available 1-2 weeks in advance of the program. \nRegister here.
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/7-practices-of-a-mindful-leader-9-11-2022/
LOCATION:Hollyhock Leadership Learning Centre\, Highfield Rd\, Comox-Strathcona I\, BC\, V0P 1K0\, Canada
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230118T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230405T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20221215T221357Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230314T075345Z
UID:10000098-1674064800-1680723000@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Appreciate Your Life: 3-month Practice Period
DESCRIPTION:This 3-month Mindfulness and Meditation Practice Period is for anyone looking to begin\, renew\, or intensify a meditation practice.  \nAll experience levels are welcome\, from those beginning to those with a lifetime of meditation experience. Together\, we will form a community of listening and support\, and will bring attention and commitment to regular meditation practice and to how we “show up” in all parts of our lives. \nThe theme for this practice period is Appreciating Your Life. Our focus will be on how Zen practice can be integrated into daily life to help us: \n– cultivate greater wellbeing\n– navigate change and challenges\n– discover more meaning and purpose in work and relationship \nDATES\, SCHEDULE\, AND COST \nWe’ll meet every Wednesday from January 18 – April 5\, 2023 \nSchedule:\n6:00 – 6:30: meditation\n6:30 – 7:00: teaching\n7:00 – 7:30: group discussion w/breakout groups \nSESSION BREAKDOWN \nJanuary 18: What’s Zen Got To Do With It?\nIn our opening Practice Period session\, we will talk about Zen practice and its application to our modern world. Marc will introduce the book Zen Mind\, Beginner’s Mind and the teachings of Shunryu Suzuki. \nJanuary 25: Beginner’s Mind\nA discussion of “beginner’s mind” – the art and practice of seeing and experiencing everything as fresh and new. We will explore the meaning and power of Zen as a non-dualistic practice\, and developing a mind that is ready for anything. \nFebruary 1: Precise Forms for A Flexible Mind\nA discussion of the first talk from Zen Mind\, Beginner’s Mind on “Posture.” \nFebruary 8: Exploring the Breath\nA deep dive into the practice of meditation – the practice of fully being ourselves. \nFebruary 15: Control\nA discussion of the paradox of intention and letting go. \nFebruary 22: Thinking Mind\nFinding equanimity in the midst of a turbulent world. \nMarch 1: The Power of Attention\nThe contrasting practices of effort and effortlessness\, in meditation and all parts of our lives. \nMarch 8: You Are Not Your Problems\nShifting our relationship with challenges and difficulties. \nMarch 15: Living Beyond Duality\nHow to not feel limited by ideas of success and failure\, effort and effortlessness. We explore what is meant by “no gaining ideas.” \nMarch 22: Humility and Confidence\nAn exploration of the concept of Big Mind in Zen practice and how it supports greater humility and greater confidence. \nMarch 29: Everyday Mind Is the Way\nHow to drop into our ordinary\, extraordinary minds and hearts. \nApril 5: The Practice of Focus\nThe practice of focus as the practice of appreciating our lives. \nScholarships available (no one turned away for lack of funds). Request more info. 
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/zen-wisdom-modern-times-practice-period-2023/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Virtual Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://marclesser.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Appreciate-Your-Life_PP2023.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20230825T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231209T163000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20230729T163223Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230729T163223Z
UID:10000160-1692955800-1702139400@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Mindful Leadership Training
DESCRIPTION:Nikki Mirghafori\, PhD and Marc Lesser\nSponsored by Spirit Rock \nThis online certificate training program is open to and designed for leaders and aspiring leaders in both the non-profit and for-profit sectors. We will cultivate mindful and compassionate leadership skills and practices to embody our care for ourselves and others\, with a mindset of service to community and the world. \nA core\, distinct pedagogical approach of this program is participating in and co-learning with a supportive community of like-minded peers both in the large group and small monthly pod meetings. Through lectures\, group discussion\, guided meditations\, readings\, reflections\, experiential exercises\, and personal meditation practice\, we will cultivate skills and behaviors that can be applied directly to our personal and professional lives. By developing and incorporating these intentional practices\, we will strengthen professional relationships and workplace environments\, expanding impact beyond our own learning for the broader benefit of our work and organization(s). \nThis program includes training in three realms: personal\, relational\, and organizational. Some included themes are: \n\nMindful\, compassionate\, values-aligned leadership\nCultivating well-being: self-care\, rest\, and resilience\nSelf-awareness and self-management: emotional intelligence and working with difficult emotions\nTransforming professional and personal relationships through embodied\, skillful communication\nCourageous conversations\nEmpowering and inspiring people and teams\nCoaching and mentoring: compassionate accountability\nFostering and co-creating belonging\n\nPROGRAM INCLUDES: \n\nMonthly large group sessions – online (recorded)\nMonthly team sessions\nDaily and monthly home practices and readings\nMonthly written reflections\nMonthly Q&As – online (recorded)\nOptional opt-in affinity groups\n\n  \n 
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/mindful-leadership-training/
LOCATION:Zoom
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231022T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20231022T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20230814T154526Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231019T215428Z
UID:10000161-1697965200-1697977800@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Step Into Your Life: One Half-Day Meditation Retreat (In person and online)
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more/faster/better\, this half-day retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. We will explore the practices of effort and effortless as a path to well-being and “stepping into your life.” \nTogether we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, a talk\, and some discussion. Anyone looking to begin or deepen a meditation and mindfulness practice is invited to attend. \nWhat is meditation? I like a definition proposed by Dogen\, the 13th century founder of Zen in Japan: “The practice I speak of is not meditation. It is simply the dharma gate of repose and bliss…It is the manifestation of ultimate reality…Once its heart is grasped\, you are like a dragon when he gains the water\, like a tiger when she enters the mountains.”
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/step-into-your-life-one-half-day-meditation-retreat-in-person-and-online/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240128T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240128T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20231212T163556Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231214T233356Z
UID:10000163-1706434200-1706445000@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Half Day Retreat
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more/faster/better\, this half-day retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. We will explore the practices of effort and effortless as a path to well-being and “stepping into your life.” \nTogether we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, a talk\, and some discussion. Anyone looking to begin or deepen a meditation and mindfulness practice is invited to attend. \nWhat is meditation? I like a definition proposed by Dogen\, the 13th century founder of Zen in Japan: “The practice I speak of is not meditation. It is simply the dharma gate of repose and bliss…It is the manifestation of ultimate reality…Once its heart is grasped\, you are like a dragon when he gains the water\, like a tiger when she enters the mountains.”
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/half-day-retreat/
LOCATION:Mill Valley
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240407T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20240407T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20240123T150007Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240204T153154Z
UID:10000164-1712480400-1712493000@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Half Day Retreat\, In-Person and Online\, Sunday\, April 7th
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more/faster/better\, this half-day retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. We will explore the practices of effort and effortless as a path to well-being and “stepping into your life.” \nTogether we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, a talk\, and some discussion. Anyone looking to begin or deepen a meditation and mindfulness practice is invited to attend. \nWhat is meditation? I like a definition proposed by Dogen\, the 13th century founder of Zen in Japan: “The practice I speak of is not meditation. It is simply the dharma gate of repose and bliss…It is the manifestation of ultimate reality…Once its heart is grasped\, you are like a dragon when he gains the water\, like a tiger when she enters the mountains.”
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/half-day-retreat-in-person-and-online-sunday-april-7th/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241013T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241013T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20240329T211429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240611T173636Z
UID:10000165-1728810000-1728822600@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Half Day Retreat\, In Person (Mill Valley) and Online\, Sunday\, October 13th
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more/faster/better\, this half-day retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. We will explore the practices of effort and effortless as a path to well-being and “stepping into your life.”  \nTogether we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, a talk\, and some discussion. Anyone looking to begin or deepen a meditation and mindfulness practice is invited to attend.  \nWhat is meditation? I like a definition proposed by Dogen\, the 13th century founder of Zen in Japan: “The practice I speak of is not meditation. It is simply the dharma gate of repose and bliss…It is the manifestation of ultimate reality…Once its heart is grasped\, you are like a dragon when he gains the water\, like a tiger when she enters the mountains.”
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/half-day-retreat-in-person-mill-valley-and-online-october-13/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241101T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241103T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20240414T134136Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240414T134143Z
UID:10000166-1730476800-1730649600@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Step Into Your Life. A Zen-Inspired Retreat. Green Gulch Farm\, November 1 - 3.
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more\, faster\, better\, this retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew – a time to step fully into the richness of your life. Together we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, interspersed with talks and discussions from the wisdom of Zen teaching as we explore how these stories and dialogues may be utilized in our relationships\, our work\, and our lives. \nWe will practice with the essence of meditation\, just sitting with what is. And we will experience a variety of guided meditations\, exploring our inner voices\, our intuition\, and our emotions. Through meditations\, conversations\, awareness practices\, and writing we’ll create a safe\, vital\, and meaningful time of learning together. This retreat is open to all people interested in stopping\, exploring\, and bringing more awareness and mindfulness to daily life. \nTo register.
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/step-into-your-life-a-zen-inspired-retreat-green-gulch-farm-november-1-3/
LOCATION:Green Gulch Farm\, Muir Beach\, CA\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241208T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20241208T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20241001T151304Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241001T151304Z
UID:10000168-1733648400-1733661000@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Half Day Retreat In Mill Valley (and Online) December 8th
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more/faster/better\, this half-day retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. We will explore the practices of effort and effortless as a path to well-being and “stepping into your life.”  Together we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, a talk\, and some discussion. Anyone looking to begin or deepen a meditation and mindfulness practice is invited to attend.  What is meditation? I like a definition proposed by Dogen\, the 13th century founder of Zen in Japan: “The practice I speak of is not meditation. It is simply the dharma gate of repose and bliss…It is the manifestation of ultimate reality…Once its heart is grasped\, you are like a dragon when he gains the water\, like a tiger when she enters the mountains.”
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/half-day-retreat-in-mill-valley-and-online-december-8th/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250108T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250211T182539
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20241016T010217Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250211T182538Z
UID:10000170-1736359200-1739298339@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Appreciating Your Life\, A 3-Month Online Zen Retreat/Practice Period\, January 8 - April 2\, 2025
DESCRIPTION:A 3-month Practice Period is a great way to begin or deepen your mindfulness and meditation practice and cultivate ways for integrating mindfulness practice with your work and all parts of your life \nOnline meetings are Wednesday from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. PT. We will begin each session with 30 minutes of lightly guided meditation\, followed by a short talk\, as well as small group and large group discussions. \nThe theme for the Practice Period is Appreciating Your Life. This is the underlying theme of meditation practice and Zen practice – seeing and feeling everything\, the good\, bad\, ugly\, beautiful – as gift and an opportunity to learn\, grow\, and engage. It’s the practice of feeling deeply\, opening our hearts and minds\, with a mindset of appreciation\, and of being of benefit\, through our ability to see more clearly\, to accept what is\, and work effectively with change and for change. \nOur focus will be on how Zen practice can be integrated into daily life to help us:\n– cultivate greater wellbeing\n– navigate change and challenges\n– discover more meaning and purpose in work and relationship \nOur primary reading for the practice period is Branching Streams Flow In The Darkness\, Zen Talks on a poem called the Sandokai\, or the Harmony of Difference and Equality. This is an excellent primer on the non-dual teaching is Zen practice and how to apply them to your wellbeing\, relationships\, work\, and social and environmental responsibility. \nBeing part of a community that meets weekly is a powerful way to find more clarity and connection as we begin a New Year. Each week we will meditate together for 30 minutes. Then\, I’ll give a short talk\, unpacking ideas and practices from Branching Stream Flow In The Darkness. We will have a variety of small group and large group discussions\, to practice and deepen the tools and themes discussed. Each week you will leave with an actionable insight\, or a practice\, and a suggested reading. \nWeekly sessions will be recorded and made available in case you miss any sessions or want to revisit them. \nI hope you will join me. \nBest regards\, \nMarc
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/appreciating-your-life-a-3-month-online-zen-retreat-practice-period-january-8-april-2-2025/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250202T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250202T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20241001T151716Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T173544Z
UID:10000169-1738486800-1738499400@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Half Day Retreat in Mill Valley (and Online) February 2nd
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more/faster/better\, this half-day retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. We will explore the practices of effort and effortless as a path to well-being and “stepping into your life.”  Together we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, a talk\, and some discussion. Anyone looking to begin or deepen a meditation and mindfulness practice is invited to attend.  What is meditation? I like a definition proposed by Dogen\, the 13th century founder of Zen in Japan: “The practice I speak of is not meditation. It is simply the dharma gate of repose and bliss…It is the manifestation of ultimate reality…Once its heart is grasped\, you are like a dragon when he gains the water\, like a tiger when she enters the mountains.”
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/half-day-retreat-in-mill-valley-and-online-february-2nd/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250330T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250330T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20250330T213321Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250330T213321Z
UID:10000175-1743321600-1743354000@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Half-day Retreat\, In-person and Online\, December 14th
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more/faster/better\, this half-day retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. We will explore the practices of effort and effortless as a path to well-being and “stepping into your life.”  Together we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, a talk\, and some discussion. Anyone looking to begin or deepen a meditation and mindfulness practice is invited to attend.  What is meditation? I like a definition proposed by Dogen\, the 13th century founder of Zen in Japan: “The practice I speak of is not meditation. It is simply the dharma gate of repose and bliss…It is the manifestation of ultimate reality…Once its heart is grasped\, you are like a dragon when he gains the water\, like a tiger when she enters the mountains.”
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/half-day-retreat-in-person-and-online-december-14th/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250330T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250330T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20241211T204248Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241211T204248Z
UID:10000171-1743325200-1743337800@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Half-day Retreat\, In Person and Online March 30th
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more/faster/better\, this half-day retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. We will explore the practices of effort and effortless as a path to well-being and “stepping into your life.”  Together we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, a talk\, and some discussion. Anyone looking to begin or deepen a meditation and mindfulness practice is invited to attend.  What is meditation? I like a definition proposed by Dogen\, the 13th century founder of Zen in Japan: “The practice I speak of is not meditation. It is simply the dharma gate of repose and bliss…It is the manifestation of ultimate reality…Once its heart is grasped\, you are like a dragon when he gains the water\, like a tiger when she enters the mountains.”
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/half-day-retreat-in-person-and-online-march-30th/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250705T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250705T113000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20250622T155611Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250622T155615Z
UID:10000177-1751709600-1751715000@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Public Talk. San Francisco Zen Center\, 300 Page Street\, and Online. July 5\, 2025\, 10:00 a.m.
DESCRIPTION:Marc will give the Saturday morning public dharma talk\, on July 5\, 2025\, 10:00 a.m. PT at the San Francisco Zen Center. \n300 Page Street\, San Francisco CA 94102 \nEveryone is welcome. No fee. \nMore info and livestream.
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/public-talk-san-francisco-zen-center-300-page-street-and-online-july-5-2025-1000-a-m/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250713T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250713T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20250402T202840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250402T202840Z
UID:10000176-1752397200-1752409800@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Half-day Retreat\, In-person and online\, July 13th
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more/faster/better\, this half-day retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. We will explore the practices of effort and effortless as a path to well-being and “stepping into your life.”  Together we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, a talk\, and some discussion. Anyone looking to begin or deepen a meditation and mindfulness practice is invited to attend.  What is meditation? I like a definition proposed by Dogen\, the 13th century founder of Zen in Japan: “The practice I speak of is not meditation. It is simply the dharma gate of repose and bliss…It is the manifestation of ultimate reality…Once its heart is grasped\, you are like a dragon when he gains the water\, like a tiger when she enters the mountains.”
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/half-day-retreat-in-person-and-online-july-13th/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250824T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250824T113000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20250622T160059Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250622T160059Z
UID:10000178-1756029600-1756035000@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Public Talk. Green Gulch Farm\, Muir Beach\, In-person and online\, August 24th\, 2025\, 10:00 a.m.
DESCRIPTION:Marc will give the public dharma talk on Sunday\, August 24th\, 2025 at San Francisco Zen Center’s Green Gulch Farm. \nTime: 10:00 a.m.
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/public-talk-green-gulch-farm-muir-beach-in-person-and-online-august-24th-2025-1000-a-m/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250826T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250831T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20250211T181025Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250211T181025Z
UID:10000172-1756224000-1756638000@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Step Into Your Life. A Zen Inspired Retreat. Tassajara\, August 26 - 31
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more\, faster\, better\, this retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew—a time to step fully into the richness of your life. Together we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, interspersed with talks and discussions from the wisdom of Zen teaching as we explore how these stories and dialogues may be utilized in our relationships\, our work\, and our lives. \nWe will practice with the essence of meditation\, just sitting with what is. And we will experience a variety of guided meditations\, exploring our inner voices\, our intuition\, and our emotions. Through meditations\, Zen teachings and stories\, conversations\, awareness practices\, and writing we’ll create a safe\, vital\, and meaningful time of learning together. This retreat is open to everyone interested in stopping\, exploring\, and bringing more awareness and mindfulness to daily life. \nFor more information and to register: https://www.sfzc.org/calendar/events/tassajara/step-your-life-zen-inspired-retreat-zmc-826-831
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/step-into-your-life-a-zen-inspired-retreat-tassajara-august-26-31/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251012T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251012T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20250330T213116Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250330T213117Z
UID:10000174-1760259600-1760272200@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Half-day Retreat\, In-person and Online\, October 12th
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more/faster/better\, this half-day retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. We will explore the practices of effort and effortless as a path to well-being and “stepping into your life.”  Together we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, a talk\, and some discussion. Anyone looking to begin or deepen a meditation and mindfulness practice is invited to attend.  What is meditation? I like a definition proposed by Dogen\, the 13th century founder of Zen in Japan: “The practice I speak of is not meditation. It is simply the dharma gate of repose and bliss…It is the manifestation of ultimate reality…Once its heart is grasped\, you are like a dragon when he gains the water\, like a tiger when she enters the mountains.”
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/half-day-retreat-in-person-and-online-october-12th/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251024
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251206
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20250808T233931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250808T234443Z
UID:10000179-1761264000-1764979199@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Zen of Coaching: Online Training with Marc Lesser\, Five Fridays - October 24 - December 5
DESCRIPTION:Zen of Coaching is a transformational online program for executive coaches and leaders who want to deepen their presence\, expand their impact\, and build a coaching practice rooted in wisdom\, not just performance. Blending Zen principles\, mindfulness\, and real-world leadership experience\, this course—created by Marc Lesser\, the Zen teacher and CEO who helped bring mindful leadership to Google—supports you in cultivating stillness\, navigating complexity\, and coaching with greater authenticity\, clarity\, and purpose. \n\n\n  Enroll Now
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/zen-of-coaching-online-training-with-marc-lesser-five-fridays-october-24-december-5/
CATEGORIES:Online Course
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260107T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260325T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20251104T155832Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T090840Z
UID:10000181-1767808800-1774467000@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:3-Month Practice Period\, Becoming Yourself\, January - March\, Online
DESCRIPTION:A 3-month Practice Period is a great way to begin or deepen your mindfulness and meditation practice and cultivate ways for integrating mindfulness practice with your work and all parts of your life. \nOnline meetings are Wednesday from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. PT. We will begin each session with 30 minutes of lightly guided meditation\, followed by a short talk\, as well as small group and large group discussions. \nThe theme for the Practice Period is Becoming Yourself. This is the underlying theme of meditation practice and Zen practice – studying yourself and going beyond yourself; seeing and feeling openly\, the good\, bad\, ugly\, beautiful – as gift and an opportunity to learn\, grow\, and engage. It’s the practice of feeling deeply\, opening our hearts and minds\, with a mindset of appreciation\, and of being of benefit\, through our ability to see more clearly\, to accept what is\, and work effectively with change and for change. \nOur focus will be on how Zen practice can be integrated into daily life to help us:\n– cultivate greater wellbeing\n– navigate change and challenges\n– discover more meaning and purpose in work and relationship \nOur primary reading for the practice period is Becoming Yourself\, Zen Talks from Shunryu Suzuki This is an excellent primer on the non-dual teaching is Zen practice and how to apply them to your wellbeing\, relationships\, work\, and social and environmental responsibility. \nBeing part of a community that meets weekly is a powerful way to find more clarity and connection as we begin a New Year. Each week we will meditate together for 30 minutes. Then\, I’ll give a short talk\, unpacking ideas and practices from Becoming Yourself. We will have a variety of small group and large group discussions\, to practice and deepen the tools and themes discussed. Each week you will leave with an actionable insight\, or a practice\, and a suggested reading. \nWeekly sessions will be recorded and made available in case you miss any sessions or want to revisit them.
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/3-month-practice-period-becoming-yourself-january-march-online/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260111T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260111T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20251105T012727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251207T230728Z
UID:10000182-1768122000-1768134600@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Half-day Retreat\, January 11th\, In-person\, (Mill Valley) and Online
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more/faster/better\, this half-day retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. We will explore the practices of effort and effortless as a path to well-being and “stepping into your life.”  Together we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, a talk\, and some discussion. Anyone looking to begin or deepen a meditation and mindfulness practice is invited to attend.  What is meditation? I like a definition proposed by Dogen\, the 13th century founder of Zen in Japan: “The practice I speak of is not meditation. It is simply the dharma gate of repose and bliss…It is the manifestation of ultimate reality…Once its heart is grasped\, you are like a dragon when he gains the water\, like a tiger when she enters the mountains.”
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/half-day-retreat-january-11th-in-person-mill-valley-and-online/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260205T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260208T120000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20250910T155626Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250911T143506Z
UID:10000180-1770303600-1770552000@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Finding Your Way. A Zen Inspired Retreat. Green Gulch Farm\, February 5th - 8th
DESCRIPTION:Much of our lives are spent searching for more\, for better—for something other than who we are and the world we find ourselves in. This retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, renew\, and discover the art and practice of appreciation and wonder. Drawing on the teachings and wisdom of Zen\, the weekend will include periods of meditation\, guided reflections\, short talks\, and small and large group conversations. We’ll explore themes of impermanence\, effort and effortlessness\, and the freedom that arises when we release judgment and embrace what is. \nThis retreat invites you to pause\, breathe\, and listen deeply\, beyond the noise of striving and self-comparison. Finding Your Way is not about fixing or achieving\, but about softening into clarity and trust in forging your own path. Rather than searching for answers “out there\,” this retreat nurtures the capacity to meet our lives with curiosity\, compassion\, and fresh eyes. \nWhether you’re in a moment of transition\, seeking deeper clarity\, or simply longing to rest and renew\, this retreat offers space to explore\, heal\, and grow. \nNo prior meditation experience is needed. Come as you are. Leave with less weight\, more wonder\, and a renewed connection to your own way. \nTo Register: https://www.sfzc.org/calendar/events/green-gulch-farm/finding-your-way-zen-inspired-retreat-ggf-25-28
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/finding-your-way-a-zen-inspired-retreat-green-gulch-farm-february-5th-8th/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260322T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260322T123000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20251105T013032Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260317T002116Z
UID:10000183-1774170000-1774182600@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Half-day Retreat\, In-Person (Mill Valley) and Online\, March 22nd
DESCRIPTION:In our world of busyness\, of more/faster/better\, this half-day retreat offers time to stop\, reflect\, and renew. We will explore the practices of effort and effortless as a path to well-being and “stepping into your life.”  Together we’ll follow a gentle schedule of sitting and walking meditation\, a talk\, and some discussion. Anyone looking to begin or deepen a meditation and mindfulness practice is invited to attend.  What is meditation? I like a definition proposed by Dogen\, the 13th century founder of Zen in Japan: “The practice I speak of is not meditation. It is simply the dharma gate of repose and bliss…It is the manifestation of ultimate reality…Once its heart is grasped\, you are like a dragon when he gains the water\, like a tiger when she enters the mountains.”
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/half-day-retreat-in-person-mill-valley-and-online-march-22nd/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260404T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260404T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T151339
CREATED:20260225T165048Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T165048Z
UID:10000186-1775296800-1775300400@marclesser.net
SUMMARY:Public Talk\, San Francisco Zen Center\, 300 Page Street\, In-person and online\, April 4th
DESCRIPTION:Marc will give the public talk at the San Francisco Zen Center on Saturday\, April 4th at 10:00 a.m. \n300 Page Street\, San Francisco. \nFree \nhttps://www.sfzc.org/calendar/events/city-center/saturday-1000-am-dharma-talk-marc-lesser-livestreamonsite-44
URL:https://marclesser.net/event/public-talk-san-francisco-zen-center-300-page-street-in-person-and-online-april-4th/
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR