Terms & Conditions

1. Acceptance of Terms

Welcome to Philippines Inner Peace Retreats. By accessing our website, booking our meditation programs, or participating in our mindfulness services, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions ("Terms"). These Terms constitute a sacred agreement between you ("Practitioner," "you," or "your") and Philippines Inner Peace Retreats ("Center," "we," "us," or "our").

If you do not agree with any part of these Terms, please do not use our services. We reserve the right to modify these Terms mindfully at any time, and your continued participation constitutes acceptance of such changes.

2. Service Descriptions

2.1 Mindfulness and Meditation Programs

Philippines Inner Peace Retreats offers authentic spiritual experiences including:

• Mindfulness foundations and breath awareness training
• Vipassana insight meditation retreats
• Zen meditation and contemplative practices
• Silent retreats and spiritual intensives
• Mindful living integration programs
• Urban mindfulness for modern practitioners
• Individual spiritual guidance and mentoring
• Group meditation sessions and dharma talks

2.2 Spiritual Practice Modifications

We reserve the right to modify meditation practices, retreat schedules, or teaching methods based on group dynamics, individual needs, weather conditions, teacher availability, or other circumstances that may arise. All modifications are made with careful consideration for participants' spiritual welfare and safety.

3. Booking and Registration

3.1 Registration Process

• All registrations must be made through our official website or authorized representatives
• Registration is confirmed upon receipt of deposit payment
• Full payment is required 14 days before program start date
• Confirmation details will be sent via email within 24 hours
• A completed health and meditation experience questionnaire is required

3.2 Practitioner Requirements

• Participants must be 16 years or older (younger practitioners require parental consent)
• Some advanced programs have specific meditation experience requirements
• Valid identification required for retreat registration
• Medical clearance may be required for intensive or extended programs
• Open mind and sincere interest in spiritual development

3.3 Group Retreats

Special arrangements and pricing apply to groups of 6 or more practitioners. Please contact our spiritual coordinators for customized group retreat packages and special terms.

4. Payment Terms

4.1 Pricing and Currency

• All prices are quoted in Philippine Peso (PHP) unless otherwise stated
• Prices include meditation instruction, accommodation, vegetarian meals, and specified services
• Personal expenses, additional treatments, and donations are not included
• Prices are subject to change without notice until registration is confirmed
• Scholarship and work-study options may be available for sincere practitioners

4.2 Payment Schedule

• Deposit: 40% due at time of registration
• Final Payment: 60% due 14 days before program start date
• Late Registrations: Full payment required for bookings made within 14 days
• Installment Plans: Available for longer retreats with advance arrangement

4.3 Accepted Payment Methods

We accept credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), bank transfers, and PayPal. All payments are processed securely. We also welcome donations and offerings in the spirit of dana (generosity practice).

5. Cancellation and Refund Policy

5.1 Practitioner Cancellations

• 45+ days before retreat: Full refund minus 10% processing fee
• 21-44 days before retreat: 75% refund
• 14-20 days before retreat: 50% refund
• 7-13 days before retreat: 25% refund
• Less than 7 days: No refund (except serious emergencies)

5.2 Emergency and Compassionate Cancellations

Cancellations due to serious illness, family emergencies, or other life crises may be eligible for special consideration. We approach each situation with compassion and may offer partial refunds, credit for future programs, or other arrangements based on individual circumstances.

5.3 Center Cancellations

If we cancel a retreat due to insufficient enrollment, teacher illness, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances, participants will receive a full refund or the option to transfer to another program of equal value.

5.4 Non-Attendance

Practitioners who fail to arrive without prior notice forfeit all payments. We encourage mindful communication if circumstances prevent attendance.

6. Health and Wellbeing

6.1 Physical and Mental Health Requirements

• Complete and honest health disclosure is required before participation
• Certain mental health conditions may require additional support or modified practices
• Pregnancy considerations apply to some intensive meditation practices
• We reserve the right to require medical clearance for certain conditions
• All medication and health condition information will be kept confidential

6.2 Meditation Practice Participation

Participation in meditation practices, mindfulness exercises, and spiritual activities is voluntary. You are encouraged to practice within your physical and emotional capacity. Please communicate openly with teachers about any difficulties or concerns that arise during practice.

6.3 Mental Health Support

• Trained meditation teachers provide spiritual guidance and support
• Private consultations available for personal practice issues
• Referrals to mental health professionals available if needed
• We maintain relationships with local healthcare providers

7. Practitioner Responsibilities and Conduct

7.1 Mindful Behavior Guidelines

Participants are expected to:

• Treat all beings with loving-kindness, compassion, and respect
• Maintain noble silence during designated periods
• Follow retreat schedules and participate fully in programs
• Respect the sacred nature of the meditation environment
• Practice honesty, integrity, and ethical conduct
• Maintain confidentiality regarding other practitioners' sharing

7.2 Prohibited Items and Activities

• Alcohol, drugs, or intoxicating substances
• Tobacco or smoking in retreat areas
• Electronic devices during meditation sessions (unless arranged)
• Sexual misconduct or inappropriate behavior
• Disturbance of others' practice through unnecessary noise or activity
• Photography or recording without explicit permission

7.3 Dismissal from Programs

We reserve the right to dismiss practitioners who violate these guidelines, engage in harmful behavior, or disrupt the spiritual environment. Dismissals are handled with compassion but firmness when necessary for the welfare of the community. No refund will be provided for dismissal due to misconduct.

8. Accommodation and Meals

8.1 Retreat Accommodations

• Accommodations range from shared dormitories to private rooms
• All accommodations support a simple, mindful lifestyle
• Room assignments are made thoughtfully based on individual needs and availability
• Special requests are considered but cannot be guaranteed
• Clean, comfortable environments conducive to meditation practice

8.2 Mindful Meals

• Vegetarian/vegan meals prepared with mindfulness and care
• Organic and locally-sourced ingredients when possible
• Meals eaten in noble silence or mindful conversation
• Special dietary requirements accommodated with advance notice
• Alcohol and stimulants not served during retreats

9. Liability and Spiritual Responsibility

9.1 Limitation of Liability

Philippines Inner Peace Retreats serves as a facilitator of spiritual practice and meditation instruction. We are not liable for:

• Spiritual, psychological, or emotional experiences arising from practice
• Personal insights, realizations, or transformations
• Physical discomfort or injury during meditation practice
• Loss or damage to personal property during retreats
• Travel delays, cancellations, or natural disasters
• Services provided by third-party accommodation or transport providers

9.2 Spiritual Practice Disclaimer

Meditation and mindfulness practices can bring about profound psychological and spiritual changes. While we provide guidance and support, each practitioner is ultimately responsible for their own spiritual journey and the integration of their experiences.

9.3 Insurance Recommendation

We strongly encourage all practitioners to maintain appropriate health insurance and consider travel insurance for retreat participation.

10. Intellectual Property and Teachings

10.1 Dharma and Teaching Content

The meditation instructions, dharma talks, and spiritual teachings shared during programs are part of ancient wisdom traditions. While the specific presentation and materials may be proprietary, the essential teachings belong to the universal spiritual heritage.

10.2 Practitioner Sharing

By participating in our programs, you may share your experiences publicly if you choose. We may use anonymized testimonials and feedback for promotional purposes with respect and gratitude.

11. Privacy and Confidentiality

Your privacy and the sacred nature of your spiritual journey are paramount. Our privacy practices are governed by our Privacy Policy. Personal sharing during retreats is held in strict confidence by all participants and teachers.

12. Force Majeure

We are not liable for delays, cancellations, or modifications due to circumstances beyond our control, including but not limited to:

• Natural disasters (typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic activity)
• Government actions, travel restrictions, or health emergencies
• Teacher illness or unavailability
• Facility emergencies or closures
• Transportation disruptions

13. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

These Terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of the Philippines. Any disputes shall be resolved through:

• First, mindful dialogue and compassionate communication
• Meditation on the conflict with a neutral teacher if needed
• If necessary, mediation in Taguig City, Philippines
• Philippines courts shall have jurisdiction for legal proceedings

14. Contact Information for Terms Inquiries

15. Acknowledgment and Sacred Agreement

By participating in our programs, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms with mindful consideration. You confirm that all information provided is truthful and that you approach your spiritual practice with sincere intention.

May your practice bring you deep peace, wisdom, and liberation from suffering. 🧘‍♂️🙏✨