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Brazil
While it’s a great cultural and religious experience, the work can be quite exhausting… And remaining in silence can be challenging. But there are things we need to experience in order to mature.
12 days ago
Germany
Staying with the Sunims at Buddha Forest was such a lovely experience. They were incredibly kind and welcoming, and we really appreciated how open they were to our questions. It was special to get a little insight into their way of life and spend time in such a peaceful place. We helped in the kitchen, on the farm, and with different organizational tasks. There was also plenty of free time to enjoy the mountains, listen to the birds, and simply slow down. We left with lovely memories and hope to continue learning about the Center the future. 🙏🏻
15 days ago
Germany
Our stay at Buddha Forest was a truly peaceful and meaningful experience. 🌿 The Sunims were warm and welcoming, and we enjoyed helping with different tasks around the center. Surrounded by beautiful nature, we had the chance to slow down, learn about Buddhist life, and disconnect from everyday routines. We're very grateful for this special experience and the wonderful hospitality! 🙏
15 days ago
Germany
Buddha Forest felt less like a place I visited and more like a place that quietly stayed with me. Between the mountains, the silence, the shared meals, and the simple rhythm of each day, I found myself becoming quieter inside. Life there moves slowly enough for you to notice what you usually rush past: the wind in the trees, the morning mist drifting between the mountains, the small gestures of kindness, and the peace that comes when you simply allow yourself to be present. I left deeply grateful—for the people, for the silence, and for the gentle way this place brought me back to myself.
about 1 month ago
Poland
This place became much more than a volunteering experience for me. Surrounded by nature, I had the opportunity to work, meditate and learn from Sunim. I arrived meditating for around 20 minutes, and after three months I was able to meditate up to four hours a day something I never expected. I also discovered that work can be medicine when done with presence and care. I'm leaving deeply grateful for this beautiful experience🙏🌿
about 2 months ago
Aleksandra is an impressive and truly remarkable person to work with. She is highly focused and organized in her work, and she quickly and effectively masters new techniques, practical skills, and tools.
What makes her especially remarkable is her deep inner maturity and strong ability to regulate herself. She consistently engages with the team and her surroundings with a calm, clear, and wise presence.
Working with her is not only efficient and reliable, but also brings a sense of positive
New Zealand
This was an incredible experience. I met so many amazing people from volunteers to Sunims. The food is absolutely amazing. They also looked after me like their own. When I had sore cramps or a sore tummy they made sure I was okay, gave me medicine and a hot water bottle ect. The experience itself with the mediation truly changed my perspective. It's given me valuable tools and changed my way of thinking. They put in a lot of effort to make sure you get out as much as they do too. I would highly recommend.
about 2 months ago
Canada
Great experience! The work can be physically demanding, but you have a lot of time for yourself and to meditate. The center itself is beautiful and the people are lovely. It's great for anyone to wants to improve their the Center, take time away from their busy lives and/or learn more about and practice Buddhism. I would definitely recommend others to try it.
about 2 months ago
United States
I stayed at Buddha Forrest for just about two weeks and wished I could have stayed for longer! The Sunim were all extremely welcoming, inviting you into their world, happy to engage with you and answer any questions or concerns you may have. I found the work balance to be perfect, leaving you ample time to engage with your surroundings and immerse yourself in buddhist tradition the Center. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay, and I could not recommend Buddha forrest enough. I hope to be back soon!
3 months ago
South Africa
My time at the Buddha Forest was rewarding and enriching - it will be an experience I remember and cherish. If I was able to extend my time there - I would certainly would have. The information provided to volunteers about the centre, about the way it works and the focus on noble silence the Center is clear. The Sunims are warm, patient and kind, and it was a rewarding experience working with them and being a part of what they are building on that special mountain. I hope to return to the Buddha Forest Temple, hopefully to develop and grow in the practice of the Center. Timothy
3 months ago
You are one of the most dedicated and wonderful volunteers we have had at our meditation center.
We are deeply grateful for all that you have done to help care for and maintain this place during your time with us. Your strength, wisdom, and wholehearted dedication to your work have been a great support to our community. We truly appreciate the sincerity and care you have brought to everything you have done here. I believe you have a wonderful future ahead of you
Australia
I'm so incredibly grateful for my time here. Learning the Center receiving all the advice and guidance has helped me in ways I never thought possible. I'll carry everything I've learned here with me for the rest of my life. The Sunims and Haengja Nim are such kind, genuine people, and being around them has been truly inspiring. They lead by example, and I'm so thankful for everything they've taught me. I can't wait to come back soon 🤍
3 months ago
