Open retreat

A public retreat with Ngak’chang Rinpoche and Khandro Déchen, who are the current holders of the Aro gTér, a lineage of ordained non-monastic yogis and yoginis of the Nyingma Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Open to all; members of the public, apprentices, friends and those wanting to know more about the Aro gTér tradition. Although the subject of the weekend is 'vajra romance', please note that everybody is welcome, whether single or with partners. 

During this residential weekend of teachings, Ngak’chang Rinpoche and Khandro Déchen will discuss the spiritual vivacity of: falling in love; perceptual intimacy; vajra romance; non-dual passion; liberated-lust; and the poignant possibility of remaining in love indefinitely.

These teachings on the intrinsically enlightened nature of romance concern the subtle interpersonal dynamics which are the innate glory of our being as women and men. The teachings are from the ‘Nyida Mélong Gyud’ which means ‘the tantra of the mutual reflection of Sun and Moon’ – these being symbols of the genders. In relationship, we reflect each other’s innermost nature. We see each other and are seen by each other as no one else can. These reflections may be distorted and horrifying, or clear and invigorating, according to the nature of how we perceive.

The paradox and passion of romantic love provide unmatched opportunities for both neurotic misery and ecstatic enlightenment. The Nyida Mélong illuminates: the problems we often encounter within relationships; the reasons we may lack fulfilment, while also failing to meet our partner’s emotional needs; and the ways romance may degenerate into clinging, cruelty, and indifference. The Nyida Mélong also reveals: romantic love as the nearest analogy for enlightenment we can find in everyday life; emptiness and enjoyment as bases for romantic relationship; the practice of taking one’s lover as a divine teacher; and the practical possibility of continuing the delicious initial rush of falling in love, in perpetuity.

“To fall in love is to taste the energy of existence and non-existence. To fall in love is to go beyond the boundaries that we set up for ourselves. To experience the real meaning of a loving relationship, is to live with impeccable verve in the sheer vividness of each moment.”
Ngak’chang Rinpoche

Recommended reading: Honey on the Razor’s Edge (article) and Entering the Heart of Sun and Moon (book).

Cost: £145 including all meals and accommodation

Dates and times: Friday November 30th 2018, arrive after 4.30pm until after lunch on Sunday December 2nd 2018

Venue: Treowen, NP25 4DL, Monmouthshire, UK

Travel: Lifts from and back to Chepstow coach or railway station are offered.

What to expect: This weekend retreat will include practice and teachings and is open to all. You can except a warm, welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. There might be time to walk in the countryside around Treowen House during some of the breaks.

Booking and further information: thrinlechatral@gmail.com