Hold Nothing:
A Retreat to Create Space
November 9-13, 2025
ChoZen Retreat Center
Sebastian, FL
About the retreat
As autumn invites us to turn inward, this retreat offers a space to slow down and make space—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Through the grounding practices of tea ceremony, meditation, yoga, and dharma teachings, we’ll explore what it means to let go, realign with our values, and return to what truly matters.
We’ll also share initial glimpses into Hold Nothing, Elena’s forthcoming book from Shambhala, releasing November 18th. Rooted in Taoist and Zen teachings, this retreat is a pause for reflection, presence, and meaningful connection.
Join us for a sacred autumn retreat to release what no longer serves, align with your deepest values, and make space for inspiration.
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
- 4 nights' accommodation
- Twice daily formal tea ceremony
- Daily meditation
- Daily asana practice
- Dharma talks led by Elena Brower & Colin Hudon
- Earth-to-Table Meals prepared by the ChoZen culinary team
- A Living Tea wellness bundle specially curated for retreatants
- Time to explore the extraordinary beauty of the St. Sebastian River
- Connection with like-minded humans that will become lifelong friends
"This was one of the best retreats I've ever been to. It was a deeply nourishing retreat, where I was able to disconnect from my phone and just be present, and I learned so much that I've incorporated into my life. I would say without hesitation, go for it."
"This retreat is a sanctuary for both collective and personal healing. It provides a space where one can absorb nature's wisdom while being embraced by a heartfelt community."
"It is a liberating experience, allowing one to rethink what in our lives feels genuine. It is an exceptional opportunity to meet terrific people who are ready to be open and vulnerable, and who are great company to be rethinking together, even if in silence."
Discover the Accommodations
Nestled in nature, accommodations at ChoZen provide a sanctuary for rest and renewal. Communal living spaces foster a sense of connection and shared experience, while still offering moments of quiet reflection. Grounded in simplicity and sustainability, each space invites you to unwind and fully immerse in the rhythms of retreat life.
RETREAT PRICING
(COST IS PER PERSON)
* Single Room with Shared Bathroom: $3,400
* Shared Room with Private Bathroom: $3,200 (maximum 2 people per room)
* Shared Room with Shared Bathroom: $3,000
Meet Your Guide
Colin Hudon, owner and founder of Living Tea, is an herbalist, acupuncturist, and practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Through his lifelong immersion in Tea and Tao, he founded Living Tea to share the depth of Eastern traditions through the transformative power of the Way of Tea.
Colin's extensive study and travel throughout Asia inform a depth of teaching and facilitation that brings the wisdom of ancient traditions to life.
Meet Your Guide
Mother, mentor, poet, artist, volunteer, bestselling author and host of the Practice You Podcast, Elena Brower graduated Cornell University in 1992, designed textiles and apparel for almost a decade before shifting her focus to yoga, meditation, writing and art. Teaching asana since 1999, studying and practicing Zen meditation since 2020, she received the Buddhist Precepts from Roshi Joan Halifax at Upaya Zen Center in 2023. Now a candidate for Buddhist Chaplaincy, Elena offers her time in hospice and penitentiary settings. Her bestselling journals and books explore stages of life and listening. Her next book, Hold Nothing, will be published November 18th by Shambhala Publications.
About the Retreat
Logistics
- Dates: Sunday, November 9 (retreat check-in 3pm-4pm) through Thursday, November 13 (checkout 11am).
- Location: ChoZen Retreat Center, Sebastian, FL
- Food: All daily meals provided
What's Not Included
- Airfare and Transportation to ChoZen
- Individual Activities during free time
- 1-1 Sessions with the Guides
- Spa Treatments
Sample Daily Schedule
7am-1pm: Meditation, tea ceremony, breakfast, journal prompts, discussions/ talks
1pm-3pm: Lunch break and free time
3-8pm: Yoga asana practice, tea ceremony, dinner, and evening talk
Accommodations
Nestled in nature, the accommodations at ChoZen provide a peaceful sanctuary for rest and renewal. Shared rooms and a few single, private rooms are available. Bathrooms are shared. This shared living space encourages a sense of community among guests, fostering connections and shared experiences.
Getting to ChoZen
ChoZen is located on Florida’s East Central Coast just 75 miles from Orlando International Airport, 90 miles from Palm Beach International and 180 miles from Miami International Airport.
More details about airport transfers and specifics for those driving will be shared in the weeks leading up to the retreat.
Payment & Cancellation Policy
Need a Payment Plan? If you'd like to explore a payment plan option, please reach out to us directly at info@livingtea.net
Cancellation Policy
- A $500 cancellation fee will be applied. Any remaining balance paid will be refunded.
- All monies paid will be forfeited.
This policy is firm and in place to honor the commitments made to the retreat center and guides. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment in the event of unexpected changes.
