Dark Retreat FAQs
FAQ: Dark Retreat at Chamma Ling
Location and Facilities
Where are you located?
We are located in the high-desert landscape of Crestone, Colorado.
Is the cabin and the land off-grid?
No, the cabins are connected to the local power and water grid.
Where does the water in the cabin come from?
Filtered water is available at the kitchen faucet, and water is also available in the bathroom. The water is supplied by the Baca water system.
Is there hot water?
Yes, hot water is available in the cabins.
How is the temperature maintained?
The cabins use a combination of passive-solar design, electric baseboard heating, and a mini-split system for air conditioning. Because the high-altitude climate can shift quickly, we recommend familiarizing yourself with thermostat settings during the preparation day before going into the dark so you don’t have to navigate the thermostat during your retreat.
How is the ventilation?
The cabins have air ventilation to ensure good air quality throughout your stay.
How many dark retreat cabins do you have?
We have four dedicated dark retreat cabins.
The Experience of Darkness
How do I navigate the room and use the bathroom?
Most retreatants spend their first day in the light to familiarize themselves with the layout of the space. Once the retreat begins, you will navigate by touch, feeling your way through the living area, sleeping space, and bathroom.
How do my eyes adjust when I come out of the dark?
For a short dark retreat, to allow for a gentle transition, we recommend exiting the dark retreat in the evening. Spend that night and the following full day at Chamma Ling before departing. Please remember to bring sunglasses for your initial exposure to daylight. For a longer dark retreat, allow 2–3 days.
What do I do in the darkness?
The retreat is primarily an opportunity to rest in the natural state. For many, this involves meditation, contemplation, or simply being present without external distraction.
For Buddhist and Bon practitioners, there are two traditional forms of dark retreat. The short retreat (3–7 days) is an opportunity to experiment with the natural state — being in the dark and observing how the mind creates visions, in order to recognize the true nature of mind. The longer retreat (49 days) uses specific practices to work with those visions as a way of deepening one’s connection to the nature of mind.
Do I need meditation experience?
Because we have no on-site support at Chamma Ling, we ask that you have meditation experience to be in the dark. Depending on your spiritual practice and answers in your application, there could be a conversation about what is needed. If you do not have meditation experience, we invite you to look into this program with Britt Bradford.
What can I expect the experience to be like?
Go in without expectations. The experience is unique to each person who goes into the dark.
How do I record insights in the dark?
Many people find a small audio recorder (with any lights covered or removed) helpful for capturing thoughts or insights without needing to see.
How do I integrate the experience when I come out?
Integration is an essential part of the retreat, which is why we build one to two days of light time into your stay before departure. Use this time to move slowly — rest, eat well, and journal or record any reflections while they’re fresh. Many retreatants find it helpful to stay in touch with their teacher or practice community as they process the experience over the following weeks. For further guidance on integration and dark retreats in general, we recommend Andrew Holecek’s book Total Eclipse Of The Mind..
Booking & Requirements
How many days should I book?
We require an application process, as we prefer retreatants to have an established connection with a teacher or practice. If it is your first time in the dark, we suggest one day in the light, one to three days in the dark, and one to two days for integration.
Can I book longer than three days in the darkness?
Yes. If your application is approved, you may book for a longer duration. For retreats longer than three days, we strongly suggest two days in the light for integration before you depart.
What if I have no prior dark retreat experience?
We will refer you to Britt Bradford, who visits Chamma Ling 2–3 times a year. You can find her schedule and programs on her website. Once you have completed one of her guided programs, you are welcome to return for a solo retreat.
Can we go in as a couple?
While we generally encourage solo retreats, it is possible. Currently, only Cabin 4 is equipped to accommodate two people.
Logistics & Support
How do I eat?
You are responsible for coordinating your own meals. We provide contact information for a local cook whom you can hire directly to bring food once a day. If you prefer to feed yourself, the kitchen has a kettle and microwave (with lights removed), as well as the refrigerator and freezer. We recommend bringing a dark mask to wear if you use the kitchen area to ensure you remain in total darkness. Another option is to practice dark retreat with another person and switch off between making meals and being the retreatant.
What do I need to bring?
Comfortable clothing, a dark mask, sunglasses for exit, and any personal snacks you prefer.
Can I fast during my retreat?
Fasting is not recommended during a dark retreat, as the body and mind are already undergoing a significant adjustment.
What is the support like during the retreat?
We provide an emergency contact person and staff who can assist with moving your items from your car to the cabin and then back to your car at departure with an ATV if needed.
What should I do in an emergency?
You will be provided with the contact information for our emergency support person who is available to assist you.
Can I leave the cabin if needed?
Yes, you can absolutely leave the cabin and turn on the lights. You are not encouraged to remain in the dark or keep the lights off if you are feeling unstable.
Can I do this alone at home?
While some people create dark environments at home, the dedicated cabins at Chamma Ling provide a unique, held container free from the usual interruptions of domestic life.