Rain Tree - NM Center for Meditative Inquiry and Retreat

Inquiry, Wholeness, and Silent Listening

United States NM donation

located in the mountains east of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Rain Tree offers a unique approach to self-discovery through "direct human inquiry." This tradition-neutral center draws inspiration from teachers like Toni Packer and Krishnamurti, focusing on silent listening, group exploration, and one-on-one dialogue to help individuals uncover wholeness and heal past experiences. The spacious lodge, set beside a national forest, provides a serene backdrop for retreats, with well-lit common areas and a lovely covered deck. While the practice is deeply introspective, the atmosphere is supportive, making it an inviting space for those seeking a profound, personal journey without adherence to a specific spiritual dogma. It's a place where the quiet of the New Mexico landscape complements the quiet of inner reflection.

Highlights

Focus on "direct human inquiry" inspired by teachers like Toni Packer and Krishnamurti
Tradition-neutral approach to meditation and self-discovery
Spacious lodge venue adjacent to a national forest
Vegetarian menu with specific dietary considerations (dairy, grain, bean, soy-free main dishes)

Good for

experienced meditatorssilent retreatsnature loversthose seeking direct inquiryindividuals exploring wholeness

Setting

The retreat is held in the mountains east of Albuquerque, New Mexico, set beside a national forest. The climate is dry and light, with moderate summer temperatures in the 80s during the day and cool evenings, creating a comfortable environment for reflection.

The practice

Rain Tree focuses on "direct human inquiry," a tradition-neutral approach to meditation. This involves silent listening, group exploration, and one-on-one dialogue to uncover wholeness and address "unfinished business." It's less about prescribed techniques and more about direct, personal investigation into one's experience, similar to the teachings of Toni Packer or Krishnamurti.

A typical day

The daily rhythm at Rain Tree centers around silent listening, group exploration, and one-on-one dialogue. While a precise schedule isn't provided, expect periods of quiet reflection interspersed with communal inquiry sessions. The structure is designed to support deep, personal investigation throughout the day.

Accommodation

The retreat takes place in a spacious lodge. While specific room details are not provided, the common areas, including the sitting room, dining area, and kitchen, are described as spacious and well-lit. There is also a covered wooden deck connecting different parts of the lodge.

What to bring

Given the dry, light climate with warm days and cool evenings, pack layers. Comfortable clothing for meditation and walking, along with sun protection, would be advisable. Consider a refillable water bottle.

Address Route 14, Tijeras, NM, USA

How to get there

Rain Tree is located on Route 14 in Tijeras, New Mexico. If flying, arrive at Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ).

Nearest airport: Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) (76 km)

The center can assist with arranging transportation from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), which is approximately 76 km away. They will try to provide complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off.

Nearest city: Albuquerque

Languages

English

Pricing

Rain Tree operates on a donation basis, meaning there is no fixed fee for participation.

Climate

Climate Zone: Temperate

Best Months: Feb, Dec, Mar

Avoid: Jun, Sep, Jul

The region experiences a dry and light climate. Summers are moderate, with daytime temperatures in the 80s Fahrenheit and cooler evenings. Winters are cooler, with January, December, and February being the coolest months. The driest months are February, December, and March, while June, September, and July see more rainfall.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What kind of food is served at Rain Tree?

Rain Tree offers a vegetarian menu. Main dishes are prepared without dairy, grains, beans, or soy products. Dairy, rice, and bread are served on the side, and options like vegan, organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free are available.

Is transportation provided from the airport?

The center can help arrange transportation from Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) for out-of-town attendees. They will attempt to pick you up and return you to the airport at no extra charge, though this may not always be possible.

Are beginners welcome at Rain Tree?

While the center's approach to "direct human inquiry" might appeal to those with some meditative experience, its tradition-neutral stance suggests an openness to anyone genuinely interested in self-exploration. It's best to contact the center directly to discuss if their style aligns with your experience level.

What amenities are available at the retreat lodge?

The lodge features A/C in rooms, free parking, a kitchen, and coffee/tea facilities. There are also spacious and well-lit sitting, dining, and kitchen areas, along with a covered wooden deck.