Buddhist Studies Institute

Annual Dzogchen Retreat
Online or In-Person in San Diego, CA

Online and In-Person

August 15 – 17, 2024
10am – 6pm PT

In-Person Only

August 18, 2024

Tsok and Community Day at the Beach

Join Lama and Dzogchen scholar, Pema Khandro, in this three day immersion in Longchenpa’s instructions for holding on to the nature of mind.

A time to contemplate expansive peace and innermost presence, this retreat will focus on cultivating deep rest through advanced relaxation practice and study of Dzogchen teachings and meditation. This is an opportunity to connect with the beautiful poetry of esoteric Buddhism at its best through vantage point of Longchenpa, the great fourteenth century Dzogchen master.

This is meditation in its esoteric form taught in the Tibetan tradition as a method to find the uncontrived state of natural innate wisdom. Pema Khandro will teach from the 27 Practices for training for Dzogchen meditation from the sems nyid ngal gso, Longchenpa’s instructions from The Trilogy of Finding Comfort and Ease.

The retreat will focus on instructions that lay out the path from its foundations to the experience of deep contemplative awareness and experience beyond grasping. It includes guidance on the stages of meditation and the ways to unravel and find rest in the nature of mind. This is a path of encountering innate wisdom through letting go in its sweetest sense, the letting go of effort and tension to rediscover an uncontrived presence.

This retreat can be attended online OR you can register for the in-person option which will take place at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of San Dieguito, 1036 Solana Drive, Solana Beach CA 92075. Please note the event is not sponsored by UUFSD. Please visit the registration page linked below for complete details including cost, registration deadlines, and complete information about lodging, meals, and more!

Ngondro Module 4: Intrinsic Wisdom

Module 4 Begins September 9- October 28

Mondays – Online
5-6:30pm PT | 8-9:30pm ET | 10am-11:30am AEST

Build your life on a solid foundation.

Ngondro presents the core practices of Buddhist psychology, working with core needs in identity, relationality, forgiveness and repair, resources and the sense of empowerment. Join Pema Khandro and the Buddhist Studies Institute for a journey into Ngondro, the core practice of Buddhist tantra.

Module 4: Intrinsic Wisdom. This module focuses on the key theme of Vajrayana, which is empowerment, to experience the power of the indestructible buddhanature within oneself. It begins with Vajrayogini meditation and the seven line prayer, a prayer used widely in the Nyingma tradition to supplicate the awakened mind. This is followed by the guru yoga meditation and merging into Buddhahood.

A Journey to Bhutan

In the Footsteps of Longchenpa

Pilgrimage to Longchenpa’s Eight Lings in the Himalayan Mountain Kingdom of Bhutan

With Dr. Pema Khandro & Jampa MacKenzie Stewart

October 2 – 18, 2024

Join us for a transformative pilgrimage through Bhutan from October 2nd to 18th, 2024, led by scholar-practitioner Dr. Pema Khandro and Buddhist author Jampa Mackenzie Stewart. This spiritual journey to the Himalayas offers an intimate exploration of the sacred sites and teachings of Dzogchen master Longchenpa. Experience the profound beauty of Bhutan’s landscapes, sacred sites, and its rich Vajrayana Buddhist culture.

Our meticulously crafted itinerary is designed to cater to all levels of physical fitness and interests, ensuring a fulfilling experience for everyone. From daily teachings and meditation sessions to interactions with local lamas and yogis, every aspect is thoughtfully planned to deepen your understanding of the Buddhist view.

This unique pilgrimage is not just a trip but a deep dive into the teachings of a great master. It offers insights into the essence of practice against the backdrop of Bhutan’s breathtaking beauty. Reserve your spot now, as space is limited.

Be Kind to Yourself

Pema Khandro for Lion’s Roar

You have enlightened nature, says Pema Khandro Rinpoche. If you truly know that, you’ll always be kind to yourself. Read the full article below.

Are you interested in helping us spread the dharma?

The Buddhist Studies Institute is actively seeking a Manager to be available for 5-10 hours a week. This is a volunteer position.

Manager Responsibilities Include:

• Create clear project plans and goals.

• Establish a work plan at each stage of the project, and allocate resources accordingly.

• Create and manage project budgets.

• Review project plan to determine time frames

• Remind team members of deadlines and keep team members on deadlines

• Identify and remove any obstacles that might hinder the team’s ability to meet deadlines.

• Effectively communicate project-relevant details throughout the organization.

• Facilitate project-related team meetings.

• Share project reports with governance committee

• Collaborate on the Organization’s plans and priority

• Design and launch evaluation surveys among team and community members.

• Be the main point of contact for projects.

For more information, please email volunteer@buddhiststudiesinstitute.org or simply click the box below.

2024 Schedule of Events

ONGOING MONTHLY TRAINING

Daily Meditation Online
Vajrayana Training – 1st & 2nd Wednesday of each month
Ngakpa Training – 3rd Wednesday of each month

AUGUST
Dzogchen Retreat – August 15 – August 18

SEPTEMBER
Ngondro Module 4 – September 9 – October 28

OCTOBER
A Journey to Bhutan – October 2 – October 18

*All Times are noted in Pacific Time (PT) – Check your Timezone