Magdalena Waz

@ThrowBigWords

Beaches evoke a very specific set of memories in most people: strong sunshine, crashing waves, and sandy feet. But they are also places of introspection for some, and Rockaway Summer House, a not-for-profit retreat center and art organization, is all about giving New Yorkers a place to enjoy that serene atmosphere.

The all-volunteer organization launched in December of 2016, and since then they have used their house to host no-cost art classes, urban farming workshops, and sustainability classes covering everything from making your own infused waters to getting started on the path to a zero waste life. 

Donation-based meditation classes on Mondays at 8 p.m. and yoga classes on Wednesday at 8 p.m. fill out the schedule of dinners and weekend-long retreats.

This weekend’s retreat is called “Surf, Yoga, and Mediation.” From Friday, August 4 to Sunday, August 6, participants will be able to “experience the body and mind in a thoroughly refreshing way” presumably through a semi-silent retreat that forces one to focus inward instead of outward.

Organizers include Bhante Suddhaso, a Buddhist monk; club98, an organization bringing together a network of surfers; Thembi Hanify; Helena Dunn; and Laura Nesci, a yoga teacher.

Pre-registration is required, and staying at the house for the entirety of the weekend is optional. But the event is BYOB (Bring Your Own Board), so we assume actual surfing is involved. 

Register here, and check out the Rockaway Summer House at 504 Beach 68th St. 



Featured image courtesy of Rockaway Summer House.