Retreats with Kerith
a half-day retreat in DTLA
A Dwelling Place Within: Attunement and the Practice of Inner Listening
This retreat explores attunement as a contemplative practice—learning to listen for what is already stirring within and gently lifting awareness toward presence. Through guided meditation, gentle embodied practice, chanting, silence, walking meditation, and mindful eating, we’ll spend the day cultivating inner listening as a way of making space for what is most alive and essential.
The day is designed to be accessible, spacious, and grounding, whether you are new to meditation or have been practicing for many years.
A simple vegetarian lunch is included, with vegan and gluten-free options available.
Space is intentionally limited to 40 participants to preserve an intimate and well-held container.
Sunday, February 22
10 AM-2:30 PM
Der Nister Downtown Jewish Center, 639 South Spring Street, Los Angeles
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10:00–10:20 Arrival & Settling
10:20–10:50 Teaching & Text
10:50–11:10 Chanting as Attunement
11:10–11:50 Seated Meditation
11:50–12:30 Embodied Practice
12:30–1:15 Mindful Eating (Lunch)
1:15–1:45 Walking Meditation
1:45–2:05 Seated Meditation & Closing
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Is this retreat appropriate if I’m new to meditation or chanting?
Yes. This retreat is designed to be accessible and invitational, whether you are new to contemplative practice or have been practicing for years. All practices are guided, and there is no expectation of prior experience.
What kind of chanting will we do? Do I need to be comfortable singing?
Chanting will be offered as a meditative practice, not a performance. The chants are simple, repetitive, and accessible, and you are always welcome to listen rather than sing. Participation is by invitation, not obligation.
What is the overall tone of the retreat?
The retreat will be held in a quiet, supportive, contemplative container. There will be periods of silence, gentle guidance, and spacious pacing throughout the day. This is not a lecture or a high-energy workshop.
What should I bring?
A meditation cushion or chair support (if you use one)
Layers for comfort
A water bottle
Chairs will be available, and all movement practices will be gentle and optional.
What kind of movement or yoga will be included?
The movement portion will be gentle, accessible, and contemplative, with an emphasis on listening to the body rather than achieving specific postures. No prior yoga experience is required, and modifications will be offered.
What is included for lunch?
A simple vegetarian boxed lunch is included. Vegan and gluten-free options are available and can be selected at registration. Lunch will be eaten mindfully as part of the practice.
Where will the retreat take place?
The retreat will be held at Der Nister in Downtown Los Angeles. Exact entry details and arrival instructions will be shared with registered participants prior to the retreat.
Is there parking available?
Parking information and suggestions will be included in the confirmation email sent to registered participants.
What is the sliding-scale pricing, and how should I choose a level?
Pricing is offered on a sliding scale ($72 / $90 / $118) to support both accessibility and the sustainability of this work. Please choose the level that best reflects your circumstances. All participants receive the same experience regardless of the level chosen.
What is your cancellation policy?
Because space is limited and lunch is ordered in advance, refunds are not guaranteed. If you need to cancel, please contact me as soon as possible, and I will do my best to accommodate your situation.
Will this retreat connect to ongoing practice?
Yes. This retreat is designed as a standalone experience, and also as a possible entry point into ongoing contemplative practice.
I still have a question—how can I reach you?
You’re welcome to email me directly at cantorkshapiro@mac.com with any questions not answered here.
watch here for upcoming retreat dates
Freedom is an Open Heart 2025
Mindful Practice & Jewish Wisdom for Challenging Times
Our week together was a rich mix of sitting and walking meditation, study, instruction, prayer, and song as well as daily yoga. Kerith is a longtime meditator, and certified Jewish Mindfulness Meditation teacher with years of experience working with people on their inner lives. The beautiful meditation hall where we spent most of our time was just a stone's throw from the ocean. The soothing sound of the surf was our constant companion. The retreat was mostly silent Saturday evening through Wednesday evening, allowing time for excursion and/or R&R on Thursday and Friday with a Shabbat celebration Friday evening. The schedule was simple - sitting or walking meditation interspersed with learning and instructions with time to "just be" and enjoy the beauty of Mar de Jade.
I am currently dreaming and planning the next retreat offerings. New dates and details will be shared here as soon as they are ready.
If you are interested in joining a future retreat, or if you’d like to share what kind of experience you’re seeking — whether it’s the length, setting, teachings, or rhythm — I would truly love to hear from you.
Your hopes, needs, and questions are welcome.
