fbpx
Facebook-f Instagram Youtube
Vajrayana Institute Logo

Uncategorized

calm abiding retreat

by

calm abiding retreat

3 Day Immersive Retreat | 5 – 7 October 2024

About the Retreat

Meditative concentration, also known as calm-abiding, is a state of mind where all the disturbances due to dysfunctional reactions of body and mind are pacified and we find our attention abiding blissfully on whatever object of meditation we focus on.

Contrary to popular beliefs, great effort and willpower are not necessary to accomplish it. Rather, the skillful and wise application of our mindfulness, coupled with the attitude of kindness and letting go, transforms our usual effortful struggle in meditation to an effortless process of settling deeply into concentration.

In this retreat we will look into creating the different conditions that facilitate the settling down of our body and mind, freeing them from the unnecessary tensions and agitation that disturb our peace and wellbeing.

Through applying simple techniques in our meditation practice we can readily enhance the release of physical tensions, the experience of pleasant sensations coming from our meditation, and the calming of our mental processes so much so that both body and mind can actually abide in a state of blissful engagement in meditation.

This in turn can benefit our life outside of meditation as we bring that sense of peace, calmness and mindful awareness into our daily interactions.

meet our retreat leader

Venerable Tenzin Tsapel was inspired to become a Buddhist after she met Lama Yeshe and Lama Zopa in 1979. She was ordained five years later by H.H. the Dalai Lama. Tsapel served as a resident teacher at FPMT Centres in Sydney, New Zealand and in Mongolia. She also taught and/or tutored at the Chenrezig Nuns Community in QLD for seven years. Venerable Tsapel has led many group retreats and completed a number of solitary retreats including a two-year calm abiding (mindfulness) retreat on Kangaroo Island after attending a group retreat led by Alan Wallace. Currently, she is establishing a nunnery in Bendigo, Victoria.

residential options

Deepen your retreat experience by staying at Vajrayana Institute. 

Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Vajrayana Institute, where comfort, convenience, and mindfulness merge seamlessly. 

Accommodation for the retreat is limited. Be sure to get in quick and book your stay today!


retreat package

3 day calm abiding retreat

$ 375
  • guided and silent meditations, with explanations on the practice and time for Q&A or discussion
  • catered lunch
  • retreat materials

3 day calm abiding retreat + 2 nights shared accommodation

$ 575
  • guided and silent meditations, with explanations on the practice and time for Q&A or discussion
  • catered lunch
  • retreat materials
  • 2 nights shared accommodation

3 day calm abiding retreat + 3 nights shared accommodation

$ 675
  • guided and silent meditations, with explanations on the practice and time for Q&A or discussion
  • catered lunch
  • retreat materials
  • 2 nights shared accommodation
  • Extra night accommodation evening prior

get your ticket

Puja for Lama Zopa Rinpoche

by

About the Puja

 
Join us for a special Guru Puja to mark the anniversary of the passing of our precious guru Lama Zopa Rinpoche. Led by Geshe Samten 
 
As Rinpoche himself explained,
“Making offerings on the death anniversary of a guru is an incredible practice in that it brings about the greatest purification of negative karma and collects the most extensive merit.”
 
This puja will be in person only at Vajrayana Institute. 
Picture of Geshe Ngawang Samten

Geshe Ngawang Samten

Geshe-la was born at Panchamari, MP, India. At the age of nine, he entered the Sera Monastic Institute and took the vows of monk ordination with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Geshe-la completed his studies and attained his Geshe degree at the highest level of a Lharampa, the equivalent of a PhD in Buddhist Philosophy. He taught as a lecturer in the Gelug tradition at the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarnath. Since 2003, Geshe-la has been the main resident teacher at VI.

When

Saturday 13th April, 4 pm

Where

In-person at Vajrayana Institute,
9 Victoria Square, Ashfield

Cost

By Donation

Suitable For

Everyone

Watch Live Stream

‘Buddha Nature’ with Venerable Thubten Chodron

by

About the teachings

Knowledge of Buddha Nature reveals and reconciles the paradox of how the mind can be the basis for both the duhkha of samsara (the unpurified mind) and the bliss and fulfillment of nirvana (the purified mind). Venerable Chodron will delve into the meaning of Buddha Nature and explain to us how to purify our minds and cultivate awakened qualities.

Picture of Venerable Thubten Chodron

Venerable Thubten Chodron

Venerable Thubten Chodron is an author, teacher, and the founder and abbess of Sravasti Abbey, one of the first Tibetan Buddhist training monasteries for Western nuns and monks in the US. She graduated from UCLA, and did graduate work in education at USC. Ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist nun in 1977, she has studied extensively with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tsenzhap Serkong Rinpoche, and Kyabje Zopa Rinpoche. She received full ordination as a bhikshuni in 1986. Venerable Chodron teaches worldwide and is known for her warm, practical, and humorous explanations of how to apply Buddhist teachings in daily life. She is also involved in prison outreach and interfaith dialogue. She has published many books on Buddhist philosophy and meditation, and is currently assisting His Holiness the Dalai Lama in the writing and publication of The Library of Wisdom and Compassion, a multi-volume series of teachings on the Buddhist path. Visit thubtenchodron.org for a media library of her teachings, and sravasti.org to learn more about Sravasti Abbey.

Register

Register Now

When

14th July 10 am AEST

Where

Streamed Online via Zoom

Cost

By Donation
(Suggested: $20 per class)

Suitable For

Everyone

Watch Live Stream

Live stream this class

Join our live stream by selecting an option below. If you wish to make a donation select the donate button. Once you have donated, close the donation window and select ‘Join Class’. If you’ve already made a donation or do not wish to donate at this time, click the Join the Class button below.

I want to donate for this class

I've already made a donation

Join the Class

I don't wish to donate at this time

Join the Class

Counteracting laziness with Ven. Robina

by

About the teachings

Each month, with skill and her characteristic humor, Venerable Robina Courtin will unpack and discuss a key topic relating to how to apply practical Buddhism in our daily life, concepts, and fundamentals of Buddhist Psychology, and how to develop and train our minds in these principles. 

Picture of Venerable Robina

Venerable Robina

Ordained since the late 1970s, Ven. Robina has worked full-time since then for Lama Thubten Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche's FPMT. Over the years she has served as editorial director of Wisdom Publications, editor of Mandala Magazine, executive director of Liberation Prison Project, and as a touring teacher of Buddhism. Her life and work with prisoners have been featured in the documentary films Chasing Buddha and Key to Freedom. Venerable Robina has traveled extensively and taught the Dharma all over the world. Venerable is an extraordinary person with boundless energy and charisma and her style when teaching the Dharma is sparklingly clear, direct, and compassionate.

Register for the Class

Register for the Class

When

10 am - 11.30 am
21st July 2024

Where

Streamed Online via Zoom

Cost

By Donation
(Suggested: $20 per class)

Suitable For

Everyone

Watch Live Stream

Live stream this class

Join our live stream by selecting an option below. If you wish to make a donation select the donate button. Once you have donated, close the donation window and select ‘Join Class’. If you’ve already made a donation or do not wish to donate at this time, click the Join the Class button below.

I want to donate for this class

I've already made a donation

Join the Class

I don't wish to donate at this time

Join the Class

‘Taming the Monkey Mind’ with Venerable Thubten Chodron

by

About the teachings

‘Taming the monkey mind’ is for all who wish to understand themselves. Venerable Chodron will explain the essence of the Buddhist view of life, and discuss how to apply it in relationships with friends, family and colleagues. Venerable Chodron’s open-minded approach makes this teaching suitable for Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike. 

Picture of Venerable Thubten Chodron

Venerable Thubten Chodron

Venerable Thubten Chodron is an author, teacher, and the founder and abbess of Sravasti Abbey, one of the first Tibetan Buddhist training monasteries for Western nuns and monks in the US. She graduated from UCLA, and did graduate work in education at USC. Ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist nun in 1977, she has studied extensively with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tsenzhap Serkong Rinpoche, and Kyabje Zopa Rinpoche. She received full ordination as a bhikshuni in 1986. Venerable Chodron teaches worldwide and is known for her warm, practical, and humorous explanations of how to apply Buddhist teachings in daily life. She is also involved in prison outreach and interfaith dialogue. She has published many books on Buddhist philosophy and meditation, and is currently assisting His Holiness the Dalai Lama in the writing and publication of The Library of Wisdom and Compassion, a multi-volume series of teachings on the Buddhist path. Visit thubtenchodron.org for a media library of her teachings, and sravasti.org to learn more about Sravasti Abbey.

Register

Register Now

When

23rd June 10 am AEST

Where

Streamed Online via Zoom

Cost

By Donation
(Suggested: $20 per class)

Suitable For

Everyone

Watch Live Stream

Live stream this class

Join our live stream by selecting an option below. If you wish to make a donation select the donate button. Once you have donated, close the donation window and select ‘Join Class’. If you’ve already made a donation or do not wish to donate at this time, click the Join the Class button below.

I want to donate for this class

I've already made a donation

Join the Class

I don't wish to donate at this time

Join the Class

Moulding our mind with Ven. Robina

by

About the teachings

Each month, with skill and her characteristic humor, Venerable Robina Courtin will unpack and discuss a key topic relating to how to apply practical Buddhism in our daily life, concepts, and fundamentals of Buddhist Psychology, and how to develop and train our minds in these principles. 

Picture of Venerable Robina

Venerable Robina

Ordained since the late 1970s, Ven. Robina has worked full-time since then for Lama Thubten Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche's FPMT. Over the years she has served as editorial director of Wisdom Publications, editor of Mandala Magazine, executive director of Liberation Prison Project, and as a touring teacher of Buddhism. Her life and work with prisoners have been featured in the documentary films Chasing Buddha and Key to Freedom. Venerable Robina has traveled extensively and taught the Dharma all over the world. Venerable is an extraordinary person with boundless energy and charisma and her style when teaching the Dharma is sparklingly clear, direct, and compassionate.

Register for the Class

Register for the Class

When

10 am - 11.30 am
16th June 2024

Where

Streamed Online via Zoom

Cost

By Donation
(Suggested: $20 per class)

Suitable For

Everyone

Watch Live Stream

Live stream this class

Join our live stream by selecting an option below. If you wish to make a donation select the donate button. Once you have donated, close the donation window and select ‘Join Class’. If you’ve already made a donation or do not wish to donate at this time, click the Join the Class button below.

I want to donate for this class

I've already made a donation

Join the Class

I don't wish to donate at this time

Join the Class

Unlock the Wisdom of Tibetan Medicine: Rejuvenate the Body and Mind

by

About the teachings

Explore a journey of rejuvenation rooted in the time-honoured traditions of Tibetan Medicine.

Explore rejuvenation techniques deeply embedded in Tibetan Medicine, encompassing mind-body practices, herbal remedies, and dietary strategies.

Uncover the synergistic effects of combining mind-body practices, herbal remedies, and dietary strategies for comprehensive revitalisation.

Acquire actionable insights on seamlessly incorporating rejuvenation practices into your daily routine, promoting holistic vitality and overall well-being.

Picture of Pema Gyaltsen

Pema Gyaltsen

Pema Gyaltsen is a Tibetan Medicine Practicioner with a rich cultural background and a deep passion for Tibetan medicine. He completed his formal education at Men-Tsee-Khang, an esteemed institution known for preserving and promoting the ancient wisdom of Tibetan medicine. With over 15 years of dedicated study and practical experience as a Tibetan medicine practitioner and teacher, he is guided by the principles of balance, harmony, and individualised care. Pema's goal is to offer holistic healing and promote wellness by preserving the ancient knowledge of Tibetan medicine and serving humanity with unwavering dedication and compassion.

Register for the Class

Register for the Class

When

10 am - 11.30 am
Saturday 15th June

Where

In-person at Vajrayana Institute

Cost

By Donation
(Suggested: $20 per class)

Suitable For

Everyone

Love vs attachment with Ven. Robina

by

About the teachings

Each month, with skill and her characteristic humor, Venerable Robina Courtin will unpack and discuss a key topic relating to how to apply practical Buddhism in our daily life, concepts, and fundamentals of Buddhist Psychology, and how to develop and train our minds in these principles. 

Picture of Venerable Robina

Venerable Robina

Ordained since the late 1970s, Ven. Robina has worked full-time since then for Lama Thubten Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche's FPMT. Over the years she has served as editorial director of Wisdom Publications, editor of Mandala Magazine, executive director of Liberation Prison Project, and as a touring teacher of Buddhism. Her life and work with prisoners have been featured in the documentary films Chasing Buddha and Key to Freedom. Venerable Robina has traveled extensively and taught the Dharma all over the world. Venerable is an extraordinary person with boundless energy and charisma and her style when teaching the Dharma is sparklingly clear, direct, and compassionate.

Register for the Class

Register for the Class

When

10 am - 11.30 am
26th May 2024

Where

Streamed Online via Zoom

Cost

By Donation
(Suggested: $20 per class)

Suitable For

Everyone

Watch Live Stream

Live stream this class

Join our live stream by selecting an option below. If you wish to make a donation select the donate button. Once you have donated, close the donation window and select ‘Join Class’. If you’ve already made a donation or do not wish to donate at this time, click the Join the Class button below.

I want to donate for this class

I've already made a donation

Join the Class

I don't wish to donate at this time

Join the Class

‘Working with Anger’ with Venerable Thubten Chodron

by

About the teachings

Venerable Chodron will discuss a variety of Buddhist methods for subduing anger, not by changing what is happening, but by working with our minds to frame situations differently. No matter what our religion is, learning to work with anger can benefit us all.

Picture of Venerable Thubten Chodron

Venerable Thubten Chodron

Venerable Thubten Chodron is an author, teacher, and the founder and abbess of Sravasti Abbey, one of the first Tibetan Buddhist training monasteries for Western nuns and monks in the US. She graduated from UCLA, and did graduate work in education at USC. Ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist nun in 1977, she has studied extensively with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tsenzhap Serkong Rinpoche, and Kyabje Zopa Rinpoche. She received full ordination as a bhikshuni in 1986. Venerable Chodron teaches worldwide and is known for her warm, practical, and humorous explanations of how to apply Buddhist teachings in daily life. She is also involved in prison outreach and interfaith dialogue. She has published many books on Buddhist philosophy and meditation, and is currently assisting His Holiness the Dalai Lama in the writing and publication of The Library of Wisdom and Compassion, a multi-volume series of teachings on the Buddhist path. Visit thubtenchodron.org for a media library of her teachings, and sravasti.org to learn more about Sravasti Abbey.

Register

Register Now

When

5th May 10 am AEST

Where

Streamed Online via Zoom

Cost

By Donation
(Suggested: $20 per class)

Suitable For

Everyone

Watch Live Stream

Live stream this class

Join our live stream by selecting an option below. If you wish to make a donation select the donate button. Once you have donated, close the donation window and select ‘Join Class’. If you’ve already made a donation or do not wish to donate at this time, click the Join the Class button below.

I want to donate for this class

I've already made a donation

Join the Class

I don't wish to donate at this time

Join the Class

Unlock the Wisdom of Tibetan Medicine: Life force energy

by

About the teachings

Immerse yourself in the essence of “རླུང། Loong,” or “wind” the vital life force that governs physical and mental well-being. Explore practices to enhance and balance the life force energy for overall health.

Gain a profound understanding of how rLung coordinates essential life functions and influences consciousness.

Discover transformative practices designed to enhance, balance, and optimise your life force energy.

Explore a holistic approach to life, fostering vitality and resilience through a harmonious connection with your life force energy.

Picture of Pema Gyaltsen

Pema Gyaltsen

Pema Gyaltsen is a Tibetan Medicine Practicioner with a rich cultural background and a deep passion for Tibetan medicine. He completed his formal education at Men-Tsee-Khang, an esteemed institution known for preserving and promoting the ancient wisdom of Tibetan medicine. With over 15 years of dedicated study and practical experience as a Tibetan medicine practitioner and teacher, he is guided by the principles of balance, harmony, and individualised care. Pema's goal is to offer holistic healing and promote wellness by preserving the ancient knowledge of Tibetan medicine and serving humanity with unwavering dedication and compassion.

Register for the Class

Register for the Class

When

10 am - 11.30 am
Saturday 11th May

Where

In-person at Vajrayana Institute

Cost

By Donation
(Suggested: $20 per class)

Suitable For

Everyone

Vajrayana Institute is a Buddhist Centre located in Ashfield, NSW Australia. Vajrayana Institute is a non-profit incorporated association that is affiliated with the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), a grouping of over 150 meditation centres worldwide. 

View FPMT Australia policies and procedures
View Vajrayana Institute’s  Protection from Abuse Policy

Vajrayana Institute acknowledge the Gadigal and Wangal peoples of the Eora nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which our centre sits. We pay respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

Facebook-f Youtube Instagram
X