What is the UPASIKA LIFE Project?

A monthly meditation and mindfulness retreat for women, inspired by the success of the Monk Life Project.

It offers spiritual practice, community, and healing in a forest sanctuary. Each participant will receive a temporary white uniform that reflects the values of simplicity and mindfulness, live by the Eight Precepts, and engage in a structured daily practice of meditation, Dhamma study, mindful eating, and personal reflection.

The Eight Precepts

Participants will be asked to observe the Eight Precepts during the retreat. These guidelines are not rules, but supports, allowing the heart and mind to quiet, soften, and awaken:

1. Refrain from killing — cultivate compassion for all beings.

2. Refrain from stealing — respect the property and space of others.

3. Refrain from sexual activity — preserve inner energy and focus.

4. Refrain from false speech — embrace noble silence and truthful expression.

5. Refrain from intoxicants — maintain clarity and presence.

6. Refrain from eating after midday — support simplicity and discipline.

7. Refrain from entertainment, adornment, or beautification — turn attention inward.

8. Refrain from luxurious sleeping arrangements — practice humility and contentment.

These precepts create a sacred container for healing, reflection, and deep spiritual insight.

To support stillness, presence, and inner clarity, the use of phone and other electronic devices will not be permitted during the retreat. Devices will be safely stored, and emergency contact will remain available through our staff. This pause from technology allows you to fully reconnect with yourself and the present moment. 

Program Details

Location: iRETREAT Chiang Mai

Accommodation: Private tented camp

Participants: 20 women maximum

Language: English

Program Highlights

• Daily Sati & Sabai meditation practice

• Dhamma classes & noble silence

• Mindful living and inner reflection

• Temporary white uniform set

• Sacred graduation ceremony

• Certificate & สไบแก้ว (Sabai Kaew)

Target Audience

• Women aged 18–65

• Wellness seekers & spiritual explorers

• Yoga teachers & mindfulness coaches

• No prior Buddhist experience required

Daily Rhythm

TimeActivity
05.00Wake up in peace
05.15-06.15Early Morning Meditation
06.15-07.00Yoga
07.00-08.00Breakfast
09.30-11.00Dhamma Talk/Meditation
11.00-11.45Daily chores
12.00-13.00Lunch
14.30-16.00Afternoon Meditation
BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY
16.00-17.00Group Activities / Workshops
17.00-18.00Refreshment (Pana)
18.30-19.00Evening Chanting (Optional)
19.00-20.30Dhamma Talk/Meditation
21.00Lights out (Sleep in peace)

What’s Included

• Accommodation at iRETREAT Chiang Mai

• 2 meals daily & pana (8 precepts)

• Meditation & study materials

• Graduation gift set (Certificate & Sabai Kaew)

Programmes 2025

ProgrammesDates
UPASIKA Life Thailand 1July 5 – 12 2025
UPASIKA Life Thailand 2August 2 – 9 2025
UPASIKA Life Thailand 3September 6 – 13 2025
UPASIKA Life Thailand 4October 4 – 11 2025
UPASIKA Life Thailand 5November 8 – 15 2025
UPASIKA Life Thailand 6December 20 – 28 2025
UPASIKA Life Thailand 7January 3 – 10 2026
UPASIKA Life Thailand 8February 7 – 14 2026

Ready to take the next step?

Feel free to message us anytime via WhatsApp:

(+66) 082 871 5154

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