The rule of not eating after noon is a monastic rule that goes back to the time of the Buddha and is observed most commonly by Theravada monks and nuns. We find that because a meditation retreat isn’t physically rigorous, most people can get by with two high-quality meals a day. Not eating late in the day tends to make people less drowsy. It also frees up more time for practice. If you have a medical reason for eating after midday, we can make an exception for you.