The Tibetan word for retreat is ‘tsam’, which means ‘stop’ or ‘make a break’. This indicates we must stop, or make a break from, our normal activities and concentrate on a particular spiritual practice. The most important thing to stop during retreat is our distractions—to stop our busy mind.
At Kadampa Meditation Center, we offer a variety of retreats to give the practitioner an opportunity to ‘take a break’ from normal activities and a distracted mind.
These retreats are offered throughout the year at the center and provide an opportunity to gain retreat experience in a quiet, peaceful environment. We offer meditation retreats that range from half-day retreats on Saturdays, to full weekends, to away retreats during which we stay at a retreat center in the mountains. These relaxing and profound retreats help us create the space to more deeply contemplate and meditate on specific teachings.
Preliminary Guide Retreats are held every year at the center. They are usually a week in length, four sessions a day, and allow people to gain deeper experience of a particular practice. They are an integral part of the Teacher Training Program (TTP), but are also open to everyone. You may attend any number of sessions. Preliminary Guide Retreats include the following:
@International Kadampa Retreat Center Grand Canyon & Online
July 1 — July 21
You are invited to join Kadam Lucy for a 3-week summer meditation retreat at the IKRC Grand Canyon. During this retreat, Kadam Lucy will guide meditations and give teachings on the unmistaken Dharma of Lamrim, Lojong and Mahamudra.
Saturday, July 9
Join in the fun as we work together to spread the word about the classes and events offered at the Center. Spend an hour or so out in the local area, posting flyers and postcards with information about what the Center offers. We will start together at 10:30, set our intention and then go out in pairs or small groups to flyer. We’ll end the day at a pre-determined space (i.e. restaurant) to “refresh” and relax.
Saturday, July 16
We are offering a one-hour course on mantra and an afternoon workshop making malas. You will walk away with a precious object and an understanding of how to use the power of mantras in your daily life. You are welcome to attend either or both sessions! All materials will be provided.
Saturday, August 20th
You are warmly invited to an Open House at Kadampa Meditation Center Colorado. Stop by to meet the teachers and community, tour the meditation shrine, enjoy refreshments and snacks, and participate in a free guided meditation. You may also browse our bookstore, see beautiful Buddhist art, and ask questions about meditation and modern Buddhism. Everyone welcome!