march 2025
dear friends,
as winter softens into spring, i find myself reflecting on the connections that make these practices meaningful. i'm grateful for each of you and the warmth you bring to my life.
february reflections
highlights
- wrote an article for Global Tea Hut, reflecting on my zen & tea retreat from last september
- attended a 5-day retreat at Common Ground's retreat center, which i really enjoyed and will likely start practicing more consistently with the CG sangha
- saw Hadestown with Hallie from second row seats – an incredible theatre experience
recent reading
- A Provisional Manual of West Coast Tantrik Psychedelic Druidry (5) – this book touched my heart, softening me into a new way of life in harmony with the divine, nature, psychedelics, poisons and awakening. i'm sad it's over so soon
- The Book of Tea (3) – some excellent passages, beautiful prose, and a unique perspective on tea ceremony through art appreciation and lived beauty
- Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (4) – frenetic, chaotic, shocking. such a wild ride.
- currently: The Mind Illuminated – seems quite promising so far
big gratitude to:
- Lobar for bringing a great group together and always showing love through hella good snack spreads.
- Kylo for the depth of connection and sharing about his journey that opened unexpected doorways in my own practice.
- Aaron for the invitation to Satsang and a relaxed authenticity that feels so easy to be around.
upcoming gatherings
i'll be away on silent retreat march 14-21st and in Milwaukee march 28-31st.
yin & tea
wednesdays, march 5th, 12th, 26th (9:00 - 10:30am)
an hour of gentle yoga taught by Louisa, followed by tea and group reflection
Louisa's home | sliding scale $10-25
tea ceremony hike
sunday, march 2nd (12:30pm - 4:00pm)
a mindful hike with tea in nature at Pike Island
my home → carpool | gathering freely
half-day sesshin & tea ceremony
saturday, march 8th (10am - 2pm)
3 periods of zazen followed by a light lunch and tea ceremony
my home | donations welcome
to join any events, simply reply to this email. i'd also love to hear any of your own updates or resonance with anything shared
in gratitude,
nicho