Meditation retreat

Toronto

If shovelling snow isn't as relaxing as you'd hoped, learning the ins and outs of Zen Buddhist meditation may help you chant your way through winter. This Sunday, a course led by Hazel Da Breo -- a psychotherapist and meditation instructor -- will combine the traditional techniques of Zen Buddhist meditation with breath work, hatha yoga and chanting to reduce tensions, anxieties and emotional injury. The five-hour retreat also includes a gentle session in self-defence taught by Jerome Cabanatan, a high-performance martial artist. Participants should wear loose clothing and bring a light lunch and small cushion.

Cost: $75 a person.

When: Sunday, Jan. 30, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: The Centre, 316 Dupont St.

How: E-mail hazel@hazeldabreo.com or visit hazeldabreo.com.

Telemark skiing clinics

Throughout Ontario

In an era when it's considered old-school to favour straight skis over the newer parabolic designs, devotees of telemarking might seem downright quaint. But telemark skiing, with its cross-country-like equipment and kneeling turns, has been kept alive by off-piste skiers who say it's the best way to tackle the backcountry. This winter, Ski Telemark is offering weekend clinics for the curious all over Ontario. The one-hour courses take place at private ski clubs, but non-members are welcome to attend if they register a week in advance. It's perfect for the person who wants to be a little different.

Cost: $35 including equipment.

When: Until mid-March.

Where: Various ski clubs.

How: Call 905-797-1074 or visit members.rogers.com/skitelemark.

Gourmet stargazing

Huntsville, Ont.

Stargazing is often associated with summer camping trips, but the clearest skies are often found on the cold, silent nights of winter. From now until May, the new Muskoka Mist B & B is inviting weekend guests to sign up for a "Gaze at the Stars" package that features sky interpretation on Saturday nights with Muskoka-based astronomer Seth Verzyden and his telescope, followed by a gourmet dinner inside. When you're not peering into the infinite, you can use the B & B as a base while skiing at nearby Hidden Valley or hitting the snowmobiling trails.

Cost: From $320 a couple for the weekend.

When: Weekends until May.

Where: Huntsville, about two hours north of Toronto by car.

How: Call 705-788-7771 or visit http://www.muskokamist.com.

weekends@globeandmail.ca