BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Planet Dharma - ECPv6.18.0//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Planet Dharma X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.planetdharma.com X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Planet Dharma REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20220101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Edmonton BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20230312T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20231105T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20240310T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20241103T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20250309T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20251102T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20260308T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T080000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230811 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230821 DTSTAMP:20260602T120328Z CREATED:20221118T031806Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260602T120328Z UID:10000635-1691712000-1692575999@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Breathing 2.0 Meditation Retreat DESCRIPTION:Breathing 2.0 \n Summer Meditation Retreat | August 11-20\, 2023\n Join Catherine Pawasarat Sensei for a life changing ten day breathing meditation retreat. Breathing practice is suitable whether you are a newbie or seasoned meditator\, or have always wanted to do a vipassana or longer retreat.  Benefit from the in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and a balanced meditative approach of the four classical meditation postures.  \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.\n Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  A Life Changing Experience\nTen Day Breathing Meditation Retreat\n\nThe breathing retreat in 2022 was so powerful for participants we just had to push the 2.0 ‘repeat’ button. Repitition for mastery is what meditation is all about -whether you are a newbie or a seasoned practitioner. Over and over again\, we hone our attentiveness to the breath until calm\, clarity and wisdom emerges. \nAt this retreat\, the practice itself is life changing\, profound and healing. And most importantly\, you will benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished  meditation teacher and wisdom holder – Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. \nBreathing meditation is suitable for all types of people.  It develops concentration\, calm\, bliss and insight – altogether leading to awakening and healing. \nIf you have a background in Vipassana retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. This retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nAn online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n\nWhile we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. \nA guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. \nThis simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between.  It includes practice in all four postures – sitting\, walking standing and lying down.  Finally\, we will also offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Did Last Year’s Breathing Retreat Meditators Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The anapanasati sutta created a deep\, deep experience for me. I was finally able to understand the 16 steps and the 4 tetrads much much better. It’s a whole new world. \nCheryl Bate Clinical Counsellor\, Private Practise\, Whistler\, BCI enjoyed reconnecting with my body\, with nature and with joyful memories during the retreat. Some of this was inspired through the breathing practice\, and some through searching for moments of piti which we could easily connect to. There was an easing during the retreat\, as well as some moments of deep connection and understanding. This time\, it was hearing spaciousness explained in a different way. \nZoe MooresTranslator\, trainer\, researcherThe breathing retreat was fantastic for me on so many levels! As my first retreat\, it really taught how me to deepen my budding meditation practice. Catherine Sensei is warm\, knowledgeable and led a wonderful course. \nJames StewartBuilding DesignerSensei\, fresh from a 3 month retreat\, gave beautiful\, grounded and profound teachings on breathing practice. The retreat worked seamlessly between those of us with the fortune to be in person\, and those joining online. Felt I could go very deep over the ten days with a transformative combination of a great teacher\, a deep practice\, a sincere group of co-retreatants\, and 310 acres in the mountains! \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Anapanasati Meditation Group\nThe power of continued community meditation practice:\nFollowing Catherine Sensei’s excellent Breathing retreat at Clear Sky and online in June 2022\, a group of students from Dharma Europe and Japan started a morning zoom meeting to help continue the practice. Meeting at 8am UK time six days a week\, we take turns to lead/hold space – usually with a reading\, sometimes an exercise\, we meditate on the breath for 45 minutes and then share our experiences. The group has grown to include more European Sangha as well as Movement Shiatsu practitioners who didn’t attend the retreat but are committed to developing their practice. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “It’s great to have the contact of the group – we learn so much from experiencing how the different parts of ourselves – individually and as a group perceive and receive the (phenomenal) world. ” \n-Jonathan Clifford \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The daily contact with awakening beings uplifts and encourages me in a practice that has been very solitary for me for many years.  The daily discipline reminds me of a monastic order\, where the task of gathering at an appointed hour to sit in silence together IS a practice in itself.” \n-Renata Drtina \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The morning sits and Anapanasati practice are an opportunity to explore and build sangha in a different way and for us to strengthen and deepen our practice together.” \n-Zoe Moores \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The Anapanasati group is an anchor – both to steady practice and being part of a group.  It helps me to be in contact when I don’t feel like it.  To practice speaking  in front of a group even when it’s not comfortable.  To practice leading a group.  And silently this group has reinforced and supported daily practice and helped me to experience contact with the experience of breathing.” \n-Brigid Maclachlan \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Fees & Requirements\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All Retreatants: A Dāna Based Retreat\n This retreat is offered on the basis of dāna (generosity). \nDāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”\, and is the traditional way in which Buddhist teachings are offered.  With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. You may have come across this in the form of “pay from the heart”. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nYou will be sent a link to offer “dana” to the teachers after registration.  \nFor more information on dāna click here. \n \n \n \n \n \n For Online Retreatants: Admin Fees & Requirements\n In order to bring you this retreat at home\, there is an additional admin fee* of $350 CAD. The admin fee is to cover the costs of running these online courses – for equipment and software to provide you the teachings online. \nIf you are taking this retreat online\, we require that you devote your full attention to the retreat for the entire week. \nRequirements include: \n\nBlock out the retreat duration and be focused on the retreat for this entire period\, using this time and participating in the retreat as if you were at Clear Sky in person.  This includes a rigorous\, full\, daily meditation schedule.\nParticipate in all of the daily classes and group practices via online streaming.\nSet up a quiet space or location where you can focus on the Meditation Retreat\, and not need to engage in conversation or work with others.\nPut away your phone\, digital devices and other distractions.\nIf there are enough people in the same time zone as you\, you could also make a cohort to meet to do a group practice throughout the retreat.\nNote: full details/ requirements will be sent to you after registering\n\n  \nAbout the administrative fee* \nIn a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online.The teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \nThe admin fee goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and videos after the Teachings)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nMay all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings! \n*We also do not wish to exclude anyone from the Teachings\, so if you are not currently in a financial position to afford the admin fee\, please contact us so we can support you to attend. \nWe welcome any questions. Please feel free to contact registrar@planetdharma.com. \n \n \n \n \n \n Retreatants at Clear Sky: Lodging Fees & Covid 19 Protocols\n In addition to Dana to the Teacher\, Clear Sky Meditation Centre provides an incredible space for your retreat.  Situated on a beautiful 310-acre property in the Rocky Mountains\, the center and its karma yogis provide you nourishing daily meals and comfortable accomodation. Read more: Staying with us (Clear Sky Meditation Centre) \nPlease go to the retreat registration page for this retreat for details of the all inclusive fee for the retreat. \nCovid-19 Protocols\nOur retreats comply with current BC Covid-19 Health Orders.  Please refer to those provincial guidelines as well as the Canadian federal travel guidelines\, especially if you are planning to travel to Clear Sky Center in person. \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule\n Specific times may change (MST) \n\n\n\nRETREAT DAILY SCHEDULE\n\n\n\n\n\n\n6:30 – 7:30 AM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n\n\n\n7:30 – 8:15 AM\nBreakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n\n8:15 – 8:45 AM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n\n\n9:00 – 10:00 AM\nClass with Teachers\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n10:00 – 10:30 AM\nWalk\n\n\n\n10:30 – 11:30 AM\nGroup Practice lead by Sangha\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n11:30 – 12:30 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n12:30 – 1:30 PM\nLunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n\n\n1:30 – 3:00 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n\n\n3:00 – 4:00 PM\nGroup Practice lead by Sangha\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n4:00 – 5:30 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n\n\n\n5:30 – 7:00 PM \nDinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n\n\n7:00 – 7:30 PM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n\n\n7:30 – 8:30 PM\nGroup Practice and Q & A with Teachers\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n8:30 – beyond\nPersonal Practice & bed\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ready to Register?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please phone 250-429-3929\, or contact bookings@clearskycenter.org. \n  \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n RETREAT AT CLEAR SKY\n \n RETREAT ONLINE\n \n \n \n \n \n Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is July 28th 2023. Registration deadline for online retreatants is Aug. 4th 2023. URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/breathing-meditation-retreat-2023/ LOCATION:Clear Sky Meditation & Study Centre\, 3567 Cockell Rd\, Bull River\, British Columbia\, V0B1N0\, Canada CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/20.jpg GEO:49.615543;-115.6300709 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Clear Sky Meditation & Study Centre 3567 Cockell Rd Bull River British Columbia V0B1N0 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=3567 Cockell Rd:geo:-115.6300709,49.615543 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20231006 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20231023 DTSTAMP:20260604T114822Z CREATED:20230127T195025Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T114822Z UID:10000643-1696550400-1698019199@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:The Mind’s Cutting Edge: 12 Manjushri (Retreat) DESCRIPTION:The Mind’s Cutting Edge: 12 Manjushri\n Meditation Retreat| October 6-22\, 2023\n Do you wish to embrace wisdom and its different manifestations? Manjushri is an archetype of wisdom. In this retreat we will focus on developing cognitive intelligence\, discrimination\, clarity and mental rigor. Our methodology will be the Twelve Manjushri deity yoga practice from the Vajrayana tradition. \nHail to the wisdom that is ripening! \n OverviewDetails\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12 Manjushri Meditation (Retreat)\nManjushri\, or Mañjuśrī (Sanskrit: मञ्जुश्री) is associated with prajñā (wisdom) in Mahāyāna Buddhism. Our deity yoga work with this particular aspect of the awakened mind will relate to the development of cognitive intelligence.  \nWhile Manjushri is most commonly depicted alone\, this Twelve Manjushri practice is a particular deity yoga practice with 12 emanations of Manjushri in one sadhana.   \nManjushri’s name means “Gentle Glory” in Sanskrit – and this practice of twelve manjushris will be 12 times that!   \nPrerequisites/Preparation: Though more experience with extensive meditation is an asset\, the retreat is open to all experience levels.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12 Manjushri Meditation (Retreat)\nMeditation Retreat including Vajrayana Empowerment\nOctober 6 – 22\, 2023 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Video: Why Undertake the Twelve Manjushri Practice?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What’s Expected of Me if I Come to This Retreat?\n \n \n \n \n \n \nA strong foundation of parami and a willingness to see other dimensions and cultivate your mind\, drug free.\nThe more extensive meditation experience you’ve had the better. For beginners to meditation\, we suggest the Breathing Retreat in August.\nYou are responsible for your own wellbeing.\nTo maximize your depth of practice\, we ask that you refrain from reading\, using the internet\, phone or listening to music during the course.\n\nThe Location – Clear Sky Center \n\nLocated in the BC rocky mountains\, Clear Sky offers over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature. Founded by Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat\, the centre is home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world.\nSample Daily Schedule\nHow to get there\, what to bring and other FAQ about Clear Sky\nOur teachings and Clear Sky operate based on the ancient tradition of dāna or generosity. As generosity is the basis upon which all spiritual practice flourishes\, we recommend that you learn more about this profound practice before you register.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The 12 Manjushri Empowerment (Wongkur)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n During this retreat\, a tantric initiation or empowerment (Wongkur) will be given by Qapel and Sensei. This provides the foundation for the meditation practice and reflection throughout the retreat. \n \n \n \n \n \n What is Wongkur? (Vajrayana Empowerments)\nInitiations\, empowerments\, or wongkur (Tib. དབང་\, wang) are considered the spring from which all blessings flow. More literally\, these are ritual celebrations in which a specific teaching is transmitted from Teacher to student that enables the student to practice a new form of “Arising Yoga” or “Deity Practice”. \nFor more information about wongkur\, we recommend reading ‘What is Wongkur’\, which includes ‘A Western Psychological Orientation to Deity Yoga’ by the Venerable Namgyal Rinpoche and ‘A Traditional Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhist View’ by His Holiness the 41st Sakya Trizin. It is extensive article\, published by Wesley Knapp. Visit and support his archival work at the Sakya Namgyal Archive.  \n \n \n Download PDF - What is Wongkur\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTRATION\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teachers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doug Duncan\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat are Dharma and meditation teachers who founded Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, BC\, Canada. Achariya Doug Duncan received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 1978\, and is a lineage holder in that teaching. Known for his direct\, humourous and compassionate engagement with students\, Doug embraces various traditions\, contemporary psychology\, and science\, to mentor all beings to a more awakened state. Catherine Pawasarat has trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan since 1998 in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and the arts. With Doug she is co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center in the BC Rockies.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Do Previous Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n These are ancient teachings that I feel are important to understand if someone is serious about meditation. I appreciate Qapel and Sensei’s unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these life changing practices. They explore the rich history with us and also deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \nJenai LieuPsychology student\, CanadaWorking with Qapel and Sensei at the five day hero’s journey workshop was deeply impactful and has clarified not only my deepest heart’s desire\, but what I need to overcome to manifest it. They are extraordinary facilitators with a great depth of knowledge\, wisdom and presence to share. \nKira MacDuffeeM.Ed / RCCDoing karma yoga\, I watch how everyone gains new insights.  These many “a-ha moments” makes it clear to me that this type of active dharma training is a path that brings the modern spiritual explorer alive and moves them forward. \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive\, Clear Sky Accountability OfficerQapel and Sensei have consistently been honest\, accurate and candid with me. It has sometimes taken me years to admit my self-sabotaging blind spots. Clear and radical self-honesty liberates my sticky parts. Thank you to my master teachers for helping me free up all the energy knots – especially the ones created from unconscious patterning around money\, sex and power. \nEvangelos DiavolitsisMeditation Teacher and Coach\, Four Ways to Freedom. Italy\, Canada.Qapel and Sensei are always burning calories to get you back on a path that can lead toward greater self-awareness. When I am with these two very clear individuals\, I am humbled by their dedication to others\, and understand the every-waking-moment responsibility that comes with their calling. \nPeter UjlakiFine Art Dealer\, Japan \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Details\nFees and Dāna\nThis course is run based on the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna.  There are also fees for meals and accommodation at Clear Sky Retreat Center\, where the retreat is held.  Please see registration page via button below for details. \nArrival / departure: Arrival time is October 5th (or earlier) if coming internationally / long-haul flight\, or October 6th by 4pm if traveling regionally. Check out is possible from Sunday October 22nd at the earliest\, however you are invited to stay longer for one of  Clear Sky’s hybrid stay options. \nIn order to give enough time to rest from travel before the retreat starts\, we recommend that domestic travellers arrive one day early\, and long distance international travellers arrive two days early. After the retreat we also suggest staying for at least another day for integration. \nBooking a flight? Airport pickups can be booked when you register for the retreat. On the rare chance that this retreat is cancelled or if unforseen global circumstances cause travel interruptions\, we highly recommend purchasing travel insurance and modifiable tickets.  \nPlease register as early as possible. September 22 2023 is the last day to register. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ready to Register?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please phone 250-429-3929\, or contact bookings@clearskycenter.org. \n \n Register Now URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/12-manjushri-retreat-2023/ CATEGORIES:Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/17.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240308 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240318 DTSTAMP:20260514T104954Z CREATED:20230924T235411Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260514T104954Z UID:10000652-1709856000-1710719999@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Five Stages of Emptiness DESCRIPTION:The Five Stages of Emptiness\n Meditation Retreat | March 8-17\, 2024\n Completely empty… completely full. Ironically\, society gives the word “empty” a bad rap. Far from that commonly held emotional meaning\, when we say “emptiness\,” we mean something that’s considered a great—perhaps the greatest—gift. Are you ready to deepen your contact with it? In this retreat\, we will learn how we construct reality from false views—and how to penetrate through this illusion. The results are greater clarity\, freedom and joy. Join Qapel Doug Duncan & Catherine Pawasarat Sensei for this week of insight meditation. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Stages of emptiness is empty of stages. But to understand emptiness you need to study the five stages… We really should say that reality is an infinite universe of empty\, but we need words to wrap our cognitive brains around it.\nWe are here in order to be compassionate. But who says anyone is here?\n Qapel\, on stages of emptiness.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pre-requisites: Meditation experience and previous retreat work is highly recommended. For beginners to meditation\, we recommend starting with the Breathing Retreat\, a private cabin retreat with guidance\, or our center’s meditation circle. \n  \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Five Stages of Emptiness.\nHow deeply do you understand—and experience—emptiness? What’s this about “stages”? This retreat focuses on what are progressive stages of meditation on emptiness. There is always another door\, until one reaches the final door\, the state of total freedom with no state beyond it. We will study\, reflect and meditate on the spacious potentiality behind all phenomena\, which opens the door to greater freedom and creativity in all of our lives. We can only choose the road less traveled toward a future of better habits and more beautiful possibilities if we can see the actual space for such a road in the first place. \nThe aim here is to gain experiential\, firsthand physiological contact with the descriptions of form and emptiness from Buddhist philosophy and quantum physics. The actual experience of these philosophies and scientific realities are the gateway to applied\, practical wellbeing in our modern world. \nThis retreat is led by Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei at Clear Sky Meditation Center in Eastern BC. The teachers founded this center to support students to awaken in this lifetime. We invite retreatants who wish to embark on a week of earnest study\, meditation and reflection\, and in doing so\, welcome those who wish to transform the struggle in their lives. \nWhile we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of thefour foundational practices of our teaching. \nAn online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. However\, online participants must attend in a retreat-like setting in their own locations—in silence and free from distractions\, including work or family duties. \nTexts for this course: \n\nProgressive Stages of Meditation on Emptiness by Khenpo Tsultrim Gyamtso Rinpoche (Author)\, Lama Shenpen Hookham (Translator) \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What’s Expected of Me?\n\nAn open mind and heart\, and a spirit of adventure are excellent things to bring!\nIt’s human to have some apprehensions about doing something new\, meeting new people\, or going to a new place—particularly when all three happen together. We try to make this as supportive as possible.\nWhen exploring our growth edges\, it’s natural to feel uncertain and awkward. And it’s very fruitful to transform that emotional tension into creative energy by drawing on your own inner resources—such as inquiry\, going with the flow\, and self-reflection\, just a few of the many kinds of constructive engagement.\nTo maximize your retreat experience\, we ask that you refrain from reading\, using the internet\, phone or listening to music during the course.\nStudents are expected to be silent during the silent parts of the retreat\, and participate in all classes\, group meditations\, activities\, and discussions.\nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances before or during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n The Location – Clear Sky Center\n\nLocated in the BC rocky mountains\, Clear Sky offers over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature. Founded by Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, the center is home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world.\n\n\nHow to get there\, what to bring and other FAQ about Clear Sky\nOur teachings and Clear Sky operate based on the ancient tradition of dāna or generosity. As generosity is the basis upon which all spiritual practice flourishes\, we recommend that you learn more about this profound practice before you register.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teachers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doug Duncan\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat are Dharma and meditation teachers who founded Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, BC\, Canada. \nAchariya Doug Duncan received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 1978\, and is a lineage holder in that teaching. Known for his direct\, humourous and compassionate engagement with students\, Doug embraces various traditions\, contemporary psychology\, and science\, to mentor all beings to a more awakened state. \nCatherine Pawasarat has trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan since 1998 in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and the arts. With Doug she is co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center in the BC Rockies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Do Previous Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n These are ancient teachings that I feel are important to understand if someone is serious about meditation. I appreciate Qapel and Sensei’s unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these life changing practices. They explore the rich history with us and also deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \nJenai LieuPsychology student\, CanadaWorking with Qapel and Sensei at the five day hero’s journey workshop was deeply impactful and has clarified not only my deepest heart’s desire\, but what I need to overcome to manifest it. They are extraordinary facilitators with a great depth of knowledge\, wisdom and presence to share. \nKira MacDuffeeM.Ed / RCCDoing karma yoga\, I watch how everyone gains new insights.  These many “a-ha moments” makes it clear to me that this type of active dharma training is a path that brings the modern spiritual explorer alive and moves them forward. \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive\, Clear Sky Accountability OfficerQapel and Sensei have consistently been honest\, accurate and candid with me. It has sometimes taken me years to admit my self-sabotaging blind spots. Clear and radical self-honesty liberates my sticky parts. Thank you to my master teachers for helping me free up all the energy knots – especially the ones created from unconscious patterning around money\, sex and power. \nEvangelos DiavolitsisMeditation Teacher and Coach\, Four Ways to Freedom. Italy\, Canada.Qapel and Sensei are always burning calories to get you back on a path that can lead toward greater self-awareness. When I am with these two very clear individuals\, I am humbled by their dedication to others\, and understand the every-waking-moment responsibility that comes with their calling. \nPeter UjlakiFine Art Dealer\, Japan \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Fees & Requirements\n \n \n \n \n \n Arrivals and Departures\nFor those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on March 8th. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  \nDepartures will begin on March 17th\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All Retreatants: A Dāna Based Retreat\n This retreat is offered on the basis of dāna (generosity). \nDāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”\, and is the traditional way in which Buddhist teachings are offered.  With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. You may have come across this in the form of “pay from the heart”. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nYou will be sent a link to offer “dana” to the teachers after registration. \nFor more information on dāna click here.\n \n \n \n \n \n For Online Retreatants: Admin Fees & Requirements\n In order to bring you this retreat at home\, there is an additional admin fee* of $350 CAD. The admin fee is to cover the costs of running these online courses – for equipment and software to provide you the teachings online. \nIf you are taking this retreat online\, we require that you devote your full attention to the retreat for the entire week. \nRequirements include: \n\nBlock out the retreat duration and be focused on the retreat for this entire period\, using this time and participating in the retreat as if you were at Clear Sky in person.  This includes a rigorous\, full\, daily meditation schedule.\nParticipate in all of the daily classes and group practices via online streaming.\nSet up a quiet space or location where you can focus on the Meditation Retreat\, and not need to engage in conversation or work with others.\nPut away your phone\, digital devices and other distractions.\nIf there are enough people in the same time zone as you\, you could also make a cohort to meet to do a group practice throughout the retreat.\nNote: full details/ requirements will be sent to you after registering\n\n  \nAbout the administrative fee* \nIn a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online.\nThe teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \nThe admin fee goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and videos after the Teachings)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nMay all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings! \n*We also do not wish to exclude anyone from the Teachings\, so if you are not currently in a financial position to afford the admin fee\, please contact us so we can support you to attend. \nWe welcome any questions. Please feel free to contact registrar@planetdharma.com.\n \n \n \n \n \n Retreatants at Clear Sky: Lodging Fees & Covid 19 Protocols\n In addition to Dana to the Teacher\, Clear Sky Meditation Centre provides an incredible space for your retreat.  Situated on a beautiful 310-acre property in the Rocky Mountains\, the center and its karma yogis provide you nourishing daily meals and comfortable accomodation. Read more: Staying with us (Clear Sky Meditation Centre) \nPlease go to the retreat registration page for this retreat for details of the all inclusive fee for the retreat. \nCovid-19 Protocols\nOur retreats comply with current BC Covid-19 Health Orders.  Please refer to those provincial guidelines as well as the Canadian federal travel guidelines\, especially if you are planning to travel to Clear Sky Center in person.\n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule\n Specific times may change (MST) \n\n\n\nRETREAT DAILY SCHEDULE\n\n\n\n\n\n\n6:30 – 7:30 AM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n7:30 – 8:15 AM\nBreakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n8:15 – 8:45 AM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n9:00 – 10:00 AM\nClass with Teachers\n\n\n10:00 – 10:30 AM\nWalk\n\n\n10:30 – 11:30 AM\nGroup Practice lead by Sangha\n\n\n11:30 – 12:30 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n12:30 – 1:30 PM\nLunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n1:30 – 3:00 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n3:00 – 4:00 PM\nGroup Practice lead by Sangha\n\n\n4:00 – 5:30 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n5:30 – 7:00 PM \nDinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n7:00 – 7:30 PM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n7:30 – 8:30 PM\nGroup Practice and Q & A with Teachers\n\n\n8:30 – beyond\nPersonal Practice & bed\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Micro-Dosing / Psychedelics\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths. Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. \nConsuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects. \nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ready to Register?\nPlease click on the buttons to register for either retreat option. If you have questions about the retreat\, please phone 250-429-3929\, or contact bookings@clearskycenter.org. \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration deadlines:  \n\nIn-Person Participants: February 23rd 2024\nOnline Participants: March 1st\, 2024\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Take advantage of early bird pricing by registering as early as possible. \n \n RETREAT AT CLEAR SKY\n \n RETREAT ONLINE URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/five-stages-of-emptiness-retreat-2024/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240524 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240603 DTSTAMP:20260409T120521Z CREATED:20230910T215751Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260409T120521Z UID:10000650-1716508800-1717372799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Breathing Retreat 2024 DESCRIPTION:Breathing \n Summer Meditation Retreat | May 24- June 2\, 2024\n This breath will change your life. Join Catherine Pawasarat Sensei in an eight-day breathing meditation retreat. This practice is suitable whether you are a newbie or seasoned meditator\, or have always wanted to do a vipassana or longer retreat. Gift yourself the in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and a balanced meditative approach of the four classical meditation postures. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.\n Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience\nEight Day Breathing Meditation Retreat\n\nIt’s with you every moment of your life. It is the universe\, alive. And it is a tool for liberation\, free and always\, every second\, readily available. The breath. \nOver and over again\, we hone our attentiveness to the breath until calm\, clarity and wisdom emerges. And it always emerges. \nAt this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. \nIf you have a background in Vipassana retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. \nIn the words of our Teachers’ Teacher\, the Venerable Namgyal Rinpoche\, “meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” \nAn online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n\nWhile we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. \nAnother of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  It is an incredibly powerful methodology. In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness: body\, feeling\, mind\, and mental objects. It is a guide to liberation. \nThis simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Did Last Year’s Breathing Retreat Meditators Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The anapanasati sutta created a deep\, deep experience for me. I was finally able to understand the 16 steps and the 4 tetrads much much better. It’s a whole new world. \nCheryl Bate Clinical Counsellor\, Private Practise\, Whistler\, BCI enjoyed reconnecting with my body\, with nature and with joyful memories during the retreat. Some of this was inspired through the breathing practice\, and some through searching for moments of piti which we could easily connect to. There was an easing during the retreat\, as well as some moments of deep connection and understanding. This time\, it was hearing spaciousness explained in a different way. \nZoe MooresTranslator\, trainer\, researcherThe breathing retreat was fantastic for me on so many levels! As my first retreat\, it really taught how me to deepen my budding meditation practice. Catherine Sensei is warm\, knowledgeable and led a wonderful course. \nJames StewartBuilding DesignerSensei\, fresh from a 3 month retreat\, gave beautiful\, grounded and profound teachings on breathing practice. The retreat worked seamlessly between those of us with the fortune to be in person\, and those joining online. Felt I could go very deep over the ten days with a transformative combination of a great teacher\, a deep practice\, a sincere group of co-retreatants\, and 310 acres in the mountains! \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What's Expected of Me?\n\nAn open mind and heart\, and a spirit of adventure are excellent things to bring!\nIt’s human to have some apprehensions about doing something new\, meeting new people\, or going to a new place—particularly when all three happen together. We try to make this as supportive as possible.\nWhen exploring our growth edges\, it’s natural to feel uncertain and awkward. And it’s very fruitful to transform that emotional tension into creative energy by drawing on your own inner resources—such as inquiry\, going with the flow\, and self-reflection\, just a few of the many kinds of constructive engagement.\nTo maximize your retreat experience\, we ask that you refrain from reading\, using the internet\, phone or listening to music during the course.\nStudents are expected to be silent during the silent parts of the retreat\, and participate in all classes\, group meditations\, activities\, and discussions.\nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances before or during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n The Location – Clear Sky Center\n\nLocated in the BC rocky mountains\, Clear Sky offers over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature. Founded by Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, the center is home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world.\nHow to get there\, what to bring and other FAQ about Clear Sky\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Anapanasati Meditation Group\nThe power of continued community meditation practice:\nFollowing Catherine Sensei’s excellent Breathing retreat at Clear Sky and online in June 2022\, a group of students from Dharma Europe and Japan started a morning zoom meeting to help continue the practice. Meeting at 8am UK time six days a week\, we take turns to lead/hold space – usually with a reading\, sometimes an exercise\, we meditate on the breath for 45 minutes and then share our experiences. The group has grown to include more European Sangha as well as Movement Shiatsu practitioners who didn’t attend the retreat but are committed to developing their practice. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n“It’s great to have the contact of the group – we learn so much from experiencing how the different parts of ourselves – individually and as a group perceive and receive the (phenomenal) world. ” \n\n-Jonathan Clifford \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n“The daily contact with awakening beings uplifts and encourages me in a practice that has been very solitary for me for many years.  The daily discipline reminds me of a monastic order\, where the task of gathering at an appointed hour to sit in silence together IS a practice in itself.” \n\n-Renata Drtina \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n“The morning sits and Anapanasati practice are an opportunity to explore and build sangha in a different way and for us to strengthen and deepen our practice together.” \n\n-Zoe Moores \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n“The Anapanasati group is an anchor – both to steady practice and being part of a group.  It helps me to be in contact when I don’t feel like it.  To practice speaking  in front of a group even when it’s not comfortable.  To practice leading a group.  And silently this group has reinforced and supported daily practice and helped me to experience contact with the experience of breathing.” \n\n-Brigid Maclachlan \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Fees & Requirements\n \n \n \n \n \n Arrivals and Departures\nFor those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on May 24th. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  \nDepartures will begin on June 2nd\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All Retreatants: A Dāna Based Retreat\n This retreat is offered on the basis of dāna (generosity). \nDāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”\, and is the traditional way in which Buddhist teachings are offered.  With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. You may have come across this in the form of “pay from the heart”. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nYou will be sent a link to offer “dana” to the teachers after registration.  \nFor more information on dāna click here. \n \n \n \n \n \n For Online Retreatants: Admin Fees & Requirements\n In order to bring you this retreat at home\, there is an additional admin fee* of $350 CAD\, with registration at least three weeks or more before the retreat.  Registrations three weeks or less from the the retreat start date will incur a $450 admin fee.The admin fee is to cover the costs of running these online courses – for equipment and software to provide you the teachings online. \nIf you are taking this retreat online\, we require that you devote your full attention to the retreat for the entire week. \nRequirements include: \n\nBlock out the retreat duration and be focused on the retreat for this entire period\, using this time and participating in the retreat as if you were at Clear Sky in person.  This includes a rigorous\, full\, daily meditation schedule.\nParticipate in all of the daily classes and group practices via online streaming.\nSet up a quiet space or location where you can focus on the Meditation Retreat\, and not need to engage in conversation or work with others.\nPut away your phone\, digital devices and other distractions.\nIf there are enough people in the same time zone as you\, you could also make a cohort to meet to do a group practice throughout the retreat.\nNote: full details/ requirements will be sent to you after registering\n\n  \nAbout the administrative fee* \nIn a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online.The teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \nThe admin fee goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and videos after the Teachings)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nMay all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings! \n*We also do not wish to exclude anyone from the Teachings\, so if you are not currently in a financial position to afford the admin fee\, please contact us so we can support you to attend. \nWe welcome any questions. Please feel free to contact registrar@planetdharma.com. \n \n \n \n \n \n Retreatants at Clear Sky: Lodging Fees & Covid 19 Protocols\n In addition to Dana to the Teacher\, Clear Sky Meditation Centre provides an incredible space for your retreat.  Situated on a beautiful 310-acre property in the Rocky Mountains\, the center and its karma yogis provide you nourishing daily meals and comfortable accomodation. Read more: Staying with us (Clear Sky Meditation Centre) \nPlease go to the retreat registration page for this retreat for details of the all inclusive fee for the retreat. \nCovid-19 Protocols\nOur retreats comply with current BC Covid-19 Health Orders.  Please refer to those provincial guidelines as well as the Canadian federal travel guidelines\, especially if you are planning to travel to Clear Sky Center in person. \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule\n Specific times may change (MST) \n\n\n\nRETREAT DAILY SCHEDULE\n\n\n\n\n\n\n6:30 – 7:30 AM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n\n\n\n7:30 – 8:15 AM\nBreakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n\n8:15 – 8:45 AM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n\n\n9:00 – 10:00 AM\nClass with Teachers\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n10:00 – 10:30 AM\nWalk\n\n\n\n10:30 – 11:30 AM\nGroup Practice lead by Sangha\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n11:30 – 12:30 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n12:30 – 1:30 PM\nLunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n\n\n1:30 – 3:00 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n\n\n3:00 – 4:00 PM\nGroup Practice lead by Sangha\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n4:00 – 5:30 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n\n\n\n5:30 – 7:00 PM \nDinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n\n\n7:00 – 7:30 PM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n\n\n7:30 – 8:30 PM\nGroup Practice and Q & A with Teachers\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n8:30 – beyond\nPersonal Practice & bed\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n Micro-dosing / Psychedelics\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths. Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. \nConsuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects. \nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ready to Register?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please phone 250-429-3929\, or contact bookings@clearskycenter.org. \nEarly bird registration rate for Online retreatants is available until May 3. After that the admin fee increases. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n RETREAT AT CLEAR SKY \n \n RETREAT ONLINE \n \n \n \n \n \n IN-PERSON: Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is May 11th 2024. \nONLINE: Online retreat fees increase by 20% after May 3 in order to encourage early registration\, with May 18 2024 being the final online registration deadline. URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/breathing-retreat-2024/ CATEGORIES:Retreats END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240712 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240715 DTSTAMP:20260418T072455Z CREATED:20231126T191353Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260418T072455Z UID:10000654-1720742400-1721001599@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Razor's Edge: The Dance of Absolute & Relative Truths DESCRIPTION:Razor's Edge: The Dance of Absolute & Relative Truths\n Online or In-Person | July 12-14\, 2024\n One weekend. One Teacher. Two truths… in one. Step onto the Razor’s Edge: the paradoxical and joyous dance of Absolute and Relative. It’s the only truth there is. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Razor’s Edge: The Dance of Absolute & Relative Truths\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  This course for you if: \n\nYou’re wondering how to truly transform suffering and struggle in your life.\nYou’d like to study fundamental Buddhist philosophical understandings of the nature of reality with a wisdom teacher in the Namgyal lineage.\nYou’d like to bridge the gap between meditative realizations and every day challenges. \nYou have a strong curiosity into the nature of reality. \nYou have the burning question inside of you which has led you to this webpage in the first place.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Razor’s Edge is the line between wisdom and ignorance—and it lives inside of you. A paradoxical\, joyous\, and pristinely aware place\, the edge of is finer than any other.This weekend course is a precious opportunity to study with meditation master and Namgyal lineage teacher Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan). He will share fundamental Buddhist teachings on the nature of absolute and relative truths\, and how we can best dance between\, within and amidst the two. This is a priceless chance to learn with one who has danced on the Razor’s Edge for decades\, and dedicated his life to the welfare of all beings by sharing how to do so. \nWhat You’ll Learn: How to Dance the Razor’s Edge!\n\n\nWhat is absolute truth? What is relative truth?\nWhat does the relationship between these truths have to do with you\, and your life?\nHow can you dance with and integrate these two seemingly paradoxical points of view?\nHow might you live and dwell on the “razor’s edge” of this form of wisdom and compassion?\nHow can you do this dance with others? What is your role in bringing this dance into our world?\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) \nQapel studied with the Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche from 1974 until the latter’s passing in 2003. Doug received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 1978\, and is a lineage holder in that teaching. He also received teachings from the 16th Karmapa and other Tibetan Rinpoches\, as well as from the Ven. Sayadaw U Thila Wunta and from a Master of the Western Mystery School. In addition\, Doug has undertaken numerous three-month solitary meditation retreats. \nDoug has been leading retreats\, teaching and training in universal practices of spiritual unfoldment since 1985\, helping thousands of students in numerous countries liberate themselves from suffering. His teaching also draws on contemporary psychology and science. In 2004 he co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center in the BC Rockies where he is resident teacher along with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. \nMore About Qapel | About the Lineage \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n On Absolute & Relative Truth\nAttending to tasks while remembering the light:  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What’s Expected of Me?\n\nAn open mind and heart\, and a spirit of adventure are excellent things to bring!\nIt’s human to have some apprehensions about doing something new\, meeting new people\, or going to a new place—particularly when all three happen together. We try to make this as supportive as possible.\nWhen exploring our growth edges\, it’s natural to feel uncertain and awkward. And it’s very fruitful to transform that emotional tension into creative energy by drawing on your own inner resources—such as inquiry\, going with the flow\, and self-reflection\, just a few of the many kinds of constructive engagement.\nTo maximize your retreat experience\, we ask that you refrain from reading\, using the internet\, phone or listening to music during the course.\nStudents are expected to be silent during the silent parts of the retreat\, and participate in all classes\, group meditations\, activities\, and discussions.\nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances before or during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n The Location – Clear Sky Center\n\nLocated in the BC rocky mountains\, Clear Sky offers over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature. Founded by Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, the center is home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world.\n\n\nHow to get there\, what to bring and other FAQ about Clear Sky\nOur teachings and Clear Sky operate based on the ancient tradition of dāna or generosity. As generosity is the basis upon which all spiritual practice flourishes\, we recommend that you learn more about this profound practice before you register.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Details\nTime and Location\nThe Razor’s Edge weekend will be led by Qapel Doug Duncan at Clear Sky Meditation Center in Eastern BC.  This course is offered online or in-person. \nSchedule / Class Times:  Classes will be 60-90 mins in duration\, with classes in the morning and evening and possibly the afternoon each day (Mountain Time) – the exact schedule to be confirmed. Please ensure you are available for the whole weekend to focus on the course material and attend classes live. \nOnline participants are expected to attend classes live.  We will arrange class times to be comfortable for most time zones. However we understand that some class times might occur after midnight in some regions\, if this is the case for you\, please let us know when you register.  Then we can provide a recording so you can catch up on that particular class. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nIn-Person Participants: 1) dāna to the Teacher plus 2) accomodation and meal costs for your stay Clear Sky Meditation Centre. \nOnline Participants: 1) dāna to the Teacher  2) online administration fee of $150 CAD. \nKeen Practitioner Pricing: Book now and get 10% off listed prices. Offer valid until Jun 6\, 2024. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About DānaAbout the Online Admin Fee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nThe dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able \nTypically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  \nAs we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  \nConversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. \nLearn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n In a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers\, and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online. The teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. \nThe admin fee* goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. The admin fee changes based on date of registration. \n*We also do not wish to exclude anyone from the Teachings\, so if you are not currently in a financial position to afford the admin fee\, please contact the course Registrar via registrar@planetdharma.com so we can support you to attend. \n— \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings\, and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and video later\, and Amazon cloud)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nWe welcome any questions. May all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We work hard to support the online learning experience.\n \nWe have been delivering online offerings since 2012 and are always looking for new ways to optimize your experience.\nClasses are live-streamed and some recordings are available for a certain time.\nHD cameras and professional audio equipment provide high quality video streaming.\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration\n \n \n Register for in-person retreat\n \n Register for Online \n \n \n \n \n \n Questions?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please contact the Clear Sky Retreat Manager at 250-429-3929  (phone) or at bookings@clearskycenter.org (email). \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Retreat In-Person?\n Retreating in person at a retreat center is the best way to retreat – why? \n\nYou can’t beat live interaction with the course Teachers. Being in the same space with clear beings ‘tunes’ you to more wholesome states.\nWe create a welcoming environment and follow a supportive retreat schedule\, based on decades of hosting successful retreats worldwide.\nWholesome and delicious food is provided so you don’t have to spend time cooking for yourself.\nBreath-taking and restful\, natural environment puts your body and mind at ease and resets your nervous system.\nRetreating at our center gets you out of your usual home environment and routines – they can be distracting.\nRetreating with others (your co-retreatants) is incredibly supportive and energy building.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Do Previous Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n These are ancient teachings that I feel are important to understand if someone is serious about meditation. I appreciate Qapel and Sensei’s unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these life changing practices. They explore the rich history with us and also deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \nJenai LieuPsychology student\, CanadaWorking with Qapel and Sensei at the five day hero’s journey workshop was deeply impactful and has clarified not only my deepest heart’s desire\, but what I need to overcome to manifest it. They are extraordinary facilitators with a great depth of knowledge\, wisdom and presence to share. \nKira MacDuffeeM.Ed / RCCDoing karma yoga\, I watch how everyone gains new insights.  These many “a-ha moments” makes it clear to me that this type of active dharma training is a path that brings the modern spiritual explorer alive and moves them forward. \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive\, Clear Sky Accountability OfficerQapel and Sensei have consistently been honest\, accurate and candid with me. It has sometimes taken me years to admit my self-sabotaging blind spots. Clear and radical self-honesty liberates my sticky parts. Thank you to my master teachers for helping me free up all the energy knots – especially the ones created from unconscious patterning around money\, sex and power. \nEvangelos DiavolitsisMeditation Teacher and Coach\, Four Ways to Freedom. Italy\, Canada.Qapel and Sensei are always burning calories to get you back on a path that can lead toward greater self-awareness. When I am with these two very clear individuals\, I am humbled by their dedication to others\, and understand the every-waking-moment responsibility that comes with their calling. \nPeter UjlakiFine Art Dealer\, Japan URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/absolute-relative-truths/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2024-PD-Courses-Facebook-Covers-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240906 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240923 DTSTAMP:20260404T105238Z CREATED:20230416T221404Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260404T105238Z UID:10000647-1725580800-1727049599@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Movement of the Mandala Tarot Retreat DESCRIPTION:Movement of the Mandala\n In-Person Retreat | September 6-22\, 2024\n  \nJoin us for a two-week somatic retreat that helps us weave the archetypal energies of the Tarot and Kabbalah into our lives in beautiful and healthy ways. \nIt’s creative\, it’s powerful\, it’s magic. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Movement of the Mandala: Tarot Retreat\nEmbodying principles of unfoldment through spiritual theatre.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Movement of the Mandala is a powerful embodied retreat on the Tarot’s archetypes\, inspired by the Venerable Namgyal Rinpoche’s teachings. \nThe retreat was first offered by the Venerable Namgyal Rinpoche 50 years ago at the Dharma Centre of Canada in 1974\, Qapel’s first retreat as a new student. A master of both Eastern and Western mystical tradition\, Rinpoche’s innovative course will be offered by Qapel and Catherine Sensei for the first and last time in Qapel’s lifetime. \nWhy the Tarot?\nWe’re all familiar with Eastern spiritual traditions\, but did you know the West also has a legitimate path for spiritual awakening? \nHow are the Emperor and Empress manifesting your life? Are they wise rulers or are they tyrants? Or are they living in another kingdom altogether? \nWestern archetypes are a powerful resource for spiritual awakening. They reveal and help us cultivate dormant aspects in ourselves so we may reach our highest potential. \nIn modern times\, Tarot is often mistaken as ‘woo woo’ fortune telling\, yet it has offered a profound path for spiritual awakening for hundreds of years. In fact\, the Western Mysteries was the path by which Namgyal Rinpoche awakened. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nA Somatic Retreat\nEmbody the Tarot’s principles of universal unfoldment.\nSeptember 6-22\, 2024 \nAt Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, BC\, Canada \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why this Retreat?\n \n \n \n \n \n “The Tarot represents a system of complete liberation for Westerners.” \n-Namgyal Rinpoche \nAs archetypes and meditations\, the symbolism of the Tarot is incredibly transformative. The Tarot offers a powerful\, concise path of liberation drawing on universal life experiences to invite us into deeper understanding of the mystical life. \nIn this retreat we will enact and embody the major arcana\, through spiritual somatic theatre.  This form of enriching “passion play” helps us gain a deep imprint of the tarot’s archetypal meanings\, catalytic for spiritual transformation. \nEach Tarot card contains symbolism through which transformation can occur. \nDrawing on Western archetypes\, aspects that exist within each of us\, this retreat helps us: \n\nDiscover which archetypes are stronger and weaker in our being;\nLearn how to integrate all the archetypes into our daily lives;\nUse art\, music and movement to contact the patterns of our being through sensing\, feeling and insight.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The History of the Movement of the Mandala Retreat\, as first offered by Namgyal Rinpoche\nQapel’s first retreat with his Teacher Namgyal Rinpoche was on the ‘Movement of the Mandala’ in 1974\, an embodied initiation into the Tarot’s archetypes.  We asked him to explain more about the retreat and its history.  \nPlease watch this video before applying to attend this retreat:  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Can I expect with this Retreat?\n \n \n \n \n \n The Retreat \n\nAn open mind and heart and a spirit of adventure are excellent things to bring!\nRoll up your sleeves and jump into spiritual theatre. You will be asked to prepare sets and costumes before the retreat.\nBecome deeply familiar with the 22 Tarot cards of the major arcana and their main characteristics.\nEmbark on somatic group theatre (and therapy) using the Tarot cards.\nReveal and relate deeper patterns from within our being to the major archetypes.\nExplore techniques in loosening patterns of thought and action.\nExpect long days of Western Mysteries practice and exploration.\nEnjoy the surrounding wilderness at Clear Sky Center.\nIt’s human to have some apprehensions about doing something new\, meeting new people\, or going to a new place – particularly when all three happen together. Knowing this\, we try to make our retreats as supportive as possible.\n\nThe Location – Clear Sky Center \n\nLocated in the BC Rocky Mountains\, Clear Sky offers over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature. Founded by Qapel (Doug Duncan) and Sensei (Catherine Pawasarat)\, the centre is home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world.\n\n\nClear Sky Centre FAQs\nOur teachings and Clear Sky operate based on the ancient tradition of dāna or generosity. As generosity is the basis upon which all spiritual practice flourishes\, we recommend that you learn more about this profound practice before you register.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Applications open june 4-30 th\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teachers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doug Qapel Duncan\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) and Sensei (Catherine Pawasarat) were Planet Dharma’s founding teachers. Since Qapel passed away in 2024\, Catherine Sensei is our head teacher and lineage holder. Qapel and Sensei also founded Clear Sky Meditation Center\, BC\, Canada. \nQapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 1978\, and is a lineage holder in that teaching. Known for his direct\, humourous and compassionate engagement with students\, Qapel embraces various traditions\, contemporary psychology\, and science\, to mentor all beings to a more awakened state. \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei has trained daily with Qapel (Acariya Doug Duncan) since 1998 in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine Sensei also draws on generative living and the arts. With Qapel she is co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center in the BC Rockies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nFor your Listening Pleasure: On the Tarot\n\n\n\n\nEnjoy Qapel and Sensei’s episodes on the Tarot from their podcast channel\, Dharma if you Dare: \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Do Previous Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n These are ancient teachings that I feel are important to understand if someone is serious about meditation. I appreciate Qapel and Sensei’s unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these life changing practices. They explore the rich history with us and also deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \nJenai LieuPsychology student\, CanadaWorking with Qapel and Sensei at the five day hero’s journey workshop was deeply impactful and has clarified not only my deepest heart’s desire\, but what I need to overcome to manifest it. They are extraordinary facilitators with a great depth of knowledge\, wisdom and presence to share. \nKira MacDuffeeM.Ed / RCCDoing karma yoga\, I watch how everyone gains new insights.  These many “a-ha moments” makes it clear to me that this type of active dharma training is a path that brings the modern spiritual explorer alive and moves them forward. \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive\, Clear Sky Accountability OfficerQapel and Sensei have consistently been honest\, accurate and candid with me. It has sometimes taken me years to admit my self-sabotaging blind spots. Clear and radical self-honesty liberates my sticky parts. Thank you to my master teachers for helping me free up all the energy knots – especially the ones created from unconscious patterning around money\, sex and power. \nEvangelos DiavolitsisMeditation Teacher and Coach\, Four Ways to Freedom. Italy\, Canada.Qapel and Sensei are always burning calories to get you back on a path that can lead toward greater self-awareness. When I am with these two very clear individuals\, I am humbled by their dedication to others\, and understand the every-waking-moment responsibility that comes with their calling. \nPeter UjlakiFine Art Dealer\, Japan \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Fees & Requirements\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All Retreatants: A Dāna Based Retreat\n This retreat is offered by the Teachers on the basis of dāna (generosity). \nDāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”\, and is the traditional way in which Buddhist teachings are offered.  With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. You may have come across this in the form of “pay from the heart”. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nYou will be sent a link to offer “dāna” to the teachers after registration. \nFor more information on dāna click here. \nSee below for lodging and meal costs. \n \n \n \n \n \n Lodging Fees \n In addition to Dāna to the teachers\, Clear Sky Meditation Center provides an incredible space for your retreat.  Situated on a beautiful 310-acre property in the Rocky Mountains\, the center and its karma yogis provide you nourishing daily meals and comfortable accommodation. \nPlease go to the registration page via the button below for details of the all inclusive fee for the two week retreat. \nCovid-19 Protocols\nPlease note that we are taking measures to keep us all healthy during this retreat\, including: \n\nYou must have experienced no symptoms associated with covid-19 in the past 14 days.\nYou have met and followed all BC and Canadian health regulations regarding Covid-19 and travel.\nFurther details will be posted closer to the retreat date as necessary.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Micro-dosing / Psychedelics\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths. Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. \nConsuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects. \nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Apply Now\nThis retreat is offered on an application basis. It is a pre-requisite to have attended the 2023 Kabbalah online course. \nApplications open after the afternoon Flash Retreat class on June 4th\, and close on June 30th 2023. Partcipants who attended the Kabbalah course will receive the application form by email.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  Questions?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please contact the Clear Sky Retreat Manager at 250-429-3929  (phone) or via bookings@clearskycenter.org (email). URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/tarot-movement-of-the-mandala/ CATEGORIES:Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/movement-banner.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241018 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241021 DTSTAMP:20260418T073136Z CREATED:20231126T190754Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260418T073136Z UID:10000653-1729209600-1729468799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Hamster Wheel or Heaven? The Wheel of Dependent Origination DESCRIPTION:Hamster Wheel or Heaven? The Wheel of Dependent Origination\n Online or In-Person | Oct 18-20 2024\n What makes you “you”? How does everything “you” perceive arise? Why does this matter? Together we’ll study a powerful map of consciousness: the wheel of dependent origination. This is a foundational philosophical doctrine shared by all schools of Buddhism\, recommended for students of all levels. It directly correlates to suffering\, and how to become free\, wise\, and compassionate. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Hamster Wheel or Heaven? The Wheel of Dependent Origination\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ask yourself—what makes up a human? The 12 elements of the wheel of dependent origination teach us to look at the basic building blocks of the human being. The result of this understanding? Suffering goes down. Wisdom and compassion go up. This is the power of what it is to know thyself – the heart of inter-being. \nAll schools of Buddhism share this fundamental teaching of the wheel. It is a highly recommended foundational perspective that has deep repercussions on how you see and experience your life\, the body-mind continuum\, and the world around you. \nThe focus of Buddhadharma is to become free of being subject to suffering. There is necessary suffering (sickness\, old age\, diseases\, joint pain\, babies—that which is part and parcel of living)\, and unnecessary suffering (our personal dramas\, relationship pains\, self-image). If you look at the nature of suffering\, you see how nature pushes itself forward because of suffering. The purpose of the wheel of dependent origination is to help us ask\, “What is necessary\, and what isn’t?” \nIn your life\, what is necessary\, and what isn’t?    \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This is course for you if: \n\nYou’d like deeper foundational understanding of core Buddhist philosophy.\nYou want to learn a 2000 year old science of consciousness\nYou’d like to deepen your spiritual understanding in modern language and practical applications\, with a wisdom teacher in the Namgyal lineage.\nYou want greater ability to apply your meditation insights in your daily life.\nYou want inspiration and motivation to change your life according to what is possible through conscious awareness.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Other Resources\n\nTricycle’s Buddhism for Beginners: What is Dependent Origination?\nBarre Center for Buddhist Studies: An in-depth article on Dependent Origination by Christina Feldman.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What's Expected of Me?\n\nAn open mind and heart\, and a spirit of adventure are excellent things to bring!\nIt’s human to have some apprehensions about doing something new\, meeting new people\, or going to a new place—particularly when all three happen together. We try to make this as supportive as possible.\nWhen exploring our growth edges\, it’s natural to feel uncertain and awkward. And it’s very fruitful to transform that emotional tension into creative energy by drawing on your own inner resources—such as inquiry\, going with the flow\, and self-reflection\, just a few of the many kinds of constructive engagement.\nTo maximize your retreat experience\, we ask that you refrain from reading\, using the internet\, phone or listening to music during the course.\nStudents are expected to be silent during the silent parts of the retreat\, and participate in all classes\, group meditations\, activities\, and discussions.\nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances before or during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n The Location – Clear Sky Center\n\nLocated in the BC rocky mountains\, Clear Sky offers over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature. Founded by Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, the center is home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world.\nHow to get there\, what to bring and other FAQ about Clear Sky\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Details\nLocation\nThis weekend retreat will be led by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei at Clear Sky Meditation Center in Eastern BC.  This course is offered in-person\, with an online option for people outside of the local area. \nSchedule / Class Times:\nFor onsite retreatants\, please arrive starting 3pm\, in good time for the 5pm orientation.   \n\nFri Oct 18th: Orientation 5 pm\nFri Oct 18th: Evening class 7 pm\nSat Oct 19th: Classes/or sits with Sensei: 8 am\, 2 pm\, 7 pm\nSun Oct 20th: Classes/or sits with Sensei: 8 am\, 2 pm\nSun Oct 20th: Formal end of retreat 5 pm.\n\nClasses will be 60-90 mins in duration (Mountain Time). \nPlease ensure you are available for the whole weekend to focus on the course material and attend classes live. \nOnline participants are expected to attend classes live.  We will arrange class times to be comfortable for most time zones. However we understand that some class times might occur after midnight in some regions\, if this is the case for you\, please let us know when you register.  Then we can provide a recording so you can catch up on that particular class. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nIn-Person Participants: 1) dāna to the Teacher plus 2) accomodation and meal costs for your stay Clear Sky Meditation Centre. \nOnline Participants: 1) dāna to the Teacher  2) online administration fee of $150 CAD. \nKeen practitioner pricing: 10% savings on all fees available until September 13th\, 2024. \nImportant: The last day to register is one week prior to the retreat start date. Please register early. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n About DānaAbout the Online Admin Fee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nThe dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds and it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able. \nTypically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course. \nAs we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us. \nConversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. \nWe’re delighted to share that we created a short online course so that you can learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n In a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers\, and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online. The teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. \nThe admin fee* goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. The admin fee changes based on date of registration. \n*We also do not wish to exclude anyone from the Teachings\, so if you are not currently in a financial position to afford the admin fee\, please contact the course Registrar via registrar@planetdharma.com so we can support you to attend. \n— \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings\, and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and video later\, and Amazon cloud)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nWe welcome any questions. May all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We work hard to support the online learning experience.\n \nWe have been delivering online offerings since 2012 and are always looking for new ways to optimize your experience.\nClasses are live-streamed and some recordings are available for a certain time.\nHD cameras and professional audio equipment provide high quality video streaming.\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Questions?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please contact the Clear Sky Retreat Manager at 250-429-3929  (phone) or at bookings@clearskycenter.org (email). \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration\n \n \n Register for in-person \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n Important: Please register early so the Teacher and our team of karma yogis can plan for the retreat. The last day to register is one week prior to the retreat start date.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Retreat In-Person?\n Retreating in person at a retreat center is the best way to retreat – why? \n\nYou can’t beat live interaction with the course Teachers. Being in the same space with clear beings ‘tunes’ you to more wholesome states.\nWe create a welcoming environment and follow a supportive retreat schedule\, based on decades of hosting successful retreats worldwide.\nWholesome and delicious food is provided so you don’t have to spend time cooking for yourself.\nBreath-taking and restful\, natural environment puts your body and mind at ease and resets your nervous system.\nRetreating at our center gets you out of your usual home environment and routines – they can be distracting.\nRetreating with others (your co-retreatants) is incredibly supportive and energy building.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Do Previous Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n These are ancient teachings that I feel are important to understand if someone is serious about meditation. I appreciate Qapel and Sensei’s unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these life changing practices. They explore the rich history with us and also deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \nJenai LieuPsychology student\, CanadaWorking with Qapel and Sensei at the five day hero’s journey workshop was deeply impactful and has clarified not only my deepest heart’s desire\, but what I need to overcome to manifest it. They are extraordinary facilitators with a great depth of knowledge\, wisdom and presence to share. \nKira MacDuffeeM.Ed / RCCDoing karma yoga\, I watch how everyone gains new insights.  These many “a-ha moments” makes it clear to me that this type of active dharma training is a path that brings the modern spiritual explorer alive and moves them forward. \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive\, Clear Sky Accountability OfficerQapel and Sensei have consistently been honest\, accurate and candid with me. It has sometimes taken me years to admit my self-sabotaging blind spots. Clear and radical self-honesty liberates my sticky parts. Thank you to my master teachers for helping me free up all the energy knots – especially the ones created from unconscious patterning around money\, sex and power. \nEvangelos DiavolitsisMeditation Teacher and Coach\, Four Ways to Freedom. Italy\, Canada.Qapel and Sensei are always burning calories to get you back on a path that can lead toward greater self-awareness. When I am with these two very clear individuals\, I am humbled by their dedication to others\, and understand the every-waking-moment responsibility that comes with their calling. \nPeter UjlakiFine Art Dealer\, Japan URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/hamster-heaven-dependent-origination/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241222 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250105 DTSTAMP:20251128T035905Z CREATED:20241117T233826Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251128T035905Z UID:10000664-1734825600-1736035199@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Sangha Christmas and Foundation Work 2024 DESCRIPTION:Foundation Work & Sangha Retreat\n with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\n Two weeks: Dec 22 – Jan 4\, 2025One week: Dec 22 – Dec 28\, 2024 | Dec 28 – Jan 4\, 2025 \nJoin us this holiday season for two weeks of Teachings with Sensei\, time with Sangha\, and an eight-day Foundation Work retreat. \nNote: This retreat is open to existing Sangha only. Prerequisite: In the past two-years\, you have attended at least one in-person retreat with Catherine Sensei. \n Registration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Foundation Work & Sangha Retreat\nThe best gift that we can give our Teacher is ‘doing the work.’ \nIn light of Qapel’s passing\, Catherine Sensei had the beautiful idea of spending this holiday season working on our Foundation Practice together in community. \nAlready finished your Foundation work? No problem! You’re welcome to use this time to focus on your current practice. \nThe retreat also includes an End of Life Celebration for Qapel\, a New Year’s Celebration and some days enjoying time in community.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule\nHere is our schedule (some details may be adjusted slightly). \nSunday\, Dec. 22: Main arrival day \nMonday\, Dec. 23: Community Sangha Time \nTuesday\, Dec. 24: Community Sangha Time & End of Life Celebration \nWednesday\, Dec. 25 – Saturday\, Dec. 28: Foundation Practice \nSaturday\, Dec 28: Optional Arrival or Departure Day (everyone staying continues with Foundation Practice) \nSunday\, Dec. 29- Wednesday\, Jan 1: Foundation Practice \nThursday\, Jan. 2: Community Sangha Time & New Year’s Celebration \nFriday\, Jan. 3: Community Sangha Time \nSaturday\, Jan. 4: Main Departure Day\n \n \n \n \n \n Registration\n \n 2-week (Dec 22 - Jan 4)\n \n One-week (Dec 22 - 28)\n \n One-week (Dec 28 - Jan 4)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What’s Expected of Me?\n\nAn open mind and heart\, and a spirit of adventure are excellent things to bring!\nIt’s human to have some apprehensions about doing something new\, meeting new people\, or going to a new place. Particularly when all three happen together. We try to make this as supportive as possible.\nWhen exploring our growth edges\, it’s natural to feel uncertain and awkward. And it’s very fruitful to transform that emotional tension into creative energy by drawing on your own inner resources – such as inquiry\, going with the flow\, and self-reflection\, just a few of the many kinds of constructive engagement.\nTo maximize your retreat experience\, we ask that you refrain from reading\, using the internet\, phone or listening to music during the course.\nStudents are expected to be silent during the silent parts of the retreat\, and participate in all classes\, group meditations\, activities\, and discussions.\nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n The Location – Clear Sky Center\n\nLocated in the BC rocky mountains\, Clear Sky offers over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature. Founded by Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, the center is home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world.\nHow to get there\, what to bring and other FAQ about Clear Sky\nOur teachings and Clear Sky operate based on the ancient tradition of dāna or generosity. As generosity is the basis upon which all spiritual practice flourishes\, we recommend that you learn more about this profound practice before you register. URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/foundation-work-sangha-retreat-2024/ CATEGORIES:Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sangha-Christmas-Retreat-Blank-e1731883475653.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250321 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250324 DTSTAMP:20260325T114806Z CREATED:20240630T234658Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T114806Z UID:10000660-1742515200-1742774399@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Dharma in the Stars: Integrating Saturn DESCRIPTION:Dharma in the Stars: Integrating Saturn\n Online or In-Person | March 21-23\, 2025\n As spiritual explorers\, we want breakthroughs. We want liberation\, freedom\, and the ability to manifest our most profound vision for this lifetime. And ironically\, the only way to bring these spiritual aspirations to fruition—and to break away from our timeworn\, “stuck” patterns—is to embrace discipline\, which builds the supporting structures for breakthrough. Astrologically\, this means working with Saturn. Join Catherine Sensei\, a wisdom teacher who has developed AstroDharma as a tool for transformation\, in a weekend ripe for life-altering insights. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dharma in the Stars:  Integrating Saturn\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This course for you if: \n\nYou’d like to study an astrological Dharmic framework for spiritual understanding with a wisdom teacher in the Namgyal lineage.\nYou’d like to explore where you need to integrate discipline—perhaps where you are still rebelling—and learn to face reality\, karma\, and responsibility head on.\nYou’d like to transform blocks in your life by leveraging strengths and talents responsibly.\nYou’d like greater clues into how to put in the “hard but rewarding work” that empowers you to construct a life that lets you manifest your full potential.\nYou’d like to learn more about the relationship between our karma\, our actions\, and our life circumstances. \nYou’d like insights into how you can best connect with awakening states in a grounded way.\nYou want to understand the patterns of others\, as well as your own\, to be a more skilled and compassionate being in the world.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n As spiritual explorers\, we can lean on the idealized notion of being a “free spirit.” This aspiration can lead to chafing around boundaries and authority\, two of the hallmarks of Saturn. It’s easy to project these qualities onto someone or something else\, as our disowned shadow. Integrating these qualities in ourselves is key to true spiritual growth. Drawing on AstroDharma as a resource can help us get there.  \nHistorically\, Saturn was associated with the Grim Reaper or Father Time\, and it’s still known as the Lord of Karma. Wherever we have Saturn in our natal astrological chart\, we are likely to experience restrictions or obstacles. Integrating our Saturn involves learning to dismantle these constraints\, and upcycling the resources thereby acquired as foundations upon which to build the rest of our lives. In this way\, we begin to participate in the conscious shaping of our karma. \nThe planet Saturn is the doorway to working consciously with more transpersonal and universal energies. After all\, it is the gatekeeper from the personal inner planets to the transpersonal or generational outer planets. In AstroDharma\, the outer planets—Uranus\, Neptune\, and Pluto—offer the transformative energy we need for breakthroughs\, through their mighty forces of revolution\, dissolution\, and destruction\, respectively. Accessing and working consciously with these powerful energies requires discipline and self-mastery: in other words\, integration (vs. projection) of Saturn. An untrained\, undisciplined warrior cannot navigate these stormy forces of change. Instead\, karmic tempests repeatedly knock us sideways. Saturn’s authority and responsibility are the keys to breaking through the locks of our conditioned karma to our greater potential—and rising to the challenge of our total transformation. \nIn other words\, we must integrate Saturn to become what we truly want to be.\nIn AstroDharma\, we refer to our North Node as our “Dharma\,” our Dharmic path. Learning to manifest our North Node is the most challenging path we can undertake because it involves swimming upstream against the heavy current of our South Node’s familiar and habitual Karma. However\, we cannot work with our North Node\, our true potential\, unless we work with Saturn. \nMastery requires incredible discipline. An Olympic figure skater lands that quadruple axle on the ice because they’ve invested thousands of training hours towards achieving this potential.  \nOver the course\, we will show you how to examine your natal chart\, and look at participants’ charts together\, focusing on Saturn\, its ruler\, Capricorn\, and the associated 10th house. We also encourage you to bring burning questions arising from your life—particularly related to challenges around blocks and authority themes—so we can study how they show up in your chart astrolodharmically. Think about specific questions which will be of particular benefit to you\, and which will help you towards being of benefit to others. \nFor those attending in person\, Catherine Sensei will lead us in somatic AstroDharma mandalas to embody our Saturn together. These mandalas can be a compelling\, visceral experience. \n What You’ll Learn:  \n\nA review of AstroDharma and how it is unique.\nHow to examine and map your own astrological natal chart’s placements\, particularly Saturn\, its ruler\, Capricorn\, and the related 10th house.\nWhat happens with Saturn\, Capricorn\, and the 10th house? Why are they considered difficult? How can we access their potential wisdom and mastery?\nTools for recognizing and working with reality as it is\, mapping karma and potential. \nHow to work with obstacles\, authority\, and discipline\, toward the growth of your greater potential.\n\nAbout AstroDharma \n“AstroDharma” is what Catherine Pawasarat Sensei calls her unique synthesis of Buddhist teachings on spiritual awakening (Dharma) and transpersonal Western astrology\, based on the teachings of Carl Jung. \nThese two powerful tools help us better understand ourselves and the patterns we manifest in our lives. The more we know about ourselves\, the more choices we have. Then\, we can make better choices so that we may lead healthier\, better-integrated lives. Furthermore\, we can also more deeply understand the patterns of those around us\, and support the potential in others\, which is key to Buddhist practitioners’ bodhisattva vow. \nSaturn relates to what we’d like to manifest in the world\, the areas of life we’d like to master and teach to others. It’s a rare and significant achievement to integrate both external authority and our inner tyrant into self-discipline and skilled judgment. Working with our Saturn\, over time and with conscious effort\, we gradually learn to take responsibility for shaping our own karma. This is easier said than done. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why AstroDharma?\nBuddhist Dharma and Western Astrology are powerful systems that can be applied to help us better understand ourselves and recognize the archetypal patterns in our lives. The invitation to “Know Thyself” remains at the core of Western philosophy and the Buddhist meditation system offers us a map of consciousness that liberates us from identifying with a literal\, fixed self. \nMany of us in the West are raised to celebrate the individual self – to be creative\, get in touch with ourselves\, find our unique path\, and explore why we are here on this planet. Buddhist Dharma leaps over personalizations by instructing us that there is no inherent self\, and that we must realize this to find spiritual awakening and liberation from suffering. \nFor many of us that’s a big leap. On the way\, we may miss valuable lessons about how we may compassionately show up in the world as unique individuals. The practice of AstroDharma is a way to help us bridge two systems. Transpersonal Western astrology can reveal individual or personal patterns and influences. We get a window into the energies\, the pushes and pulls\, of the psyche. Dharma expands the view beyond self\, into a path of service to community\, for the benefit of all beings. Over time\, with growing confidence and awareness\, we can transcend our natal charts\, and awaken. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bonus Gift for Course Participants\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Online AstroDharma Course INCLUDED\nCatherine Sensei also offers an online Intro to AstroDharma course which you will be able to access at the end of this course. This will help you continue your studies. The course will be available upon request to participants who complete the retreat.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  \nA Taste of the Course\nSensei offers a 27 minute introduction to Women in Buddhism. You can watch it on YouTube:  \n \nOr listen to it on the Dharma If You Dare podcast (below or wherever you find your podcasts): \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Details\nTime and Location\nDharma in the Stars: Integrating Saturn will be led by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei at Clear Sky Meditation Center in Eastern BC.  This course is offered in-person or online. Retreating at Clear Sky is encouraged in order to participate in the in-person only somatic AstroDharma mandala work. In-person at Clear Sky is always a more grounded\, supportive\, communal experience. \nSchedule / Class Times: All listed in Mountain Daylight Time (MDT)\, and will be 60-90 minutes in duration.  Please clear your schedule for the entire weekend to focus on this work. The following class times are approximate: \n\nFriday 7pm (please arrive on-site by 3pm at the latest)\nSaturday 9am\, 2pm\, and in-person somatic work at 7pm\nSunday 9am\, 2pm\, and in-person somatic work at 4pm\n\nOnline participants are expected to attend classes live.  We have arranged class times to be comfortable for most time zones. However we understand that some class times might occur after midnight in some regions; if this is the case for you\, please let us know when you register. We can provide a recording so you can catch up on that particular class if it occurs in the middle of the night for you. \nWhat you will need: Your astrology chart (based on your time of birth or by dowsing). More details will be given upon registration. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nIn-Person Participants:1) dāna to the Teacher\,2) accommodation and meal costs for your stay Clear Sky Meditation Centre. \n\nPrivate Cabin – CAD $471.00\nShared Room – CAD $371.00\n\nKeen Practitioner Pricing: Book now and get 10% off listed prices. Offer valid until Feb 14\, 2025. \nOnline Participants:1) dāna to the Teacher\,2) online administration fee of $170 CAD. \nKeen Practitioner Pricing: Book now and get 5% off listed prices. Offer valid until Feb 14\, 2025 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About DānaAbout the Online Admin Fee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart.” Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity.” With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nThe Dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able. \nTypically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course. \nAs we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us. \nConversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. \nLearn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n In a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers\, and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online. The teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. \nThe admin fee* goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. The admin fee changes based on date of registration. \n*We also do not wish to exclude anyone from the Teachings\, so if you are not currently in a financial position to afford the admin fee\, please contact the course Registrar via registrar@planetdharma.com so we can support you to attend. \n— \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings\, and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and video later\, and Amazon cloud)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nWe welcome any questions. May all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration\nIMPORTANT: Onsite retreatants: Register early as places on the retreat are limited.(Register for in-person by March 14\, 2025\, assuming space is still available.)    \n Online retreatants\, please register as early as possible so there is time to prepare your charts. (Register for online by March 14\, 2025.) \n  \n \n Register for in-person retreat \n \n Register for Online \n \n \n \n \n \n Questions?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please contact the Clear Sky Retreat Manager at 250-429-3929  (phone) or at bookings@clearskycenter.org (email). \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Retreat In-Person?\n Retreating in person at a retreat center is the best way to retreat – why? \n\nYou can’t beat live interaction with the course Teachers. Being in the same space with clear beings ‘tunes’ you to more wholesome states.\nWe create a welcoming environment and follow a supportive retreat schedule\, based on decades of hosting successful retreats worldwide.\nWholesome and delicious food is provided so you don’t have to spend time cooking for yourself.\nBreath-taking and restful\, natural environment puts your body and mind at ease and resets your nervous system.\nRetreating at our center gets you out of your usual home environment and routines – they can be distracting.\nRetreating with others (your co-retreatants) is incredibly supportive and energy building.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We work hard to support the online learning experience.\n \nWe have been delivering online offerings since 2012 and are always looking for new ways to optimize your experience.\nClasses are live-streamed and some recordings are available for a certain time.\nHD cameras and professional audio equipment provide high quality video streaming.\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Do Previous Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n These are ancient teachings that I feel are important to understand if someone is serious about meditation. I appreciate Qapel and Sensei’s unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these life changing practices. They explore the rich history with us and also deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \nJenai LieuPsychology student\, CanadaWorking with Qapel and Sensei at the five day hero’s journey workshop was deeply impactful and has clarified not only my deepest heart’s desire\, but what I need to overcome to manifest it. They are extraordinary facilitators with a great depth of knowledge\, wisdom and presence to share. \nKira MacDuffeeM.Ed / RCCDoing karma yoga\, I watch how everyone gains new insights.  These many “a-ha moments” makes it clear to me that this type of active dharma training is a path that brings the modern spiritual explorer alive and moves them forward. \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive\, Clear Sky Accountability OfficerQapel and Sensei have consistently been honest\, accurate and candid with me. It has sometimes taken me years to admit my self-sabotaging blind spots. Clear and radical self-honesty liberates my sticky parts. Thank you to my master teachers for helping me free up all the energy knots – especially the ones created from unconscious patterning around money\, sex and power. \nEvangelos DiavolitsisMeditation Teacher and Coach\, Four Ways to Freedom. Italy\, Canada.Qapel and Sensei are always burning calories to get you back on a path that can lead toward greater self-awareness. When I am with these two very clear individuals\, I am humbled by their dedication to others\, and understand the every-waking-moment responsibility that comes with their calling. \nPeter UjlakiFine Art Dealer\, Japan \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Free AstroDharma Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Free AstroDharma Resources\n We’d like to gift you three AstroDharma resources that we’ve found very helpful. Subscribe to get the following tools\, direct to your inbox: \n\nAstroDharma Reference Chart (Handy printable guide)\nThe 3 Most Important Parts of Your Chart (Video)\nAstroDharma and Relationships (Video)\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n How We Use AstroDharma\n For spiritual seekers looking to grow\, the unique combination of Buddhism and Transpersonal Astrology speed us up on our spiritual path. \nAt our meditation centre\, we use Western astrology alongside Buddhist philosophy and meditation practice.  This helps our students transform their challenges more effectively. \nThere are five key aspects of AstroDharma study:1. Understand how to read your own astrological birth chart.2. Harness and develop its positive elements wisely.3. Recognize and overcome elements that may be out-of-balance.4. Use this knowledge to redirect your energy into more effective patterns of living.5. Use meditation\, and ideally work with teachers and a spiritual community\, to go deeper and fully investigate and liberate the subtle patterns and conditioning. \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n Teacher Bio\n Catherine Pawasarat \nSince the early 2000s Catherine has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Doug Duncan Sensei and on her own. In addition to Astrology and Buddhist philosophy and their applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \nCatherine is from a lineage of spiritual awakening that values the best of Eastern and Western philosophy. Her partner Doug Duncan Sensei and their teacher Namgyal Rinpoche excel in teaching both methods. This is an ideal training for Westerners\, and an evolution of traditional teachings for the modern seeker. \nIn addition to Planet Dharma and Clear Sky\, her website GionFestival.org shares her ground-breaking work on the spiritual traditions and sustainability of Kyoto’s 1100-year-old Gion Festival.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Free AstroDharma Resources – Join our Community\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AstroDharma is a profound and vast study. Join our Planet Dharma newsletter to get a handy AstroDharma one-page reference guide and an introductory video to help you get oriented\, as well as periodic updates and teachings from Planet Dharma.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n X/TwitterThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name*\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Email*\n \n \n Start Now \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Once you click please wait momentarily. URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/astrodharma-and-integrating-saturn-course/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/AstroDharma-Background-3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250613 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250623 DTSTAMP:20260927T174802Z CREATED:20240725T232035Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T174802Z UID:10000661-1749772800-1750636799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Vipassana Meditation Retreat 2025 DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat\n with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | June 13 - 22 \n   \nStudy sensation\, the breath\, body\, and mind. Join Catherine Pawasarat Sensei in an eight-day Vipassana meditation retreat\, a practice suitable whether you are a newbie or seasoned meditator\, or have always wanted to do a longer retreat. We will practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Let a fresh movement come into your spiritual unfoldment. Break down the rigidity of view in reference to breath and states of mind and go for more of a sense of union… \nCome to a correct relationship with body in the body\, feelings in the feelings\, mind states in the mind states\, and phenomena in phenomena: these four categories are seen for what they are\, and not subject to unaware projections.\n Namgyal Rinpoche \n On Meditation Retreat practice with the Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta\, in Body\, Speech & Mind \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience\nEight Day Meditation Retreat\n\nAt this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. \nIf you have a background in Vipassana retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. \nAn online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n\nWhile we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. \nAnother of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is Namgyal Rinpoche’s book Body\, Speech\, Mind. In it\, Rinpoche teaches on the Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta\, an incredibly powerful methodology of the Buddha’s four foundations of mindfulness: body\, feeling\, mind\, and mental objects. It is a guide to liberation. \nThis simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Did Last Year’s Breathing Retreat Meditators Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The anapanasati sutta created a deep\, deep experience for me. I was finally able to understand the 16 steps and the 4 tetrads much much better. It’s a whole new world. \nCheryl Bate Clinical Counsellor\, Private Practise\, Whistler\, BCI enjoyed reconnecting with my body\, with nature and with joyful memories during the retreat. Some of this was inspired through the breathing practice\, and some through searching for moments of piti which we could easily connect to. There was an easing during the retreat\, as well as some moments of deep connection and understanding. This time\, it was hearing spaciousness explained in a different way. \nZoe MooresTranslator\, trainer\, researcherThe breathing retreat was fantastic for me on so many levels! As my first retreat\, it really taught how me to deepen my budding meditation practice. Catherine Sensei is warm\, knowledgeable and led a wonderful course. \nJames StewartBuilding DesignerSensei\, fresh from a 3 month retreat\, gave beautiful\, grounded and profound teachings on breathing practice. The retreat worked seamlessly between those of us with the fortune to be in person\, and those joining online. Felt I could go very deep over the ten days with a transformative combination of a great teacher\, a deep practice\, a sincere group of co-retreatants\, and 310 acres in the mountains! \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What’s Expected of Me?\n\nAn open mind and heart\, and a spirit of adventure are excellent things to bring!\nIt’s human to have some apprehensions about doing something new\, meeting new people\, or going to a new place. Particularly when all three happen together. We try to make this as supportive as possible.\nWhen exploring our growth edges\, it’s natural to feel uncertain and awkward. And it’s very fruitful to transform that emotional tension into creative energy by drawing on your own inner resources – such as inquiry\, going with the flow\, and self-reflection\, just a few of the many kinds of constructive engagement.\nTo maximize your retreat experience\, we ask that you refrain from reading\, using the internet\, phone or listening to music during the course.\nStudents are expected to be silent during the silent parts of the retreat\, and participate in all classes\, group meditations\, activities\, and discussions.\nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n The Location – Clear Sky Center\n\nLocated in the BC rocky mountains\, Clear Sky offers over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature. Founded by Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, the center is home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world.\nHow to get there\, what to bring and other FAQ about Clear Sky\nOur teachings and Clear Sky operate based on the ancient tradition of dāna or generosity. As generosity is the basis upon which all spiritual practice flourishes\, we recommend that you learn more about this profound practice before you register.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meditation Groups\nThe power of continued community meditation practice:\nFollowing Catherine Sensei’s excellent Breathing retreat at Clear Sky and online in June 2022\, a group of students from Dharma Europe and Japan started a morning Zoom meeting to help continue the practice. Meeting at 8am UK time six days a week\, we take turns to lead/hold space – usually with a reading\, sometimes an exercise\, we meditate on the breath for 45 minutes and then share our experiences. The group has grown to include more European Sangha as well as Movement Shiatsu practitioners who didn’t attend the retreat but are committed to developing their practice.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s great to have the contact of the group – we learn so much from experiencing how the different parts of ourselves – individually and as a group perceive and receive the (phenomenal) world.  \n—Jonathan Clifford\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The daily contact with awakening beings uplifts and encourages me in a practice that has been very solitary for me for many years.  The daily discipline reminds me of a monastic order\, where the task of gathering at an appointed hour to sit in silence together IS a practice in itself. \n—Renata Drtina\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The morning sits and Anapanasati practice are an opportunity to explore and build sangha in a different way and for us to strengthen and deepen our practice together. \n—Zoe Moores\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Anapanasati group is an anchor – both to steady practice and being part of a group.  It helps me to be in contact when I don’t feel like it.  To practice speaking  in front of a group even when it’s not comfortable.  To practice leading a group.  And silently this group has reinforced and supported daily practice and helped me to experience contact with the experience of breathing. \n—Brigid Maclachlan\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Fees & Requirements\n \n \n \n \n \n Arrivals and Departures\nFor those traveling short distances\, we recommend coming a day early\, but at the latest\, please arrive by 3pm on June 13.  For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive at least 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat. Orientation begins after dinner on June 13. The first class is held on Saturday morning\, June 14. \nThere will be a final morning class and closing circle\, as well as cleaning our rooms on Sunday June 22. Departures will begin after this\, approximately 11am.  We also recommend adding an extra night or two to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All Retreatants: A Dāna Based Retreat\n This retreat is offered on the basis of dāna (generosity). \nDāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”\, and is the traditional way in which Buddhist teachings are offered.  With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. You may have come across this in the form of “pay from the heart”. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nYou will be sent a link to offer “dana” to the teachers after registration. \nFor more information on dāna click here.\n \n \n \n \n \n For Online Retreatants: Admin Fees & Requirements\n In order to bring you this retreat at home\, there is an additional admin fee* of $350 CAD\, with registration at least three weeks or more before the retreat.  Registrations three weeks or less from the the retreat start date will incur a $450 admin fee.The admin fee is to cover the costs of running these online courses – for equipment and software to provide you the teachings online. \nIf you are taking this retreat online\, we require that you devote your full attention to the retreat for the entire week. \nRequirements include: \n\nBlock out the retreat duration and be focused on the retreat for this entire period\, using this time and participating in the retreat as if you were at Clear Sky in person.  This includes a rigorous\, full\, daily meditation schedule.\nParticipate in all of the daily classes and group practices via online streaming.\nSet up a quiet space or location where you can focus on the Meditation Retreat\, and not need to engage in conversation or work with others.\nPut away your phone\, digital devices and other distractions.\nIf there are enough people in the same time zone as you\, you could also make a cohort to meet to do a group practice throughout the retreat.\nNote: full details/ requirements will be sent to you after registering\n\n  \nAbout the administrative fee* \nIn a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online.\nThe teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \nThe admin fee goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and videos after the Teachings)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nMay all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings! \n*We also do not wish to exclude anyone from the Teachings\, so if you are not currently in a financial position to afford the admin fee\, please contact us so we can support you to attend. \nWe welcome any questions. Please feel free to contact registrar@planetdharma.com.\n \n \n \n \n \n Retreatants at Clear Sky: Lodging Fees & Covid 19 Protocols\n In addition to Dana to the Teacher\, Clear Sky Meditation Centre provides an incredible space for your retreat.  Situated on a beautiful 310-acre property in the Rocky Mountains\, the center and its karma yogis provide you nourishing daily meals and comfortable accomodation. Read more: Staying with us (Clear Sky Meditation Centre) \nPlease go to the retreat registration page for this retreat for details of the all inclusive fee for the retreat. \nCovid-19 Protocols\nOur retreats comply with current BC Covid-19 Health Orders.  Please refer to those provincial guidelines as well as the Canadian federal travel guidelines\, especially if you are planning to travel to Clear Sky Center in person.\n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule\n Specific times may change (MST) \n\n\n\nRETREAT DAILY SCHEDULE\n\n\n\n\n\n\n6:30 – 7:30 AM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n7:30 – 8:15 AM\nBreakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n8:15 – 8:45 AM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n9:00 – 10:00 AM\nClass with Teachers\n\n\n10:00 – 10:30 AM\nWalk\n\n\n10:30 – 11:30 AM\nGroup Practice lead by Sangha\n\n\n11:30 – 12:30 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n12:30 – 1:30 PM\nLunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n1:30 – 3:00 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n3:00 – 4:00 PM\nGroup Practice lead by Sangha\n\n\n4:00 – 5:30 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n5:30 – 7:00 PM \nDinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n7:00 – 7:30 PM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n7:30 – 8:30 PM\nGroup Practice and Q & A with Teachers\n\n\n8:30 – beyond\nPersonal Practice & bed\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Micro-dosing / Psychedelics\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths. Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. \nConsuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects. \nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \, Registration Deadlines:\nIN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until April 13\, 2025. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is May 30 2025. \nONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until Apr 20\, 2025. June 6\, 2025 is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ready to Register?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please phone 250-429-3929\, or contact bookings@clearskycenter.org. \n \n In-person\n \n RETREAT ONLINE\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Guided Meditation: Listen Now\n\n  \nSign up to receive a free guided meditation and other Dharma updates by subscribing to Planet Dharma.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CompanyThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.First Name*Last Name (Optional)Email Address*\n \n Sign-up Location\n Yes Please \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/vipassana-meditation-retreat-2025/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/2025-PD-Courses-Eventbrite-Banners.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250711 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250714 DTSTAMP:20251125T025049Z CREATED:20250526T020016Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251125T025049Z UID:10000668-1752192000-1752451199@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:As the Spirit Moves 2025 DESCRIPTION:As the Spirit Moves\n Online or In-Person | July 11-13\, 2025\n Expect the unexpected! How will the Spirit move? This weekend is an offering of raw Dharma from the Teacher. You get to show up and experience epic Dharmic teachings\, without a particular predetermined subject. Be ready for anything and everything Dharma. Unforeseen\, undetermined\, unregulated. No seatbelts allowed. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n As the Spirit Moves\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the past\, people “showed up” for Dharma teachings\, regardless of topic. The teachings given were inspired by the energy of the people there. Qapel\, one of our founding teachers\, used to say that he would go to a class of his Teacher\, Namgyal Rinpoche\, even if he were just reading a phone book! The Spirit of Dharma… it moves! \nSo\, are you ready to join Catherine Pawasarat Sensei for an eclectic weekend of “old school” style Dharma teachings? Wisdom invites you to learn on the path of riding the dragon\, come what may. \nAs you are well aware\, life is a great big journey into the unknown\, a Dharmic odyssey. This weekend is the same! Come to soak in Dharmic teachings from Catherine Sensei\, have fun\, and learn more about how to be the kind of being you want to be. As Bodhisattvas\, we keep on diving into learning how to be of service and help alleviate the suffering of beings. It’s an amazing ride\, and every opportunity to dive into the depth of Dharma is a precious one. How do we know what we need to hear—and when we hear it\, will we listen? There’s only one way to find out. \nTake a leap of faith. Join the Teacher. Join the spirit of integral evolution. We dare you! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Details\nTime and Location\nAs the Spirit Moves will be led by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei at Clear Sky Meditation Center in Eastern BC.  This course is offered in-person with an online option for those not in Western Canada. \nSchedule / Class Times:  Classes will be 60-90 mins in duration\, with classes in the morning and evening and possibly the afternoon each day (Mountain Time) – the exact schedule to be confirmed. Please ensure you are available for the whole weekend to focus on the course material and attend classes live. \nOnline participants are expected to attend classes live.  We will arrange class times to be comfortable for most time zones. However we understand that some class times might occur after midnight in some regions\, if this is the case for you\, please let us know when you register.  Then we can provide a recording so you can catch up on that particular class. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nIn-Person Participants: 1) dāna to the Teacher plus 2) accomodation and meal costs for your stay Clear Sky Meditation Centre. \nOnline Participants: 1) dāna to the Teacher  2) online administration fee of $150 CAD. \nKeen Practitioner Pricing: Book now and get 10% off listed prices. Offer valid until June 6\, 2025. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About DānaAbout the Online Admin Fee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nThe dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able \nTypically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  \nAs we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  \nConversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. \nLearn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n In a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers\, and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online. The teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. \nThe admin fee* goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. The admin fee changes based on date of registration. \n*We also do not wish to exclude anyone from the Teachings\, so if you are not currently in a financial position to afford the admin fee\, please contact the course Registrar via registrar@planetdharma.com so we can support you to attend. \n— \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings\, and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and video later\, and Amazon cloud)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nWe welcome any questions. May all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration\nImportant: Please register early. The Registration deadline is July 4th\, 2025. \n \n In Person Registration \n \n Online Registration \n \n \n \n \n \n Questions?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please contact the Clear Sky Retreat Manager at 250-429-3929  (phone) or at bookings@clearskycenter.org (email). \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Retreat In-Person?\n Retreating in person at a retreat center is the best way to retreat – why? \n\nYou can’t beat live interaction with the course Teachers. Being in the same space with clear beings ‘tunes’ you to more wholesome states.\nWe create a welcoming environment and follow a supportive retreat schedule\, based on decades of hosting successful retreats worldwide.\nWholesome and delicious food is provided so you don’t have to spend time cooking for yourself.\nBreath-taking and restful\, natural environment puts your body and mind at ease and resets your nervous system.\nRetreating at our center gets you out of your usual home environment and routines – they can be distracting.\nRetreating with others (your co-retreatants) is incredibly supportive and energy building.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We work hard to support the online learning experience.\n \nWe have been delivering online offerings since 2012 and are always looking for new ways to optimize your experience.\nClasses are live-streamed and some recordings are available for a certain time.\nHD cameras and professional audio equipment provide high quality video streaming.\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Do Previous Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n These are ancient teachings that I feel are important to understand if someone is serious about meditation. I appreciate Qapel and Sensei’s unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these life changing practices. They explore the rich history with us and also deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \nJenai LieuPsychology student\, CanadaWorking with Qapel and Sensei at the five day hero’s journey workshop was deeply impactful and has clarified not only my deepest heart’s desire\, but what I need to overcome to manifest it. They are extraordinary facilitators with a great depth of knowledge\, wisdom and presence to share. \nKira MacDuffeeM.Ed / RCCDoing karma yoga\, I watch how everyone gains new insights.  These many “a-ha moments” makes it clear to me that this type of active dharma training is a path that brings the modern spiritual explorer alive and moves them forward. \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive\, Clear Sky Accountability OfficerQapel and Sensei have consistently been honest\, accurate and candid with me. It has sometimes taken me years to admit my self-sabotaging blind spots. Clear and radical self-honesty liberates my sticky parts. Thank you to my master teachers for helping me free up all the energy knots – especially the ones created from unconscious patterning around money\, sex and power. \nEvangelos DiavolitsisMeditation Teacher and Coach\, Four Ways to Freedom. Italy\, Canada.Qapel and Sensei are always burning calories to get you back on a path that can lead toward greater self-awareness. When I am with these two very clear individuals\, I am humbled by their dedication to others\, and understand the every-waking-moment responsibility that comes with their calling. \nPeter UjlakiFine Art Dealer\, Japan URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/as-the-spirit-moves-2025/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/GuruRimpoche.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251004 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251006 DTSTAMP:20251103T095928Z CREATED:20250818T031824Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251103T095928Z UID:10000671-1759536000-1759708799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Qapel's One Year Anniversary Celebration 2025 DESCRIPTION:Qapel's One Year Anniversary Celebration\n Online or In-Person | October 4 - 5\, 2025\n As the one year anniversary of Qapel’s passing approaches\, it’s a special time to come together with Sensei and the Sangha to celebrate and honor our incredible teacher. \nIt’s also a time to step back and reflect on how the last year has been for us\, what has shifted\, and how we each see ourselves growing and contributing to Dharma. \nWe will mark this occasion with a series of online meditations\, teachings\, Sangha reflections and celebrations over the weekend of October 4th and 5th. \nAlong with all of this\, there will be an exciting further unveiling of a chapter of Psynaut\, Qapel’s autobiographical\, science fiction\, Dharma novel series! \nRegister and come to join with us online\, onsite at Clear Sky\, or gather with your local Sangha. \nParticipation is by dāna. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Qapel’s One Year Anniversary \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nWhat greater act of generosity is there than dedicating one’s life to the welfare of all sentient beings?  The group survives\, not the individual. We know we are all going to die. Life goes on. Amazing. \n\n– Qapel \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n How to Attend\nIf you are in the region of Clear Sky\, we warmly invite you to attend in person. \nIf you are based internationally\, we’d love to see you at the online portions of the weekend. We also encourage you to take this opportunity to come together in person with your local Sangha and celebrate this special weekend together with them. \nFor online participants\, while we’d love to see you at all the weekend events\, you are also welcome to solely attend the sessions that you can. \nNote: a separate registration is required for the Wongkur. \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule\nBelow is the approximate schedule. This is evolving and is subject to change.  All times are in Mountain Time. Length of sessions may vary slightly. \n\n\n\nSaturday 4th\n\n\n9:00am\nNamgyal Wongkur\n\n\n2:30 – 3:45pm\nSangha-led reflection and sharing; working with grief with Kylee Gies\n\n\n7:30pm\nQapel Karaoke playlist – onsite at Clear Sky only\, or get together with your local Sangha for your own event!\n\n\nSunday 5th\n\n\n10:00 – 11:15 am\n\nMessage from Sensei on the year since Qapel died\, and vision stepping into the future \nSurprise temple unveiling! \nPsynaut chapter release \n\n\n\n2:30 – 3:45pm\n\nDharma Trips: \nMessage from Sensei on role and importance of Dharma Trips in our lineage \nCelebrating the Stans Dharma Trip including Stans trailer! \nLivestream of Qapel Dharma trip video clips \nFuture Dharma Trips \nClosing Message \n\n\n\n7:30 – 8:15pm\nNamgyal Meditation\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Questions?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please contact the Clear Sky Retreat Manager at 250-429-3929  (phone) or at bookings@clearskycenter.org (email). \n \n In Person Registration \n \n Online Registration (Except Wongkur)\n \n Online Registration for Wongkur\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ways To Celebrate Qapel\n  \nThis is an important and poignant time for us all to take a step back\, and reflect on the many lessons and gifts we’ve received from our dear teacher Qapel. There are lots of ways to do this and to share your reflections with others. Here are just a few: \n\nPost to Qapel’s Facebook tribute page here: https://www.facebook.com/doug.duncan.587. This can be anything from words from your heart\, stories of teachings you received\, precious photos with Qapel\, a video\, a poem\, a song!\nNow that we’re a year since Qapel passed\, what’s landed for you?  How are you applying and living teachings and trainings that Qapel gave you? Take time to reflect and share with Sangha.\nReflect and share on this question: What do you imagine is your role in the Dharma of the future\nCome up with your own ideas and ways to honor what you received from Qapel!\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About DānaAbout the Online Admin Fee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nThe dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able \nTypically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course. \nAs we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us. \nConversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. \nLearn more about the practice of dāna here.\n \n \n \n \n \n In a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers\, and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online. The teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. \nThe admin fee* goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. The admin fee changes based on date of registration. \n*We also do not wish to exclude anyone from the Teachings\, so if you are not currently in a financial position to afford the admin fee\, please contact the course Registrar via registrar@planetdharma.com so we can support you to attend. \n— \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings\, and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and video later\, and Amazon cloud)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nWe welcome any questions. May all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Retreat In-Person?\n Retreating in person at a retreat center is the best way to retreat – why? \n\nYou can’t beat live interaction with the course Teachers. Being in the same space with clear beings ‘tunes’ you to more wholesome states.\nWe create a welcoming environment and follow a supportive retreat schedule\, based on decades of hosting successful retreats worldwide.\nWholesome and delicious food is provided so you don’t have to spend time cooking for yourself.\nBreath-taking and restful\, natural environment puts your body and mind at ease and resets your nervous system.\nRetreating at our center gets you out of your usual home environment and routines – they can be distracting.\nRetreating with others (your co-retreatants) is incredibly supportive and energy building.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We work hard to support the online learning experience.\n \nWe have been delivering online offerings since 2012 and are always looking for new ways to optimize your experience.\nClasses are live-streamed and some recordings are available for a certain time.\nHD cameras and professional audio equipment provide high quality video streaming.\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Do Previous Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n These are ancient teachings that I feel are important to understand if someone is serious about meditation. I appreciate Qapel and Sensei’s unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these life changing practices. They explore the rich history with us and also deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \nJenai LieuPsychology student\, CanadaWorking with Qapel and Sensei at the five day hero’s journey workshop was deeply impactful and has clarified not only my deepest heart’s desire\, but what I need to overcome to manifest it. They are extraordinary facilitators with a great depth of knowledge\, wisdom and presence to share. \nKira MacDuffeeM.Ed / RCCDoing karma yoga\, I watch how everyone gains new insights.  These many “a-ha moments” makes it clear to me that this type of active dharma training is a path that brings the modern spiritual explorer alive and moves them forward. \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive\, Clear Sky Accountability OfficerQapel and Sensei have consistently been honest\, accurate and candid with me. It has sometimes taken me years to admit my self-sabotaging blind spots. Clear and radical self-honesty liberates my sticky parts. Thank you to my master teachers for helping me free up all the energy knots – especially the ones created from unconscious patterning around money\, sex and power. \nEvangelos DiavolitsisMeditation Teacher and Coach\, Four Ways to Freedom. Italy\, Canada.Qapel and Sensei are always burning calories to get you back on a path that can lead toward greater self-awareness. When I am with these two very clear individuals\, I am humbled by their dedication to others\, and understand the every-waking-moment responsibility that comes with their calling. \nPeter UjlakiFine Art Dealer\, Japan URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/qapels-anniversary-celebration-2025/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Orora-Borealis-sharp.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251221 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260104 DTSTAMP:20251229T072536Z CREATED:20250806T153152Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251229T072536Z UID:10000670-1766275200-1767484799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Sangha Christmas and Foundation Work 2025 DESCRIPTION:Sangha Christmas Retreat\n \n \n\n“The best gift that we can give our Teacher is ‘doing the work.’” \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nJoin us this holiday season for time with Catherine Sensei\, Sangha and an eight-day Foundation Work retreat. \nOne-Week Retreat: December 24th – January 1st. \n(Early arrivals and longer stays are encouraged). \nRegistration Deadline: Sunday\, December 7th \nNote: This retreat is open to existing Sangha only. Prerequisite: In the past two-years\, you have attended at least one in-person retreat with Catherine Sensei. \n\n\n Registration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Foundation Work & Sangha Retreat\nSpending this holiday season working on our Foundation Practice together in community was such a precious and fruitful time in 2024\, that we’ll do it again together this year. \nAlready finished your Foundation work? No problem! You’re welcome to use this time focusing on your current practice. \nThe retreat also includes a New Year’s Celebration and some days enjoying time in community \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule\nHere is our schedule (some details may be adjusted slightly). \nSunday\, Dec. 21st: Arrival day \nMonday\, Dec. 22nd: Community Sangha Time \nTuesday\, Dec. 23rd: Community Sangha Time \nWednesday\, Dec. 24th – Thursday\, Jan 1st: Foundation Practice & New Year’s Celebration \nFriday\, Jan. 2nd: Community Sangha Time \nSaturday\, Jan. 3rd: Main Departure Day \n \n Registration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What’s Expected of Me?\n\nAn open mind and heart\, and a spirit of adventure are excellent things to bring!\nIt’s human to have some apprehensions about doing something new\, meeting new people\, or going to a new place. Particularly when all three happen together. We try to make this as supportive as possible.\nWhen exploring our growth edges\, it’s natural to feel uncertain and awkward. And it’s very fruitful to transform that emotional tension into creative energy by drawing on your own inner resources – such as inquiry\, going with the flow\, and self-reflection\, just a few of the many kinds of constructive engagement.\nTo maximize your retreat experience\, we ask that you refrain from reading\, using the internet\, phone or listening to music during the course.\nStudents are expected to be silent during the silent parts of the retreat\, and participate in all classes\, group meditations\, activities\, and discussions.\nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n The Location – Clear Sky Center\n\nLocated in the BC rocky mountains\, Clear Sky offers over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature. Founded by Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, the center is home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world.\nHow to get there\, what to bring and other FAQ about Clear Sky\nOur teachings and Clear Sky operate based on the ancient tradition of dāna or generosity. As generosity is the basis upon which all spiritual practice flourishes\, we recommend that you learn more about this profound practice before you register. URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/sangha-christmas-and-foundation-work-2025/ CATEGORIES:Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Sangha-Christmas-Retreat-Blank-e1731883475653-1080x720-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260327T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260405T150000 DTSTAMP:20260923T061418Z CREATED:20250818T105445Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T061418Z UID:10000678-1774623600-1775401200@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Vipassana Meditation Retreat 2026 DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat\n with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n   \nStudy sensation\, the breath\, body\, and mind. Join Catherine Pawasarat Sensei in an 10 day Vipassana meditation retreat\, a practice suitable whether you are a newbie or seasoned meditator\, or have always wanted to do a longer retreat. We will practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Let a fresh movement come into your spiritual unfoldment. Break down the rigidity of view in reference to breath and states of mind and go for more of a sense of union… \nCome to a correct relationship with body in the body\, feelings in the feelings\, mind states in the mind states\, and phenomena in phenomena: these four categories are seen for what they are\, and not subject to unaware projections.\n Namgyal Rinpoche \n On Meditation Retreat practice with the Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta\, in Body\, Speech & Mind \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience\nTen-Day Meditation Retreat\n\nAt this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. \nIf you have a background in Vipassana retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist Satipaṭṭhāna sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. \nAn online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n\nWhile we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. \nAnother of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is Namgyal Rinpoche’s book Body\, Speech\, Mind. In it\, Rinpoche teaches on the Satipaṭṭhāna sutta\, an incredibly powerful methodology of the Buddha’s four foundations of mindfulness: body\, feeling\, mind\, and mental objects. It is a guide to liberation. \nThis simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Did Last Year’s Breathing Retreat Meditators Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The anapanasati sutta created a deep\, deep experience for me. I was finally able to understand the 16 steps and the 4 tetrads much much better. It’s a whole new world. \nCheryl Bate Clinical Counsellor\, Private Practise\, Whistler\, BCI enjoyed reconnecting with my body\, with nature and with joyful memories during the retreat. Some of this was inspired through the breathing practice\, and some through searching for moments of piti which we could easily connect to. There was an easing during the retreat\, as well as some moments of deep connection and understanding. This time\, it was hearing spaciousness explained in a different way. \nZoe MooresTranslator\, trainer\, researcherThe breathing retreat was fantastic for me on so many levels! As my first retreat\, it really taught how me to deepen my budding meditation practice. Catherine Sensei is warm\, knowledgeable and led a wonderful course. \nJames StewartBuilding DesignerSensei\, fresh from a 3 month retreat\, gave beautiful\, grounded and profound teachings on breathing practice. The retreat worked seamlessly between those of us with the fortune to be in person\, and those joining online. Felt I could go very deep over the ten days with a transformative combination of a great teacher\, a deep practice\, a sincere group of co-retreatants\, and 310 acres in the mountains! \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What’s Expected of Me?\n\nAn open mind and heart\, and a spirit of adventure are excellent things to bring!\nIt’s human to have some apprehensions about doing something new\, meeting new people\, or going to a new place. Particularly when all three happen together. We try to make this as supportive as possible.\nWhen exploring our growth edges\, it’s natural to feel uncertain and awkward. And it’s very fruitful to transform that emotional tension into creative energy by drawing on your own inner resources – such as inquiry\, going with the flow\, and self-reflection\, just a few of the many kinds of constructive engagement.\nTo maximize your retreat experience\, we ask that you refrain from reading\, using the internet\, phone or listening to music during the course.\nStudents are expected to be silent during the silent parts of the retreat\, and participate in all classes\, group meditations\, activities\, and discussions.\nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n The Location – Clear Sky Center\n\nLocated in the BC rocky mountains\, Clear Sky offers over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature. Founded by Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, the center is home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world.\nHow to get there\, what to bring and other FAQ about Clear Sky\nOur teachings and Clear Sky operate based on the ancient tradition of dāna or generosity. As generosity is the basis upon which all spiritual practice flourishes\, we recommend that you learn more about this profound practice before you register.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meditation Groups\nThe power of continued community meditation practice:\nFollowing Catherine Sensei’s excellent Breathing retreat at Clear Sky and online in June 2022\, a group of students from Dharma Europe and Japan started a morning Zoom meeting to help continue the practice. Meeting at 8am UK time six days a week\, we take turns to lead/hold space – usually with a reading\, sometimes an exercise\, we meditate on the breath for 45 minutes and then share our experiences. The group has grown to include more European Sangha as well as Movement Shiatsu practitioners who didn’t attend the retreat but are committed to developing their practice.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s great to have the contact of the group – we learn so much from experiencing how the different parts of ourselves – individually and as a group perceive and receive the (phenomenal) world.  \n—Jonathan Clifford\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The daily contact with awakening beings uplifts and encourages me in a practice that has been very solitary for me for many years.  The daily discipline reminds me of a monastic order\, where the task of gathering at an appointed hour to sit in silence together IS a practice in itself. \n—Renata Drtina\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The morning sits and Anapanasati practice are an opportunity to explore and build sangha in a different way and for us to strengthen and deepen our practice together. \n—Zoe Moores\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Anapanasati group is an anchor – both to steady practice and being part of a group.  It helps me to be in contact when I don’t feel like it.  To practice speaking  in front of a group even when it’s not comfortable.  To practice leading a group.  And silently this group has reinforced and supported daily practice and helped me to experience contact with the experience of breathing. \n—Brigid Maclachlan\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Fees & Requirements\n \n \n \n \n \n Arrivals and Departures\nFor those traveling short distances\, we recommend coming a day early\, but at the latest\, please arrive by 3pm on June 13.  For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive at least 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat. Orientation begins after dinner on June 13. The first class is held on Saturday morning\, June 14. \nThere will be a final morning class and closing circle\, as well as cleaning our rooms on Sunday June 22. Departures will begin after this\, approximately 11am.  We also recommend adding an extra night or two to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n All Retreatants: A Dāna Based Retreat\n This retreat is offered on the basis of dāna (generosity). \nDāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”\, and is the traditional way in which Buddhist teachings are offered.  With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. You may have come across this in the form of “pay from the heart”. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nYou will be sent a link to offer “dana” to the teachers after registration. \nFor more information on dāna click here.\n \n \n \n \n \n For Online Retreatants: Admin Fees & Requirements\n In order to bring you this retreat at home\, there is an additional admin fee* of $350 CAD\, with registration at least three weeks or more before the retreat.  Registrations three weeks or less from the the retreat start date will incur a $450 admin fee.The admin fee is to cover the costs of running these online courses – for equipment and software to provide you the teachings online. \nIf you are taking this retreat online\, we require that you devote your full attention to the retreat for the entire week. \nRequirements include: \n\nBlock out the retreat duration and be focused on the retreat for this entire period\, using this time and participating in the retreat as if you were at Clear Sky in person.  This includes a rigorous\, full\, daily meditation schedule.\nParticipate in all of the daily classes and group practices via online streaming.\nSet up a quiet space or location where you can focus on the Meditation Retreat\, and not need to engage in conversation or work with others.\nPut away your phone\, digital devices and other distractions.\nIf there are enough people in the same time zone as you\, you could also make a cohort to meet to do a group practice throughout the retreat.\nNote: full details/ requirements will be sent to you after registering\n\n  \nAbout the administrative fee* \nIn a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online.\nThe teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \nThe admin fee goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and videos after the Teachings)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nMay all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings! \n*We also do not wish to exclude anyone from the Teachings\, so if you are not currently in a financial position to afford the admin fee\, please contact us so we can support you to attend. \nWe welcome any questions. Please feel free to contact registrar@planetdharma.com.\n \n \n \n \n \n Retreatants at Clear Sky: Lodging Fees \n In addition to Dana to the Teacher\, Clear Sky Meditation Centre provides an incredible space for your retreat.  Situated on a beautiful 310-acre property in the Rocky Mountains\, the center and its karma yogis provide you nourishing daily meals and comfortable accomodation. Read more: Staying with us (Clear Sky Meditation Centre) \nPlease go to the retreat registration page for this retreat for details of the all inclusive fee for the retreat. \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule\n Specific times may change (MST) \n\n\n\nRETREAT DAILY SCHEDULE\n\n\n\n\n\n\n6:30 – 7:30 AM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n7:30 – 8:15 AM\nBreakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n8:15 – 8:45 AM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n9:00 – 10:00 AM\nClass with Teachers\n\n\n10:00 – 10:30 AM\nWalk\n\n\n10:30 – 11:30 AM\nGroup Practice lead by Sangha\n\n\n11:30 – 12:30 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n12:30 – 1:30 PM\nLunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n1:30 – 3:00 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n3:00 – 4:00 PM\nGroup Practice lead by Sangha\n\n\n4:00 – 5:30 PM\nPersonal Practice\n\n\n5:30 – 7:00 PM \nDinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up\n\n\n7:00 – 7:30 PM\nWalk &/or Personal Practice\n\n\n7:30 – 8:30 PM\nGroup Practice and Q & A with Teachers\n\n\n8:30 – beyond\nPersonal Practice & bed\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Micro-dosing / Psychedelics\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths. Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. \nConsuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects. \nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \, Registration Deadlines:\nIN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until Jan 27\, 2026. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is March 13 2026. \nONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until Feb 27\, 2026. March 20\, 2026 is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ready to Register?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please phone 250-429-3929\, or contact bookings@clearskycenter.org. \n \n In-person registration \n \n Online registration URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/vipassana-meditation-retreat-2026/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260710T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260712T163000 DTSTAMP:20260630T021901Z CREATED:20251229T062422Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260630T021901Z UID:10000684-1783702800-1783873800@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:As the Spirit Moves 2026 DESCRIPTION:As the Spirit Moves\n Online or In-Person | July 10-12\, 2026\n Expect the unexpected! How will the Spirit move? This weekend is an offering of raw Dharma from the Teacher. You get to show up and experience epic Dharmic teachings\, without a particular predetermined subject. Be ready for anything and everything Dharma. Unforeseen\, undetermined\, unregulated. No seatbelts allowed. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n As the Spirit Moves\nA Tradition Born from Spontaneous Teaching\nThis retreat honors a tradition started by Qapel (Acariya Doug Duncan)\, one of Planet Dharma’s founding teachers. Qapel created this offering as a space for spontaneous teachings—whatever the teacher feels is most important to share at this particular time\, in this particular place\, with these particular beings. \nIn the past\, people “showed up” for Dharma teachings\, regardless of topic. The teachings given were inspired by the energy of the people there. Qapel used to say that he would go to a class of his Teacher\, Namgyal Rinpoche\, even if he were just reading a phone book! The Spirit of Dharma… it moves! \nSo\, are you ready to join Catherine Pawasarat Sensei for an eclectic weekend of “old school” style Dharma teachings? Wisdom invites you to learn on the path of riding the dragon\, come what may. \nAs you are well aware\, life is a great big journey into the unknown\, a Dharmic odyssey. This weekend is the same! Come to soak in Dharmic teachings from Catherine Sensei\, have fun\, and learn more about how to be the kind of being you want to be. As Bodhisattvas\, we keep on diving into learning how to be of service and help alleviate the suffering of beings. It’s an amazing ride\, and every opportunity to dive into the depth of Dharma is a precious one. How do we know what we need to hear—and when we hear it\, will we listen? There’s only one way to find out. \nTake a leap of faith. Join the Teacher. Join the spirit of integral evolution. We dare you! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Details\n \nTime and Location\nAs the Spirit Moves will be led by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei at Clear Sky Meditation Center in Eastern BC. This course is offered in-person with an online option for those not in Western Canada. \nSchedule / Class Times \nClasses will be 60-90 mins in duration\, with classes in the morning and evening and possibly the afternoon each day (Mountain Time) – the exact schedule to be confirmed. Please ensure you are available for the whole weekend to focus on the course material and attend classes live. \nOnline participants\nare expected to attend classes live. We will arrange class times to be comfortable for most time zones. However we understand that some class times might occur after midnight in some regions\, if this is the case for you\, please let us know when you register. Then we can provide a recording so you can catch up on that particular class. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nIn-Person Participants: 1) dāna to the Teacher plus 2) accommodation and meal costs for your stay Clear Sky Meditation Centre. \nOnline Participants: 1) dāna to the Teacher 2) online administration fee of $150 CAD. \nKeen Practitioner Pricing: Book now and get 10% off listed prices. Offer valid until June 6\, 2026. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About DānaAbout the Online Admin Fee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nThe dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able \nTypically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course. \nAs we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us. \nConversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. \nLearn more about the practice of dāna here.\n \n \n \n \n \n In a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers\, and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online. The teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. \nThe admin fee goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. The admin fee changes based on date of registration. \n— \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings\, and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and video later\, and Amazon cloud)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nWe welcome any questions. May all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration\nImportant: Please register early. The Registration deadline is July 4th\, 2026. \n \n In Person Registration \n \n Online Registration \n \n \n \n \n \n Questions?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please contact the Clear Sky Retreat Manager at 250-429-3929  (phone) or at www.clearskycenter.org (contact form).\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Retreat In-Person?\n Retreating in person at a retreat center is the best way to retreat – why? \n\nYou can’t beat live interaction with the course Teachers. Being in the same space with clear beings ‘tunes’ you to more wholesome states.\nWe create a welcoming environment and follow a supportive retreat schedule\, based on decades of hosting successful retreats worldwide.\nWholesome and delicious food is provided so you don’t have to spend time cooking for yourself.\nBreath-taking and restful\, natural environment puts your body and mind at ease and resets your nervous system.\nRetreating at our center gets you out of your usual home environment and routines – they can be distracting.\nRetreating with others (your co-retreatants) is incredibly supportive and energy building.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We work hard to support the online learning experience.\n \nWe have been delivering online offerings since 2012 and are always looking for new ways to optimize your experience.\nClasses are live-streamed and some recordings are available for a certain time.\nHD cameras and professional audio equipment provide high quality video streaming.\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Do Previous Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n These are ancient teachings that I feel are important to understand if someone is serious about meditation. I appreciate Qapel and Sensei’s unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these life changing practices. They explore the rich history with us and also deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \nJenai LieuPsychology student\, CanadaWorking with Qapel and Sensei at the five day hero’s journey workshop was deeply impactful and has clarified not only my deepest heart’s desire\, but what I need to overcome to manifest it. They are extraordinary facilitators with a great depth of knowledge\, wisdom and presence to share. \nKira MacDuffeeM.Ed / RCCDoing karma yoga\, I watch how everyone gains new insights.  These many “a-ha moments” makes it clear to me that this type of active dharma training is a path that brings the modern spiritual explorer alive and moves them forward. \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive\, Clear Sky Accountability OfficerQapel and Sensei have consistently been honest\, accurate and candid with me. It has sometimes taken me years to admit my self-sabotaging blind spots. Clear and radical self-honesty liberates my sticky parts. Thank you to my master teachers for helping me free up all the energy knots – especially the ones created from unconscious patterning around money\, sex and power. \nEvangelos DiavolitsisMeditation Teacher and Coach\, Four Ways to Freedom. Italy\, Canada.Qapel and Sensei are always burning calories to get you back on a path that can lead toward greater self-awareness. When I am with these two very clear individuals\, I am humbled by their dedication to others\, and understand the every-waking-moment responsibility that comes with their calling. \nPeter UjlakiFine Art Dealer\, Japan URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/as-the-spirit-moves-2026/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/GuruRimpoche.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260918 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260921 DTSTAMP:20260915T221110Z CREATED:20251222T083211Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T221110Z UID:10000682-1789689600-1789948799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:AstroDharma 2026: The Nodes & Your Planetary Purpose DESCRIPTION:AstroDharma: The Nodes & Your Planetary Purpose\n Online or In-Person | September 18-20\, 2026\n What does the planet need from you? Who are you here to be? And how do you get there from here? These aren’t small questions. You sense there’s a unique contribution only you can make. A purpose that’s yours alone. But how do you find it? More importantly—how do you live it? \nThe nodes in your astrological chart hold the map. They show your path of spiritual progress in this lifetime. Your South Node reveals your karma—the familiar patterns you default to\, the conditioning that keeps you stuck. Your North Node points to your Dharma—the direction your soul is being called to grow\, the gifts you’re here to share with the world. \nJoin Catherine Sensei for a transformative weekend that helps you discover how to use your natural resources—your talents\, your experiences\, your unique energy—to be more generous in the world. This isn’t abstract spiritual philosophy. This is about finding your planetary purpose and learning how to actually embody it. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n This course is for you if:\n\nYou want to study an astrological Dharmic framework with a wisdom teacher in the Namgyal lineage.\nYou’re ready to learn how to get unstuck from your conditioning and discover where you want to acquire experience\, knowledge\, and skills to develop your unique Dharmic path\nYou’re seeking greater clues into finding your planetary purpose—who you’re here to be in this lifetime\nYou’re part of a Sangha and want to better understand one another’s patterns so you can transform interpersonal conflict into mutual support (this course is really good for Sanghas).\nYou want practical tools for recognizing energy dynamics in your relationships and shifting them in more wholesome way\nYou’re ready to discover how to share your gifts with the world in a way that actually serves\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n You Know That Feeling When…\n  \n\nYou keep hitting the same walls\, running the same patterns\, and you know there’s a way through but you can’t quite see it\nYou sense you have gifts to offer the world\, but you’re not sure what they are or how to share them\nYour relationships keep triggering the same dynamics\, and you wonder if there’s a deeper pattern at play\nYou’re ready to get unstuck from old conditioning and step into who you’re truly meant to be\nYou’re part of a spiritual community and you want to understand the energy dynamics that create harmony (or friction) between people\nYou feel called to something bigger but you’re not sure how to bridge the gap between where you are and where you need to be. \nIf any of these resonate\, this course is for you.\n\n \nWhy the Nodes Matter\n  \nThe nodes describe how we can use our natural resources\, our talents\, to be more generous in the world. They show us where we get stuck and how to get unstuck. They reveal where we have gifts and where there’s potential for further growth. \nThe nodes were one of the parts of AstroDharma that our late teacher Qapel had the most interest in\, and a key area Catherine Sensei focuses on in her AstroDharma teachings. \nThis course is especially powerful for developing community. Understanding one another’s AstroDharmic patterns—your natal horoscopes—can really help us take interpersonal conflict and look at the energy dynamics that are involved. Instead of the usual patterns of either engaging in interpersonal conflict or avoiding it altogether\, you’ll learn how to understand these dynamics and shift them in more wholesome ways so you can really support one another. \nThe course links beautifully to the Emotional Intelligence course—the nodes work reveals the deeper patterns at play\, while emotional intelligence gives you the skills to navigate them skillfully. We strongly recommend taking them together for a complete approach to working with yourself and others. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What You’ll Discover:\nIn this course\, we’ll explore the nodes from multiple angles—what they portray astronomically and astrologically\, how they show up in our lives\, and specifically how they show up for you. \nYou’ll learn:\n\nHow the nodes reveal your path of spiritual progress in this lifetime\nWhere your conditioning keeps you stuck—and how to get unstuck\nWhere you want to acquire experience\, knowledge\, and skills to develop your unique Dharmic path\nHow to use your natural resources (talents) to be more generous in the world\nTools for understanding interpersonal dynamics and energy patterns within communities\nHow to bridge the gap from where you are to who you’re meant to be\n\nFor in-person participants: You’ll experience somatic AstroDharma mandalas (somatic constellations) to explore the nodes through your body. These are visceral\, compelling experiences that bring the teachings alive in a whole new way. Lucky us! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why AstroDharma Works\nFor spiritual seekers looking to grow\, this unique combination of Buddhism and Transpersonal Astrology speeds us up on our spiritual path. \nMany of us in the West are raised to celebrate the individual self—to find our unique path and explore why we’re here on this planet. Yet Buddhist Dharma leaps over personalization by teaching that there is no inherent self\, and that we must realize this to find spiritual awakening. \nFor many of us\, that’s a big leap. \nOn the way\, we may miss valuable lessons about how to compassionately show up in the world as unique individuals. AstroDharma bridges these two systems. Transpersonal Western astrology reveals individual patterns and influences—we get a window into the energies\, the pushes and pulls of the psyche. Dharma expands the view beyond self\, into a path of service to community\, for the benefit of all beings. \nOver time\, with growing confidence and awareness\, we can transcend our natal charts and awaken. But first\, we work with what we’ve got. \nWe initially pursued AstroDharma because Namgyal Rinpoche also taught astrology. We’ve found it to be an effective tool for helping us explore our patterns. It’s unique for each person\, and AstroDharma helps us unpack that uniqueness so you can use it better for yourself and for others. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What to Bring\nWe really encourage you to be here in person if possible—you’ll get the most out of the somatic constellation work and the energy of practicing in community. But we also support online participants with high-quality streaming and interactive classes. \nCome prepared with: \n\nYour astrological chart (instructions provided upon registration).\nAn open mind and questions that matter to you\n\nThis is a weekend to clear your schedule and focus. Bring your curiosity. Bring your stuck places. Bring your willingness to discover who you’re really here to be. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. She has developed AstroDharma as a tool for transformation\, synthesizing Buddhist teachings on spiritual awakening with transpersonal Western astrology based on the teachings of Carl Jung. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024 in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West\, and received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nSince the early 2000s\, Catherine has provided dharma training and taught the  path of awakening to hundreds of students. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, she draws on generative living\, transpersonal astrology\, and Japanese arts. Catherine comes from a lineage of spiritual awakening that values the best of Eastern and Western philosophy—an ideal training for Westerners and an evolution of traditional teachings for the modern seeker. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n An Episode from our Podcast: On the North and South Nodes\, Chiron and Saturn\nIn this AstroDharma podcast episode\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei and Doug ‘Qapel’ Duncan explore parts of our natal charts that are particularly connected to spiritual and personal transformation\, including Chiron\, Saturn\, and North and South Nodes. They explain how these lenses can help us get unstuck\, transform challenges into tools\, and take things in our lives less personally. This includes how to use astrology to integrate our shadow and realize our fullest potential. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bonus Gift for Course Participants\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Online AstroDharma Course INCLUDED\nCatherine Sensei also offers an online Intro to AstroDharma course which you will be able to access at the end of this course. This will help you continue your studies. The course will be available upon request to participants who complete the retreat. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Details\nTime and Location\nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei at Clear Sky Meditation Center in Eastern BC. Available in-person or online. \nRetreating at Clear Sky means you can participate in the in-person somatic AstroDharma constellation work—always a more grounded\, supportive\, communal experience. \nSchedule / Class Times\nAll listed in Mountain Daylight Time (MDT)\, and will be 60-90 minutes in duration.  Please clear your schedule for the entire weekend to focus on this work. The following class times are approximate: \n\nFriday\, September 18 — 7pm (arrive on-site at 3pm)\nSaturday\, September 19 — 9am\, 2pm\, plus in-person somatic work at 7pm\nSunday\, September 20 — 9am\, 2pm\, plus in-person somatic work at 4pm\n\nOnline participants are expected to attend classes live.  We have arranged class times to be comfortable for most time zones. However we understand that some class times might occur after midnight in some regions; if this is the case for you\, please let us know when you register. We can provide a recording so you can catch up on that particular class if it occurs in the middle of the night for you. \nWhat you’ll need: Your astrology chart with the Nodes\, Chiron\, and Eris\, using Placidus house system. Detailed instructions provided upon registration. \nNote: this course links well to the Emotional Intelligence course offered in July\, 2026—we recommend considering them together. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nIn-Person Participants: \n1) dāna to the Teacher plus \n2) accomodation and meal costs for your stay Clear Sky Meditation Centre. \nOnline Participants: \n1) dāna to the Teacher \n2) online administration fee of $170 CAD. \nKeen practitioner pricing: 5% savings on program fees available until July 19\, 2026. \nImportant: The last day to register is one week prior to the retreat start date. Please register early. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About DānaAbout the Online Admin Fee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart.” Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity.” With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nThe Dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able. \nTypically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course. \nAs we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us. \nConversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. \nLearn more about the practice of dāna here.\n \n \n \n \n \n In a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers\, and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online. The teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. \nThe admin fee* goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. The admin fee changes based on date of registration. \n*We also do not wish to exclude anyone from the Teachings\, so if you are not currently in a financial position to afford the admin fee\, please contact the course Registrar via registrar@planetdharma.com so we can support you to attend. \n— \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings\, and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and video later\, and Amazon cloud)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nWe welcome any questions. May all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration\nIMPORTANT: In Person –  Keen Practitioner Pricing: Book now and get 10% off listed prices. Offer valid until July 19\, 2026.    \n Online retreatants\, please register as early as possible so there is time to prepare your charts. (Register for online by Sep\, 11 2026.) \n \n Register for in-person retreat \n \n Register for Online \n \n \n \n \n \n Questions?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please contact the Clear Sky Retreat Manager at 250-429-3929  (phone) or at www.clearskycenter.org (contact form).\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Retreat In-Person?\n Retreating in person at a retreat center is the best way to retreat – why? \n\nYou can’t beat live interaction with the course Teachers. Being in the same space with clear beings ‘tunes’ you to more wholesome states.\nWe create a welcoming environment and follow a supportive retreat schedule\, based on decades of hosting successful retreats worldwide.\nWholesome and delicious food is provided so you don’t have to spend time cooking for yourself.\nBreath-taking and restful\, natural environment puts your body and mind at ease and resets your nervous system.\nRetreating at our center gets you out of your usual home environment and routines – they can be distracting.\nRetreating with others (your co-retreatants) is incredibly supportive and energy building.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We work hard to support the online learning experience.\n \nWe have been delivering online offerings since 2012 and are always looking for new ways to optimize your experience.\nClasses are live-streamed and some recordings are available for a certain time.\nHD cameras and professional audio equipment provide high quality video streaming.\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Do Previous Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n These are ancient teachings that I feel are important to understand if someone is serious about meditation. I appreciate Qapel and Sensei’s unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these life changing practices. They explore the rich history with us and also deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \nJenai LieuPsychology student\, CanadaWorking with Qapel and Sensei at the five day hero’s journey workshop was deeply impactful and has clarified not only my deepest heart’s desire\, but what I need to overcome to manifest it. They are extraordinary facilitators with a great depth of knowledge\, wisdom and presence to share. \nKira MacDuffeeM.Ed / RCCDoing karma yoga\, I watch how everyone gains new insights.  These many “a-ha moments” makes it clear to me that this type of active dharma training is a path that brings the modern spiritual explorer alive and moves them forward. \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive\, Clear Sky Accountability OfficerQapel and Sensei have consistently been honest\, accurate and candid with me. It has sometimes taken me years to admit my self-sabotaging blind spots. Clear and radical self-honesty liberates my sticky parts. Thank you to my master teachers for helping me free up all the energy knots – especially the ones created from unconscious patterning around money\, sex and power. \nEvangelos DiavolitsisMeditation Teacher and Coach\, Four Ways to Freedom. Italy\, Canada.Qapel and Sensei are always burning calories to get you back on a path that can lead toward greater self-awareness. When I am with these two very clear individuals\, I am humbled by their dedication to others\, and understand the every-waking-moment responsibility that comes with their calling. \nPeter UjlakiFine Art Dealer\, Japan \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Free AstroDharma Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Free AstroDharma Resources\n We’d like to gift you three AstroDharma resources that we’ve found very helpful. Subscribe to get the following tools\, direct to your inbox: \n\nAstroDharma Reference Chart (Handy printable guide)\nThe 3 Most Important Parts of Your Chart (Video)\nAstroDharma and Relationships (Video)\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n How We Use AstroDharma\n For spiritual seekers looking to grow\, the unique combination of Buddhism and Transpersonal Astrology speed us up on our spiritual path. \nAt our meditation centre\, we use Western astrology alongside Buddhist philosophy and meditation practice.  This helps our students transform their challenges more effectively. \nThere are five key aspects of AstroDharma study:\n1. Understand how to read your own astrological birth chart.\n2. Harness and develop its positive elements wisely.\n3. Recognize and overcome elements that may be out-of-balance.\n4. Use this knowledge to redirect your energy into more effective patterns of living.\n5. Use meditation\, and ideally work with teachers and a spiritual community\, to go deeper and fully investigate and liberate the subtle patterns and conditioning.\n \n \n \n \n \n Teacher Bio\n Catherine Pawasarat \nSince the early 2000s Catherine has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Doug Duncan Sensei and on her own. In addition to Astrology and Buddhist philosophy and their applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \nCatherine is from a lineage of spiritual awakening that values the best of Eastern and Western philosophy. Her partner Doug Duncan Sensei and their teacher Namgyal Rinpoche excel in teaching both methods. This is an ideal training for Westerners\, and an evolution of traditional teachings for the modern seeker. \nIn addition to Planet Dharma and Clear Sky\, her website GionFestival.org shares her ground-breaking work on the spiritual traditions and sustainability of Kyoto’s 1100-year-old Gion Festival.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Free AstroDharma Resources – Join our Community\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n AstroDharma is a profound and vast study. Join our Planet Dharma newsletter to get a handy AstroDharma one-page reference guide and an introductory video to help you get oriented\, as well as periodic updates and teachings from Planet Dharma.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n InstagramThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name*\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Email*\n \n \n Start Now \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Once you click please wait momentarily. URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/astrodharma-2026-the-nodes-your-planetary-purpose/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/AstroDharma-Background-3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261009 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261026 DTSTAMP:20260303T233415Z CREATED:20251229T083831Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T233415Z UID:10000685-1791504000-1792972799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Tantric Meditation Retreat 2026 DESCRIPTION:Tantric Meditation Retreat\n With Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\n October 9 – October 25\, 2026\nThis seventeen-day intensive practice retreat invites you into the heart of Vajrayana practice itself. We’ll journey through the complete path of Tantra—from essential foundational practices through the pinnacle of Highest Yoga Tantra and Mahamudra—moving beyond intellectual understanding into direct experience of the incredible mystery of existence. \n Registration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Perhaps it is a more difficult path since we tend to get caught up in our desires that end up in attachment that is the source of suffering. But it is also a richer and more integrated path as we can use our full human potential and capabilities to rediscover wonderment without the clinging that causes suffering. \n Qapel (Acharya Doug Duncan)\n Life as Tantra: Weaving Desire into Liberation - Blog \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Practice Transmission\nSeventeen Days of Tantric Meditation\n\nDrawing on classical texts and lineage wisdom\, you’ll journey through the four classes of Tantra\, engaging deeply with creation stage (visualization of enlightened form) and completion stage (direct realization of ultimate reality) practices. This is training in how to enter\, progress on\, and complete the Vajrayana journey through all four classes of tantra\, following the classical Kagyu and Gelug presentations. \nYou’ll establish or deepen the four preliminary practices essential to this path: contemplating impermanence and precious human birth\, understanding karma\, developing bodhicitta\, and cultivating devotion to the lineage and guru. From this stable ground\, we progress through systematic training in generation stage yoga—learning to visualize ourselves in enlightened form—and completion stage yoga\, where we realize the ultimate nature of reality directly. \nThroughout\, we return to fundamental questions: What truly brings happiness? What is our actual motivation? How much can our rational minds grasp\, and where must we surrender to direct experience? \nThis is an advanced retreat and is offered upon approved application and requires an established meditation practice and completion of a significant portion of your foundation practices. If foundational practices are not complete\, the applicant must be actively progressing in their foundation work. \nWhile we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of profound direct experience gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan as his attendant and consort from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What You’ll Practice\n  \nFoundation Practices for the Tantric PathWe’ll establish or deepen the four preliminary practices essential to Vajrayana: contemplating impermanence and precious human birth\, understanding karma\, developing bodhicitta\, and cultivating devotion to the lineage and guru. \nCreation Stage YogaThrough guided practice\, you’ll learn to visualize yourself in enlightened form—the generation stage practices that transform ordinary perception and establish divine pride. \nCompletion Stage YogaMoving beyond visualization\, we’ll engage practices that lead to direct realization of ultimate reality—the perfection stage that dissolves conceptual mind into direct knowing. \nThe Four Classes of TantraUnderstand how to progress through Kriya\, Charya\, Yoga\, and Highest Yoga Tantra\, with particular emphasis on the practices of Highest Yoga Tantra. \nMahamudra ViewExperience the Kagyu presentation of Mahamudra as the pinnacle practice—clarifying ground\, path\, and fruition through direct meditation experience rather than intellectual study alone. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What’s Expected of Me?\n\nThis retreat requires an established meditation practice and completion of a significant portion of your foundation practices. Applications will be reviewed for approval.\nCultivating motivation\, devotion\, and genuine inquiry into what will truly make you happy\nAn open mind and heart\, and a spirit of adventure are excellent things to bring!\nTo maximize your retreat experience\, we ask that you refrain from reading\, using the internet\, phone or listening to music during the course.\nStudents are expected to be silent during the silent parts of the retreat\, and participate in all classes\, group meditations\, activities\, and discussions.\nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n The Location – Clear Sky Center\nLocated in the BC rocky mountains\, Clear Sky offers over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature. Founded by Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, the center is home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. \nHow to get there\, what to bring and other FAQ about Clear Sky \nOur teachings and Clear Sky operate based on the ancient tradition of dāna or generosity. As generosity is the basis upon which all spiritual practice flourishes\, we recommend that you learn more about this profound practice before you apply. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Retreatants at Clear Sky\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lodging Fees\nPlease go to the retreat application page for details of the all inclusive fee for the retreat. \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n APPLICATION FORM\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Application Process\nThis retreat is offered upon approved application:  \nRegistration deadlines and application details will be announced in Spring 2026. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Fees & Requirements\n  \nArrivals and Departures\nFor those traveling short distances\, we recommend coming a day early\, but at the latest\, please arrive by 3pm on Friday. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive at least 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat. Orientation begins after dinner on October 16. The first class is held on Saturday morning\, October 17. \nThere will be a final morning class and closing circle\, as well as cleaning our rooms on the final Sunday before departing. Departures will begin after this\, approximately 11am. We also recommend adding an extra night or two to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. \n \n \n \n \n \n All Retreatants: A Dāna Based Retreat\nDāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”\, and is the traditional way in which Buddhist teachings are offered. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. You may have come across this in the form of “pay from the heart”. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nYou will be sent a link to offer “dana” to the teachers after your application is approved. \nFor more information on dāna click here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spacer Holder for the 1st Item\n \n \n \n \n \n \n What specific Vajrayana practices will be covered during this retreat?\n The retreat explores the four classes of Tantra\, including creation stage visualization and completion stage practices. You will also engage in Mahamudra meditation to realize ultimate reality directly.\n \n \n \n \n \n What are the prerequisites for attending this advanced meditation retreat?\n Applicants must have an established meditation practice and have completed\, or be actively progressing in\, their foundational (Ngöndro) practices. Entry is based on an approved application process.\n \n \n \n \n \n Can you explain the four preliminary practices mentioned in the course?\n The foundational practices involve contemplating impermanence\, understanding karma\, developing bodhicitta (compassionate heart)\, and cultivating devotion to the lineage and teacher. These provide the stable ground for Tantric work.\n \n \n \n \n \n What is the difference between creation stage and completion stage yoga?\n The creation stage involves visualizing oneself in enlightened forms to transform perception. Completion stage moves beyond visualization to engage practices that dissolve the conceptual mind into direct\, ultimate knowing.\n \n \n \n \n \n What are the behavioral expectations for retreatants at Clear Sky?\n Participants must observe silence during designated times\, refrain from using technology or music\, and avoid mind-altering substances. Full participation in all classes and group meditations is required.\n \n \n \n \n \n How does the Dāna (generosity) system work for this retreat?\n Teachers offer these profound teachings based on mutual generosity. You are invited to offer a financial contribution that reflects your appreciation and supports the continuation of the lineage.\n \n \n \n \n \n What should I know about the arrival and departure schedule?\n Please arrive by 3:00 pm on Friday for orientation. The retreat concludes the following Sunday morning after a final class and closing circle\, with departures beginning around 11:00 am.\n \n \n \n \n \n Why is there an application process for this specific program?\n Due to the advanced nature of Vajrayana and Tantric practices\, the application ensures participants have the necessary experience and foundational training to safely and effectively engage with these teachings.\n \n \n \n \n \n Where is the retreat located and what is the environment like?\n The retreat is held at Clear Sky Center in the BC Rocky Mountains. It offers 300 acres of natural wilderness\, providing a supportive\, quiet space for deep spiritual immersion.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Did Last Year’s Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The anapanasati sutta created a deep\, deep experience for me. I was finally able to understand the 16 steps and the 4 tetrads much much better. It’s a whole new world. \nCheryl Bate Clinical Counsellor\, Private Practise\, Whistler\, BCI enjoyed reconnecting with my body\, with nature and with joyful memories during the retreat. Some of this was inspired through the breathing practice\, and some through searching for moments of piti which we could easily connect to. There was an easing during the retreat\, as well as some moments of deep connection and understanding. This time\, it was hearing spaciousness explained in a different way. \nZoe MooresTranslator\, trainer\, researcherThe breathing retreat was fantastic for me on so many levels! As my first retreat\, it really taught how me to deepen my budding meditation practice. Catherine Sensei is warm\, knowledgeable and led a wonderful course. \nJames StewartBuilding DesignerSensei\, fresh from a 3 month retreat\, gave beautiful\, grounded and profound teachings on breathing practice. The retreat worked seamlessly between those of us with the fortune to be in person\, and those joining online. Felt I could go very deep over the ten days with a transformative combination of a great teacher\, a deep practice\, a sincere group of co-retreatants\, and 310 acres in the mountains! \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/tantric-meditation-retreat-2026/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/vajralevel.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20261225T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20261229T170000 DTSTAMP:20261004T183710Z CREATED:20260927T200502Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261004T183710Z UID:10000689-1798218000-1798563600@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions\n In-Person & Online with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026\n \n\n  \n“The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  \n– Catherine Sensei \n\n\n Registration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. \nThis retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. \nRegistration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register by December 18\, 2026 \nKeen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas?\nKilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. \nAlongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler\, less familiar defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, quietly disrupting our equanimity day to day. Two we’ll focus on are worry\, often mistaken for a sign of care\, and an attachment to knowledge that can stand in for genuine wisdom. \nThese aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What We’ll Explore\nOver four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: \n\nLearn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.\nExplore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachings\nDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa Sutta\nPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily life\nConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planet\n\nNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\nSchedule\nFor in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFormal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. \nDeparture and New Year’s Celebration \nThe last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n Register for in-person retreat \n \n Register for Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\nAbout Clear Sky\nLocated in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature. \nFounded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. \nIn adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. \nEVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  \nRegistration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 \nKeen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for in-person retreat \n \n Register for Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spacer Holder for the 1st Item\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.\n\nThe costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat. \n\nIn person cost including meals and accommodation range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. \nOnline\n\nCAD $225.00 – Online Course Fee\n\nKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until Novem \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. \nYou may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nThe dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able \nTypically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  \nAs we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  \nConversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. \nLearn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  \nAs a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. \nThe teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  \nFor some\, this is still a barrier of entry. \nIf you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \nNote: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  \nPlease note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  \nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Keen Practitioner/Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. \nONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Do Previous Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We are so blessed to have Sensei as one of the dedicated teachers at Clear Sky. I admire her continued commitment to helping us and others on the planet and I am awed by her abilities. Glad you are not hiding them under a basket. Thank you so much for the time you give so generously to talk\, touch one on the shoulder\, listen and speak truth. \nDan O'BrianAuthor\, Japan SeriesSensei has an unwavering compassion and commitment to support and accelerate the unfoldment of all beings around her.\nIt is a blessing and a privilege to be one of the lucky few who can bask in the glow of this radiance. \nDave Basu RoyChef\, food business strategist and socialpreneurSensei is an inspirational woman and I am blessed to walk this earth beside her. \nMaya LewandowskyArtistic Director and Vocal CoachMuch love\, gratitude and appreciation to Sensei for the incredible woman\, teacher and human being that she is. Thank you for being a true light and inspiration in this world. \nRuth Naomi LevinMFA\, Small Business Owner\, Movement Teacher & Performing ArtistGratitude to Sensei for lighting up our love lives with her fire. \nEvangelos DiavolitisMeditation Teacher and Coach\, Four Ways to Freedom. Italy\, Canada. URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/the-kilesas-freeing-the-heart-from-obscuring-emotions/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/kilesas-retreat-banner-small.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20270319T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20270328T150000 DTSTAMP:20261005T235048Z CREATED:20261005T065300Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261005T235048Z UID:10000690-1805468400-1806246000@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Vipassana Meditation Retreat 2027 DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat\n with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027\n   \nVipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization. \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n“The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” \n\n\n Namgyal Rinpoche\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience\n \nAt this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. \nAn online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat\n\nWhile we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. \nAnother of our foundation practices is learning. \nA guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. \nThis simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\nSchedule\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat. \nSample brief daily schedule: \n9am Class with Teacher \n11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student \n12:30pm Lunch \n3pm Group Meditation with Teacher \n6pm Dinner \n7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student \nDeparture: \nDepartures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. \n*Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Online registration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In-person registration \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\nAbout Clear Sky\nLocated in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  \nFounded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. \nIn adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. \nEVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Spacer Holder for the 1st Item\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \nThe teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  \nThe costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  \n\nIn person cost including meals and accommodation. \n\nShared Room – CAD $1\,557.00\nPrivate Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00\nOrion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00\nTenting – CAD $1\,017.00\n\nOnline \n\nCAD $450.00 – Online Course Fee\n\nEarly bird discount available (see below). \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n Dana: \nRegistration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. \nYou may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nThe dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able \nTypically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  \nAs we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  \nConversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. \nLearn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  \nAs a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. \nThe teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  \nFor some\, this is still a barrier of entry. \nIf you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) \n6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \nNote: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  \nPlease note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  \nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Keen Practitioner/Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. \nONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Did Last Year’s Breathing Retreat Meditators Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The anapanasati sutta created a deep\, deep experience for me. I was finally able to understand the 16 steps and the 4 tetrads much much better. It’s a whole new world. \nCheryl Bate Clinical Counsellor\, Private Practise\, Whistler\, BCI enjoyed reconnecting with my body\, with nature and with joyful memories during the retreat. Some of this was inspired through the breathing practice\, and some through searching for moments of piti which we could easily connect to. There was an easing during the retreat\, as well as some moments of deep connection and understanding. This time\, it was hearing spaciousness explained in a different way. \nZoe MooresTranslator\, trainer\, researcherThe breathing retreat was fantastic for me on so many levels! As my first retreat\, it really taught how me to deepen my budding meditation practice. Catherine Sensei is warm\, knowledgeable and led a wonderful course. \nJames StewartBuilding DesignerSensei\, fresh from a 3 month retreat\, gave beautiful\, grounded and profound teachings on breathing practice. The retreat worked seamlessly between those of us with the fortune to be in person\, and those joining online. Felt I could go very deep over the ten days with a transformative combination of a great teacher\, a deep practice\, a sincere group of co-retreatants\, and 310 acres in the mountains! \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meditation Groups\nThe power of continued community meditation practice:\nFollowing Catherine Sensei’s excellent Breathing retreat at Clear Sky and online in June 2022\, a group of students from Dharma Europe and Japan started a morning Zoom meeting to help continue the practice. Meeting at 8am UK time six days a week\, we take turns to lead/hold space – usually with a reading\, sometimes an exercise\, we meditate on the breath for 45 minutes and then share our experiences. The group has grown to include more European Sangha as well as Movement Shiatsu practitioners who didn’t attend the retreat but are committed to developing their practice.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It’s great to have the contact of the group – we learn so much from experiencing how the different parts of ourselves – individually and as a group perceive and receive the (phenomenal) world.  \n—Jonathan Clifford\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The daily contact with awakening beings uplifts and encourages me in a practice that has been very solitary for me for many years.  The daily discipline reminds me of a monastic order\, where the task of gathering at an appointed hour to sit in silence together IS a practice in itself. \n—Renata Drtina\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The morning sits and Anapanasati practice are an opportunity to explore and build sangha in a different way and for us to strengthen and deepen our practice together. \n—Zoe Moores\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Anapanasati group is an anchor – both to steady practice and being part of a group.  It helps me to be in contact when I don’t feel like it.  To practice speaking  in front of a group even when it’s not comfortable.  To practice leading a group.  And silently this group has reinforced and supported daily practice and helped me to experience contact with the experience of breathing. \n—Brigid Maclachlan\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration Deadlines:\nIN-PERSON:  March 12th\, 2027 \nONLINE: March 12th\, 2027  \n \nEarly Bird Deadlines:\nIN-PERSON:  February 21st\, 2027 \nONLINE: February 28th\, 2027 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In-person registration \n \n Online registration URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/vipassana-meditation-retreat-2027/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20270710T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20270711T163000 DTSTAMP:20261006T134600Z CREATED:20261005T144616Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261006T134600Z UID:10000691-1815238800-1815323400@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:As the Spirit Moves 2027 DESCRIPTION:As the Spirit Moves\n Online or In-Person | July 10-11\, 2027\n Expect the unexpected! How will the Spirit move? This weekend is an offering of raw Dharma from the Teacher. You get to show up and experience epic Dharmic teachings\, without a particular predetermined subject. Be ready for anything and everything Dharma. Unforeseen\, undetermined\, unregulated. No seatbelts allowed. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n As the Spirit Moves\nA Tradition Born from Spontaneous Teaching\nThis retreat honors a tradition started by Qapel (Acariya Doug Duncan)\, one of Planet Dharma’s founding teachers. Qapel created this offering as a space for spontaneous teachings—whatever the teacher feels is most important to share at this particular time\, in this particular place\, with these particular beings. \nIn the past\, people “showed up” for Dharma teachings\, regardless of topic. The teachings given were inspired by the energy of the people there. Qapel used to say that he would go to a class of his Teacher\, Namgyal Rinpoche\, even if he were just reading a phone book! The Spirit of Dharma… it moves! \nSo\, are you ready to join Catherine Pawasarat Sensei for an eclectic weekend of “old school” style Dharma teachings? Wisdom invites you to learn on the path of riding the dragon\, come what may. \nAs you are well aware\, life is a great big journey into the unknown\, a Dharmic odyssey. This weekend is the same! Come to soak in Dharmic teachings from Catherine Sensei\, have fun\, and learn more about how to be the kind of being you want to be. As Bodhisattvas\, we keep on diving into learning how to be of service and help alleviate the suffering of beings. It’s an amazing ride\, and every opportunity to dive into the depth of Dharma is a precious one. How do we know what we need to hear—and when we hear it\, will we listen? There’s only one way to find out. \nTake a leap of faith. Join the Teacher. Join the spirit of integral evolution. We dare you! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei is a contemporary Dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine also draws on generative living and universal spiritual tools including transpersonal astrology and Japanese arts. \nShe trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan from 1998 until his passing in 2024\, in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. \nMore About Sensei | About the Lineage\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Details\n \nTime and Location\nAs the Spirit Moves will be led by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei at Clear Sky Meditation Center in Eastern BC. This course is offered in-person with an online option for those not in Western Canada. \nSchedule / Class Times\nClasses will be 60-90 mins in duration\, with classes in the morning and evening and possibly the afternoon each day (Mountain Time) – the exact schedule to be confirmed. Please ensure you are available for the whole weekend to focus on the course material and attend classes live. \nOnline participants\nare expected to attend classes live. We will arrange class times to be comfortable for most time zones. However we understand that some class times might occur after midnight in some regions\, if this is the case for you\, please let us know when you register. Then we can provide a recording so you can catch up on that particular class. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nIn-Person Participants: 1) dāna to the Teacher plus 2) accommodation and meal costs for your stay Clear Sky Meditation Centre. \nOnline Participants: 1) dāna to the Teacher 2) online administration fee of $150 CAD. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About DānaAbout the Online Admin Fee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nThe dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able \nTypically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course. \nAs we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us. \nConversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. \nLearn more about the practice of dāna here.\n \n \n \n \n \n In a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers\, and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online. The teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. \nThe admin fee goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. The admin fee changes based on date of registration. \n— \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings\, and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and video later\, and Amazon cloud)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nWe welcome any questions. May all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration\nImportant: Please register early. The Registration deadline is July 4th\, 2026. \n \n Registration Coming Soon\n \n \n \n \n \n Questions?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please contact the Clear Sky Retreat Manager at 250-429-3929  (phone) or at www.clearskycenter.org (contact form).\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Retreat In-Person?\n Retreating in person at a retreat center is the best way to retreat – why? \n\nYou can’t beat live interaction with the course Teachers. Being in the same space with clear beings ‘tunes’ you to more wholesome states.\nWe create a welcoming environment and follow a supportive retreat schedule\, based on decades of hosting successful retreats worldwide.\nWholesome and delicious food is provided so you don’t have to spend time cooking for yourself.\nBreath-taking and restful\, natural environment puts your body and mind at ease and resets your nervous system.\nRetreating at our center gets you out of your usual home environment and routines – they can be distracting.\nRetreating with others (your co-retreatants) is incredibly supportive and energy building.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We work hard to support the online learning experience.\n \nWe have been delivering online offerings since 2012 and are always looking for new ways to optimize your experience.\nClasses are live-streamed and some recordings are available for a certain time.\nHD cameras and professional audio equipment provide high quality video streaming.\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Do Previous Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n These are ancient teachings that I feel are important to understand if someone is serious about meditation. I appreciate Qapel and Sensei’s unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these life changing practices. They explore the rich history with us and also deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \nJenai LieuPsychology student\, CanadaWorking with Qapel and Sensei at the five day hero’s journey workshop was deeply impactful and has clarified not only my deepest heart’s desire\, but what I need to overcome to manifest it. They are extraordinary facilitators with a great depth of knowledge\, wisdom and presence to share. \nKira MacDuffeeM.Ed / RCCDoing karma yoga\, I watch how everyone gains new insights.  These many “a-ha moments” makes it clear to me that this type of active dharma training is a path that brings the modern spiritual explorer alive and moves them forward. \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive\, Clear Sky Accountability OfficerQapel and Sensei have consistently been honest\, accurate and candid with me. It has sometimes taken me years to admit my self-sabotaging blind spots. Clear and radical self-honesty liberates my sticky parts. Thank you to my master teachers for helping me free up all the energy knots – especially the ones created from unconscious patterning around money\, sex and power. \nEvangelos DiavolitsisMeditation Teacher and Coach\, Four Ways to Freedom. Italy\, Canada.Qapel and Sensei are always burning calories to get you back on a path that can lead toward greater self-awareness. When I am with these two very clear individuals\, I am humbled by their dedication to others\, and understand the every-waking-moment responsibility that comes with their calling. \nPeter UjlakiFine Art Dealer\, Japan URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/as-the-spirit-moves-2027/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR