What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is moment-to-moment non-judgmental awareness, an innate capacity within all of us and at the heart of all programs we offer at Copper Beech Institute. 

What is meditation? 

Meditation is one particular way of cultivating mindfulness. While there are many modes of meditation and yoga that are explored in our programs, mindful breathing and mindful walking as taught by Thich Nhat Hanh and Jon Kabat-Zinn form the heart of our practice.

What other types of meditation are practiced at Copper Beech Institute?

Copper Beech Institute is committed to providing a space for meditation and contemplative practices from varied traditions, including zazen, yoga, centering prayer, lectio divina, insight meditation (vipassana) and loving-kindness (metta) meditation.

What is contemplative practice?

Contemplative practices are practical and transformative, developing the capacities for deep concentration and quieting the mind in the midst of the action and distraction that fills everyday life. Contemplative practices can help develop greater empathy and communication skills, improve focus and attention, reduce stress and enhance creativity, supporting a loving and compassionate approach to life. 

Are there regular meditation groups at Copper Beech Institute?

Yes. We offer free online meditation groups that meet M-F at 7:30am and T-F at 12:30pm. Sessions are 30 minutes in length and are hosted through Zoom. No experience is needed and all are welcome! Learn more here.

What programs do you recommend for beginners?

To view our programs designed specifically for beginners, filter the programs listed on the Upcoming Programs page by experience level.

If you are new to mindfulness and meditation, programs of particular interest include a day- or weekend-long Introduction to Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or the eight-week MBSR programs. If you are new to meditation and wish to try our one of our local meditation groups, our Introduction to Meditation program is a prerequisite.

Is Copper Beech Institute a religious organization?

No. Copper Beech Institute is a secular organization that welcomes all people to experience the transformative and healing dimensions of mindfulness practice regardless of their ethnic, racial, gender, or religious background. We recognize the important role both sacred and secular contemplative traditions play in creating a more compassionate sustainable world and therefore offer contemplative programs drawing from the wisdom of diverse traditions. 

What is the relationship between Copper Beech Institute and Holy Family Retreat Center?

Copper Beech Institute is located at 303 Tunxis Road, West Hartford, CT on the beautiful campus of Holy Family Passionist Monastery and Retreat Center, a Catholic monastery. When you arrive for a program, we will welcome you at Entrance 5, the Copper Beech main entrance. Because we are located within a large facility, there is considerable navigation and wayfinding required within the building. It is important to note that Copper Beech Institute is not religiously affiliated in any way and we welcome people from countless spiritual backgrounds along with people with no particular spiritual affiliation. Through a lease agreement with the monastery, in-person Copper Beech programming is held in spaces where Christian art and iconography is displayed. Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions.

What are the accommodations and food like, and what should I bring?

You’ll find answers to these questions on the Planning Your Visit page.

Are scholarships available?

Yes. We offer both scholarships and fellowships to our programs and retreats through the generosity of our donors and supporting foundations. Funds are limited and not every request can be granted.

What is the process for applying for a scholarship?

Please submit your scholarship or fellowship application before registering for the program you wish to attend, noting your retreat of interest on the application form. You will hear from us within four weeks of your application date. Once your scholarship or fellowship is granted, you will receive an email with instructions on registering for your program. You must reply to this email within 10 business days to either accept or deny your scholarship or fellowship. If you do not reply within 10 business days, the scholarship may be given to another applicant.

For more information, refer to the page for the scholarship or fellowship you are interested in. 

How do I enter a discount when registering for a program?

When registering online, enter the code provided to you in the discount code field. 

Can children and teens attend a retreat at Copper Beech?

Unless indicated in the program description, overnight guests and day workshops attendees at Copper Beech must be at least 18 years of age. Teens 16-17 may attend programs while accompanied by parents at all times. Children under the age of 16 may not attend a retreat at Copper Beech without approval from the program presenter and Copper Beech staff.

Who can I contact with a question?

You can direct any question to our office staff here.

What is your cancellation policy?

View the cancellation and refund policy here. 

What is your COVID-19 Policy for in-person programs?

View our policy and guidelines here. 

What is your harassment policy?

View our policy prohibiting harassment here. To file a complaint, please fill out this form.