WHIDBEY ISLAND SUMMER RETREAT
July 15 - 21, 2024
Registration is open for our 2024 Summer Retreat at the Whidbey Institute on Whidbey Island near Seattle, Washington. All students who have learned the whole tai chi form with a Tai Chi Foundation teacher are welcome.
Having a few days to immerse ourselves in the study and practice of tai chi reminds us of our perfectly aware, peaceful self. Retreat days begin outside with a half hour of silent tai chi practice, led by an instructor. Between breakfast and lunch all students are engaged in classes. There are more classes in the afternoon, followed by time for rest, walking in the woods, or venturing out to a local lake for a swim before dinner. Evenings include group activities, as well as time to play outside or socialize.
Classes are focussed on relaxed, contemplative movement that replenishes the body, calms the mind, and refreshes the spirit - with a supportive, friendly community. Each class is tailored to the needs and stage of tai chi learning of the students. The schedule is fine-tuned after we have received all the registrations and know what classes are needed. Greg Woodson and Jonathan Stow are scheduled to teach.
There are a few single rooms as well as double rooms and cabins available. We also have tent camping in the meadow. Retreats include delicious, nourishing meals from Chef Christyn Johnson. The kitchen staff is expert at accommodating special food needs, just let us know what you need on the registration form.
Arrival and Departure
Arrive Monday, July 15 for check-in between 2:00 and 5:00pm. Check out of rooms by 10am and depart by noon on Sunday, July 21. Classes finish before dinner on Saturday, July 20.
Accommodations
The Whidbey Institute offers several different room types. You can learn more here. Rooms will be assigned on a first-come-first-served basis. Tent camping available. (Please ask if you need help with gear. No camping vehicles please.) **Singles are currently full, but we may get openings. Email if you want to be on a waitlist for a single room.
Room assignments: In years past we welcomed people’s requests for a specific room of their choice, which we assigned on a first come-first served basis. In order to make sure those with special needs are able to stay in accommodations that work for them, we will consult with the Institute on room assignments shortly before the event and do our best to assign suitable rooms to folks with special needs before assigning rooms for everyone else.
If you wish to request a specific room, please do so in the Accessibility Needs box on the Your Information section of the registration pages the Institute has set up on their site. We have a limited number of Single rooms and most everyone wants one. Your understanding and selfless generosity of spirit for the well-being of all is greatly appreciated.
It is also possible to stay offsite. There are two lovely hotels in nearby Langley: The Inn at Langley and the Boatyard Inn. Whidbey Island is very popular in the summer. Book early.
Meals
The kitchen at the Whidbey Institute is known for its delicious, locally sourced food. Some of it organically grown in their own garden, all of it is prepared in-house by their expert staff. The kitchen can easily accommodate most food needs and preferences. Three abundant meals a day, plus snacks, are included.
Transportation
In non-rush hour traffic the Whidbey Institute is about 90 minutes northwest of Seattle, WA, by car and ferry. However, there can be a wait time of two hours or more to board the ferry in the summer. For those flying, the closest airport is Paine Field, which is a small airport in Everett, WA. SeaTac Airport is much larger, but farther away. The Whidbey Shuttle provides transport to the island from both airports and we can arrange to pick you up from the shuttle stop. (You need to reserve the shuttle in advance. The shuttle stop to indicate when reserving is Langley/Clinton at Ken's Korner. Happily, the shuttle bypasses the ferry line.)
Cost
Cost, including tuition, meals, facility fee and lodging/camping is:
$1260 + tax for camping or commuting
$1860 + tax per person for a shared room
$2250 + tax for a single room.
Cancellation Policy of the Whidbey Institute:
We understand that unexpected things happen in life; we request your help in ensuring that we are operating together in integrity. If you find it necessary to cancel, a full refund, minus a non-refundable registration fee of $125.00, will be given if notice is received at least 60 days prior to the beginning of the event. For cancellations received less than 60 days prior to the start date, NO refund will be given, regardless of the reason. Please communicate changes as soon as possible to registration@whidbeyinstitute.org.
Email us with questions about this retreat.