Big Heart Retreats
Awaken the Boundless Within
At the heart of Zen practice is awakening—to open fully to reality. Awakening is both a profound shift and turning toward compassion and wisdom. An awakened heart is expressed as Big Heart—the vast, all-embracing compassion of Kanzeon, the bodhisattva who hears the cries of the world.
Big Heart Retreats are an opportunity to step into this awakening, to cultivate deep presence, and to embody wisdom and compassion in daily life.
Led by Genpo Roshi, these immersive, in-person retreats provide a rare chance to engage in the Big Mind process, an innovative and accessible way to explore consciousness, break through limiting perspectives, and realize the oneness of all life. For many, these retreats have proven to be among the most extraordinary and transformative experiences of their lives—offering insights and breakthroughs beyond expectation.
A Retreat with Purpose
More than just a personal retreat, Big Heart Retreats serve as a vital way to generate essential funds to sustain and expand the mission of Kanzeon Big Mind Zen:
"Our mission is to fuse the ancient Eastern wisdom of Zen with a modern understanding of Western psychology, igniting personal transformation while assisting the awakening of the world consciousness to the oneness of life."
This tradition evolved from the renowned ‘5-5-50’ retreats, in which five participants spent five days with Roshi, receiving five hours of direct teaching daily in exchange for a $50,000 Dana (donation). Today, Big Heart Retreats continue this legacy, offering the same depth of practice while making this rare opportunity accessible to a select group.
What to Expect
Held in person at select locations, Big Heart Retreats are intentionally limited to a maximum of seven participants—ensuring an intimate and deeply immersive experience. Participants are welcome to bring a spouse or partner who will not be participating in the retreat, but may wish to enjoy the local attractions. Meals will be available to spouses and partners for a nominal donation.
Each day, participants will spend five hours working directly with Genpo Roshi. Being physically close to one’s teacher deepens connection and allows for a direct transmission beyond words and letters. True intimacy arises when we relinquish our need to control, understand, and label, and instead embrace the unknown and the present.
All meals are included, providing a simple yet nourishing environment for deep practice. Accommodations are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, with options for those who prefer to arrange their own lodging.
Participants often express that by lunchtime on the first day, they have already received more than the value of their donation—a testament to the depth and power of this retreat.
Join Us
Whether you are beginning your journey or have been practicing for years, the Big Heart Retreats offer a powerful space for awakening, insight, and transformation.
Contact Chet Cannon for more information
What People Are Saying About Big Heart Retreats
Julia V., Attorney at Law, The Netherlands: "The most powerful moment for me was when Roshi guided me to shift from anger to its opposite in just a split second—suddenly the anger was gone. This opened my eyes to the possibility of real change: to listen wholeheartedly, to step fully into another’s perspective, and to take responsibility. The retreat was heartwarming, spacious, and transformative—a true adventure that was both profound and fun.” |
Paul J., Buddhist Practitioner and Scholar, United States: "A powerful experience of radical honesty and self-disclosure from both Roshi and the Sangha. It confirmed my own path of teaching with openness and vulnerability, helping me and others move deeper into self-acceptance. Something remarkable happens when you simply show up, question without judgment, and allow the process to unfold.” Nina N., Actress, Sweden: |
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Dan L., Psychologist, Sweden: "Genpo Roshi was unforgettable—on fire, intense, and profoundly moving. His energy drew me in completely, leaving me inspired and deeply connected." |
"A magical experience—joyful, inspiring, and crystal clear. His presence was electrifying, blending wisdom, humor, and performance into an unforgettable experience that touched my heart and filled me with energy, love, and understanding.” |
Paul M., Business consultant, The Netherlands:
"An Incredibly powerful event and filled with energy—both mind-blowing and grounding in life. I realized emotions are not obstacles but places to explore, even anger or anxiety carry hidden wisdom. My takeaway: if stuck, be completely stuck. This retreat is unlike anything else—an adventure with your self, supported by the group and guided by Genpo Roshi. Mind-expanding, deeply grounding, and surprisingly simple.”
Birgitte G, Denmark, Psychotherapist & Yoga Teacher:
Following Roshi on his European tour was groundbreaking. He truly embodies the hazy moon, transcending light and dark, sanity and madness. I witnessed him teach with full force—whether seated, napping, or walking. The mornings spent in Zazen with him were most powerful, as he embodied a state of being both alive and dead. His sharing of a lifetime of practice, from breakthroughs to breakdowns, was profoundly touching. Roshi teaches with rawness and humanity that resonate deeply. The entire month was a strong pull to let go of everything I thought I knew about Zen, the world, and myself. How wonderful!
Upcoming events
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