"While all beings have great wisdom and compassion, this is not always apparent. This is simply because they have not recognized what they already have. Thus, aside from merely recognizing our own true nature, there isn't the slightest thing to meditate on. Recognizing the importance of this, I have passed my days feeling joyful and content, wandering through the mountains and valleys and staying here and there. From my heart, I sincerely encourage all of you to practice diligently in this manner as well."
— Mingyur Rinpoche, while on retreat
About the Retreat Course
Dedicated periods of practice in retreat have been a central part of the Buddhist tradition from the time of the historical Buddha. Retreat gives us the time and space to explore our experience and discover aspects of our own being that are difficult to connect with in everyday life. Retreat is not without its challenges, but those who make time for this transformative practice often find it an indispensable support on the path of awakening.
Why should I attend?
In this course we learn about the practice of retreat from both historical and contemporary Buddhist teachers. In addition to teachings from Mingyur Rinpoche, the course will feature readings, webinars, live practice sessions, and recorded interviews with important teachers, including Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo and Matthieu Ricard. There is also an extensive array of readings and other resources for those who want to learn more about retreat and/or deepen their practice.
In this course, you will learn about
- the importance of retreat
- the role of retreat in the Buddhist tradition
- the unique benefits of retreat compared to daily practice
- the benefits of solitary vs group retreat
- how to set up a conducive space for retreat
- how to work with physical challenges like pain or sleepiness in retreat
- practical tips for starting and ending retreat
this course includes:
recorded audio and video teachings from Mingyur Rinpoche
live practice sessions and webinars
audio recordings from Tergar Guides
optional individual practice interviews
Course curriculum
Module 1: The Benefits of Retreat
Starts March 15, 2024
In this first month of our retreat course, we will explore the benefits of doing retreat. We will learn different ways we can approach retreat, hearing from Mingyur Rinpoche and other meditators who have benefitted from intensive periods of practice. Hearing from contemporary practitioners and important historical figures will provide a unique perspective on the practice of retreat and the role it plays on the path of awakening.
Module 2: How to Practice in Retreat
Starts April 15, 2024
In the second module of this course we will focus on the actual practice of retreat. Mingyur Rinpoche will share his advice and tips he received from his own teachers on the important points of creating a balanced and inspired retreat. When we know how to structure a retreat, what expectations to have, and what the rewards and challenges are, we set ourselves up for successfully integrating retreat practice into our lives in a meaningful way. This helps us in a way that will continue to deepen and inspire our practice for the rest of our lives.
Module 3: The Challenges of Retreat
Starts May 15, 2024
In the last module of this course, we will take a closer look at the challenges we may face in retreat and learn how to deal with them. Mingyur Rinpoche shares his own experiences in retreat and the advice he received from his own teachers. By sitting with our challenges in retreat and experiencing them fully, we come to see that we do not need to escape them. All we need to do is look closely at the nature of what we experience and find the open space of awareness that is always present.
Subscribe to Vajrayana Online
All of our courses are available on demand and included in your subscription. You can join the course at any time and engage with the materials at your own pace. For more questions about the subscription, please visit our FAQs section.
You will make the first payment after the free trial period. The subscription will automatically be renewed in accordance to the frequency you have selected. You can unsubscribe anytime, and no additional fees will be charged.
For more questions about the subscription, please visit our FAQs section.
Tergar is committed to making the benefits of Buddhist teachings and practices available to everyone.
If the subscription rate of $25 USD per month is a hindrance for you financially,
please do not hesitate to reach out to us via [email protected] to ask for a further reduced rate.
We offer financial assistance rates for certain countries, for students with limited budgets,
and for the monastic community.
You will make the first payment after the free trial period. The subscription will automatically be renewed in accordance to the frequency you have selected. You can unsubscribe anytime, and no additional fees will be charged.
For more questions about the subscription, please visit our FAQs section.
Tergar is committed to making the benefits of Buddhist teachings and practices available to everyone.
If the subscription rate of $25 USD per month is a hindrance for you financially,
please do not hesitate to reach out to us via [email protected] to ask for a further reduced rate.
We offer financial assistance rates for certain countries, for students with limited budgets,
and for the monastic community.