[header] How to prepare for your first weekend long buddhist meditation retreat [title] Advise the centre about your needs when you book. [step] Retreat centres are obliged to make sure of your mental condition and physical fitness is sufficient to ensure they can adequately cater for your needs. For weekend retreats some centres may or may not ask for a referral from your doctor if you are suffering from a physical or mental illness. 
[substeps] Generally, most meditation retreat centres are vegetarian, but some aren't. It's best to check in advance.