America Nepal Paramparagat Buddha Dharma Sangha is organizing a very special two-day meditation retreat on 22 and 23 July, led by Master Lama Tenzin Sherpa in Washington DC, USA.
While meditative retreats are often longer, the Sangha believes that this short two-day retreat will provide participants with a useful and meaningful experience.
Meditation and Lama Tenzin Sherpa
Meditation has always been the cornerstone of Buddhist practice. Since the enlightenment of the Buddha, techniques have been passed on from master to student in an unbroken chain for over 2,500 years. These techniques are essential for all who have spiritual aspirations, but also beneficial for all those dealing with the stress and pressures of the modern world.
Lama Tenzin Sherpa has directed numerous retreats and taught Dharma on three continents, including 35 out of 50 states in the United States. He acquired years of formal Buddhist studies, starting at the age of 13. Throughout his monastic life he received countless philosophical teachings, oral transmissions, empowerments and initiations from many great Lamas.
He also attended Namdroling Monastery, which is the scholastic seat of the Payul lineage located in southern India. Apart from his extensive knowledge of the Vajrayana tradition, he is also well versed in the history and philosophy of the Mahayana and Theravada schools. His knowledge includes the title of Reiki Master, and he teaches Usui Reiki cure throughout the world. His strong monastic background, practical experience and knowledge of people is a great asset, and will provide an amazing opportunity for those who choose to participate in this upcoming retreat.
Lama Tenzin will lead participants through the practices of Shamatha and Vipassana. Sonata, which means “peaceful or quiet dwelling” is the first step in the stabilization of the mind using an anchor as an object, or breathing as a focal point. During this retreat, the breath will provide the anchor which will allow participants to experience the mind as it is, and thoughts as they are.
Once there is some level of stable awareness, participants will be guided through the Vipassana or “insight meditation,” helping them to investigate the very nature of their thoughts, and eventually the nature of mind itself. These techniques taught by Buddha are fundamental practices. They have helped people find the mechanism for dealing with the pressures of the modern world, offer Buddhist practitioners a direct connection to an essential part of Buddhist tradition, and most importantly, the possibility of recognizing the Buddha nature that exists within all of us.
We all need a respite from our hectic and busy lives.
