Shambhala Training Level 1: The Art of Being Human

In this time of great confusion and doubt, the Shambhala teachings present the view that human beings, at the core, are fundamentally awake and worthy. By training in meditation, we learn to access our basic goodness, slow down, and relax to the freshness of the present moment, no matter what that moment may bring.

We discover that awakening is not about escaping from the world we live in, but is about bringing our practice to every aspect of our lives: work, play, relationships, and more. When we give ourselves the opportunity to reconnect with our true human existence — the experience of our five senses, the feeling of emotions in our body, and even the awareness of thoughts across our minds — we discover how to live and be in the world with a clear mind, gentle heart, and sense of humor.

This retreat is the first of a series of weekend retreats but may be taken as a standalone program. The weekend includes an introduction to sitting meditation practice, talks by a director, individual meetings with a meditation instructor, and group discussion.

We welcome people of all religious traditions as well as those who do not follow a particular spiritual path. It is designed for new meditators or those looking to reconnect with meditation practice and introduces the basic foundations of the Shambhala teachings on universal human wisdom.

Wear comfortable clothing and layers for your comfort, and also, you may bring a pen and notebook if you would like to take notes in class.