Our Inner Freedom: Looking Within

The Buddha’s life and teachings show that we all encounter change and loss. Our lives are changing all the time, often in small ways, but sometimes impermanence turns our whole world upside down. Sometimes, the experience of such a powerful reminder of impermanence can be frightening;  and we feel an urgent need to question and challenge our life’s priorities.

The deeper implications of impermanence –that everything is interdependent and selfless – can help us to let go of grasping and fixating on our circumstances as solid and real. As we deepen our reflection, we may well emerge from self-destructive habits that may be causing us to be unhappy or dissatisfied. If we can take the message of impermanence and death to heart fully we can discover the deathless nature of mind that is the doorway to genuine and lasting freedom.

This year-long course consists of three modules. The first will present a series of contemplations and meditations on impermanence, death, selflessness and emptiness. This can assist us to move beyond  the clutches of fear and discover a new meaning, a new inspiration, and a new joy in our lives. The second, looks at how the Buddha’s own life embodies the deep truths he taught. And the third, takes a deep dive into the elements of the Buddha’s teaching that distinguish Buddhism from all other religious and philosophical approaches.

Led by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience, each session consists of:

• Video teachings from Tibetan and Western Buddhist masters including Patrick Gaffney, Sogyal Rinpoche, Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche, Mingyur Rinpoche, Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche.

• Meditation practice

• Time for contemplation

• Group discussions and Q&A, offering each student the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment.