[claylimo]

I have done a number of solo retreats. Many solo 10-day retreats, and a month long retreat usually in my apartment or place that I was living at the time. I would speak to my teacher on the phone typically every other day, or everyday for 10-45mins depending on what was happening. I didn't immediately jump into the longer retreats. I built up to it. Initially doing 1 day solo retreats, then 3-days, then doing many 10-days then a month long.

So, why can't you just do it? A solo retreat is not for everyone. People often need help or support to meet them where they are. Different personalities have different needs. A retreat can also be quite destabilizing and having someone to help in person to navigate the emotional territory or insights is valuable. Now, let's say that you think you can do it. In my opinion, you absolutely need a teacher for a longer retreat but for a shorter retreat (1 day, or _maybe_ 3-day) it is not entirely necessary. You end being your own worst enemy on a retreat. A friend of mine was doing practice for 10-12 hours a day without a teacher for 6 weeks and only eating a little bit of bread everyday. This is a bad idea. The mind plays some amazing tricks on you. So, if a solo attempt is done please have a teacher and have a lot of vital context around what you are doing otherwise you will practice wrongly.