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:America/Edmonton BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20220313T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20221106T080000 END:STANDARD 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:VTIMEZONE TZID:Asia/Tokyo BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0900 TZOFFSETTO:+0900 TZNAME:JST DTSTART:20220101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20220101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230721 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230724 DTSTAMP:20230709T065718Z CREATED:20230223T184727Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230709T065718Z UID:10000644-1689897600-1690156799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:As the Spirit Moves DESCRIPTION:As the Spirit Moves\n Online or In-Person | July 21-23\, 2023\n Show up for teachings from Qapel and find out what he’ll teach. It will be eclectic and sure to inspire. In the spirit of Guru Yoga – unorganised\, undetermined\, unregulated. No seatbelts allowed.  *Register as early as possible\, the deadline is July 14\, 2023.* \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: Stories from the Other Side\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Join Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) for an eclectic weekend of ‘old school’ style dharma teachings. In the past\, people ‘showed up’ for dharma teachings\, regardless of topic. The teachings given were inspired by the energy of the people there. \nIn the spirit of Guru Yoga this course will be relatively unorganised\, undetermined and unregulated. So\, think of this weekend like a challenge – what will happen if you have no idea what will be taught\, where the teachings might flow\, how the spirit will move? \nIn tantrayana\, guru yoga is considered the pinnacle practice – and our Western egos tend to have a hard time with this. So\, throw down the glove! Are you willing to take this leap of faith. Can your ego handle it? No seatbelts allowed.   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Course Details\n  \nTime and Location\nAs the Spirit Moves will be led by Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) at Clear Sky Meditation Center in Eastern BC. \nAn online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nIn-Person Participants: 1) dāna to the Teachers and 2) accomodation and meal costs for your stay Clear Sky Meditation Centre. \nOnline Participants: 1) dāna to the Teacher and 2) online administration fee of $150. \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 14th\, 2023. \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/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/2023-Programming-Horizontal.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20230722T083000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Tokyo:20230722T100000 DTSTAMP:20260518T112952Z CREATED:20230709T022500Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T112952Z UID:10000648-1690014600-1690020000@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Chenrezig (Avalokitesvara) Empowerment DESCRIPTION:Meditation on Compassion: Chenrezig Empowerment\n July 22nd\, 2023\, 8:30am\n How can one practice the qualities of compassion? Join us for a Chenrezig or Avalokiteshvara Empowerment ceremony given by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei in Kyoto Japan. \n OverviewRegister\n \n \n \n \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 on Compassion\nJoin a rare empowerment ceremony for the practice of Chenrezig or Avalokiteshvara in Kyoto\, Japan.\nThis empowerment in gives you an energetic blessing\, and access to practice mantra and visualisation of Chenrezig – a meditative practice on Compassion.  One of the foundational transcendental archetypes from the Himalayan schools of Buddhism\, Chenrezig (Tibetan) is also known as Avalokiteshvara (Sanskrit) and associated with Kannon in Japan and Guanyin in China.  \nYou may have heard of the ‘om mani padme hum’ mantra\, associated with Chenrezi in Tibet.   \nThis joyful empowerment will be given by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei in Kyoto Japan on July 22nd\, at 8:30am.  If this is your first initiation\, no problem\, we invite you to come to enjoy the experience with an open heart and mind. You can intend to continue the practice afterward\, or simply come for the blessing. \nCatherine Sensei speaks both English and Japanese. \n  \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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.  \nShe 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. \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 Meditation on Compassion\nChenrezig (Avalokiteshvara) Empowerment\nSaturday\, July 22nd\, 2023\, 8:30am \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration & Details\n\nThis empowerment is offered by  Catherine Sensei through the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. It is customary to offer Dana in the form of cash\, offered in an envelope to the Teacher during the empowerment ceremony. \nPre-Registration is Required to Attend: \n \n Click to Register\n \n \n \n \n \n Questions?\nPlease contact Sarah Brayer: Email: sarahbrayer@gmail.com. Phone: 075-711-7882. (Sarah speaks English and Japanese). \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Location in Kyoto\, Japan\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nThis ceremony is hosted by Sarah Brayer\, a long time meditation student in this lineage and member of the early Dharma Japan sangha. Email: sarahbrayer@gmail.com. Phone: 075-711-7882. (Sarah speaks English and Japanese).\nOpportunities to practice in community. Please connect with Sarah if you are interested in deepening your meditation practice with others.\nHow to get there: Download map with instructions:\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 are Vajrayana Empowerments (aka Wongkur)?\n \n \n \n \n \n Namgyal Rinpoche\, our lineage root guru\, put it best: \nIn the depth of the psyche lie all possibilities in a state of unrealized potential. In every being there exists the possibility of experiencing transcendental consciousness\, which when the student is ready\, the Teacher(s) can make accessible to him or her via empowerment\, initiation\, or wongkur. \nOne should regard Wongkur as an event in which the Lama sows the seed of transcendental consciousness in the depth of the student. The seed will lie in the unconscious until the student brings it to realization in the practice of meditation. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Other Reading: 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Dearest Cata Sensei\,\nTHANK YOU – for holding and shining the outstanding love\, care\, compassion and wisdom that you do. We are so grateful to have you in our lives and for your presence in this world of ours.\nMuch love\, gratitude and appreciation to you for the incredible woman\, teacher and human being your are. Thank you for being a true light and inspiration in this world. \nRuth LevinMFA\, Small Business Owner\, Movement Teacher & Performing ArtistCatherine Sensei is an excellent teacher with a gentle manner and a keen intellect and breadth of knowledge. \nDean Nicholson Executive DirectorIt is simply hard to put the ineffable to words. I don’t find meditation easy\, but I do find it worth it. I would not have dreamed that a 3 day online retreat could resolve complicated matters that I have wrestled with for years. Yet it did. Thank you\, Sensei. Thank you each one of you at Clear Sky. \nCheryl Bate Clinical Counsellor\, Private Practise\, Whistler\, BCCatherine Sensei is an inspiring model and teacher of Women in Buddhism. She deftly weaves context\, questions and her own experiences with wisdom\, curiosity and a stunning clarity. \nMichelle Heinz Integral CoachDear Catherine Sensei\, we are so blessed to have you as one of the dedicated teachers at Clear Sky. I admire your continued commitment to helping us and others on the planet and I am awed by your abilities.  \nDan O'BrianAuthor\, Japan SeriesDear Catherine Sensei\,\nThank you for your unwavering compassion and commitment to support and accelerate The unfoldment of all beings around you.\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 socialpreneur URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/chenrezig-avalokitesvara-kyoto-2023/ CATEGORIES:Public Classes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/f_chenregiz_5-web.jpg END:VEVENT 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;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230910T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230910T100000 DTSTAMP:20260602T115710Z CREATED:20230410T041351Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260602T115710Z UID:10000645-1694336400-1694340000@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Enlighten-Up! DESCRIPTION:Wisdom & Discernment\n \n An Enlighten-Up! Dharma Class \nEnlighten-Up! are uncompromising\, unflinching and kick-ass dharma classes.  Vajrayana Teachers Qapel and Sensei present a new topic several times per year.  Join online from anywhere in the world.   \n 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 This month’s topic: \nWisdom and Discerment\nThe law of karma states that a result can’t be different than its cause. How do you make decisions with clarity and discernment? Qapel and Sensei will be giving a public dharma talk on Wisdom and Discernment on September 10th at 9am MST. Online or in-person. \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Enlighten-Up!?\nDharma Talks for 21st Century Life\nThe word ‘Dharma’ has many meanings\, one being the ultimate truths of reality\, and the universal laws of awakening.  That’s lovely\, but how do you bring these ancient perspectives into 21st century life? \nThese dharma classes are a way to bring kick-ass\, applicable dharma into your life.  Tune in to higher truths\, with real-life Dharma teachers from wherever you might be in the world. \nQapel and Sensei are offering these classes several times a year on different topics. Themes will be thought provoking\, inspiring and designed to ‘enlighten-up’ your world.  In a world that has a tendency to ‘dumb down’ the complexities of wisdom\, we promise not to. \nThere will also be an opportunity to share in small groups and to ask questions at the end of the class. \nVideo recordings are available for one week for those who cannot attend live. \nThese Enlighten-Up classes are 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 \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 the Teachers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Qapel Doug Duncan\n \n (1949 - 2024) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Qapel and Catherine Pawasarat are our Dharma and meditation teachers\, who founded Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, BC\, Canada. \nQapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) passed away in October 2024 after leading the Movement of the Mandala\, an epic somatic Western Mysteries retreat\, which was also the first retreat he ever attended with his teacher\, Namgyal Rinpoche. Qapel received lay ordination from Namgyal in 1978\, and was a lineage holder in that teaching. Known for his direct\, humorous and compassionate engagement with students\, Doug embraced various traditions\, contemporary psychology\, and science\, and tirelessly and compassionately mentored all beings he encountered to a more awakened state. We feel grateful that he invested much of his energy into ensuring that his students would be well prepared for his passing. \nCatherine Pawasarat trained daily with Acariya Doug Duncan since 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 just before his passing in 2003. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Catherine Sensei also draws on Japanese Shinto\, shamanism\, the power of nature\, and the importance of integrating spiritual practices together with social impact. Qapel recognized her as his spiritual heir and she’s committed to continuing his legacy\, sharing these contemporary and planetary teachings of spiritual awakening\, and developing Clear Sky Retreat Center as a beacon of 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 Course Details\nFees and Dāna\nThese sessions are offered based on the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. \nRegistration\nTo attend\, you must register via the button below. These dharma classes are typically held once a month\, with the exception of when the Teachers are travelling or teaching another course. \nWe recommend you attend live\, but if you cannot\, the video recording will be available for one week after the live session.  The live session includes time for a short sharing/ community discussion and Q&A.\n \n Register Now URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/wisdom-sept-2023/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Public Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/enlighten-up-ver.1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230923 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230925 DTSTAMP:20260518T112707Z CREATED:20230821T185236Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T112707Z UID:10000649-1695427200-1695599999@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Spiritual Awakening\, Healing & Ecological Restoration: A Buddhist Mystic Perspective DESCRIPTION:Spiritual Awakening\, Healing & Ecological Restoration \n A Buddhist Mystic Perspective\n What’s the connection between Buddhist-style enlightenment and the environment? \nJoin Catherine Pawasarat Sensei at the 39th annual Women & Spirituality Conference in Minnesota US\, Sept 23-24th\, 2023. She will be presenting on September 24th\, 2:30pm Central Time. \nOnline or In-Person tickets to the conference are available. \n  \n Register 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 2023 Women & Spirituality Conference Presentation \nSpiritual Awakening\, Healing & Ecological Restoration: A Buddhist Mystic Perspective\nwith Catherine Pawasarat\n \n \n \n \n \n Spiritual Awakening\, Healing & Ecological Restoration: A Buddhist Mystic Perspective\nWhat’s the connection between Buddhist-style enlightenment and the environment? The historical Buddha experienced enlightenment while sitting beneath a bodhi tree\, while some Buddhist sects still emphasize the value of practicing in forests. \nHow does Buddhist enlightenment connect with healing\, ecology\, and nature mysticism? Other spiritual traditions? \nLearn from Catherine Sensei’s experiences and have an opportunity to share your own in small groups. \nCatherine Sensei will be at the conference the Women & Spirituality conference for the whole weekend\, Sept 23-24th. She will be joined by Karen McAllister and Dan O’Brien\, representing Clear Sky Meditation Centre. They will be at a combined Planet Dharma and Clear Sky Meditation Centre booth. Come say hi! \nPresentation: Sunday 24th\, 2:30-4pm (Central Daylight Saving Time). \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat was a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts in Kyoto\, Japan for 20 years. \nSince 1998 she has trained daily with Buddhist teacher Achariya Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that’s rare in the modern West. Transmitted from the remarkable Namgyal Rinpoche\, they are both lineage holders of these teachings. \nWith Doug\, she is co-founder and resident teacher at Clear Sky Retreat Center in the British Columbia Rockies. There Catherine has spearheaded an innovative and sustainability-oriented culture and organization. Together Doug and Catherine also teach through a virtual vehicle\, Planet Dharma. In 2018 they wrote the best-selling book Wasteland to Pureland. \nCatherine has recently written and published the first English guidebook to Kyoto’s famous Gion Festival\, a gigantic collection of ancient and diverse spiritual rituals.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 the Conference\nThis presentation by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei is part of the 39th Annual Women & Spirituality Conference in Rochester Minnesota\, USA: \nThe Women and Spirituality Conference is a two day multi-faith gathering celebrating diversity\, inclusion\, spiritual experience and healing. Register now for two days of interactive\, experiential workshops with our engaging leaders and speakers. We recognize differing learning styles and strive to make this conference accessible to all. \nVisit the exhibitor / vendor area for more opportunities for healing\, growth and personal illumination with our readers\, healers and wellness team. \nRegistration\nTo attend\, please register via the buttons below. The online option is $69 and the in-person ticket is $149 (USD). These tickets give access to the whole conference and speakers\, including Catherine Sensei’s presentation. We also invite you to practice generosity\, or Dāna  to Catherine Sensei directly here: Offer Dāna \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Green Tara Guided Meditation\n by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | Tantra Visualization \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Green Tara Guided Meditation (Free Audio)\nAdd your information below to receive the guided meditation of Green Tara and other dharma content from Planet Dharma. This Green Tara sadhana is shared by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. When you join our list\, we will be kind to your inbox. \n\n \n LinkedInThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.First Name*Email Address*\n \n Sign-up Location\n Listen 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 \n \n \n Troubleshooting: Sometimes this button may not look like you’ve pushed it. However\, once you’ve pushed the submit button\, the opt in fields will turn grey and we have received your request.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/women-spirituality-conference-2023/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Public Classes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/IMG_8045.jpeg 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:20231112 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20231211 DTSTAMP:20260430T121808Z CREATED:20221201T234414Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T121808Z UID:10000637-1699747200-1702252799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Warriors of the Heart: The Bodhisattva Path (Online Course) DESCRIPTION:Warriors of the Heart: The Bodhisattva Path \n Five Weeks|Online Course\n November 12 – December 10\, 2023 \nThe world is on fire\, literally. Mental health crises are the norm while capitalism crumbles and the environment degrades. With this struggle right in front of us\, how can we respond? How can we best serve all beings?  In this course\, we will explore the age old way of the Bodhisattva – a well tread path for courageous warriors of the heart. \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 The Bodhisattva vow:\n\nHowever innumerable beings are\, I vow to meet them with kindness and interest.However inexhaustible the states of suffering are\, I vow to touch them with patience and love.However incomparable the mystery of being is\, I vow to experience it fully.From this moment forth\, with wisdom and compassion as my lamp and staff\, I dedicate all my life energy to the welfare of all beings. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \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 does the Bodhisattva vow manifest in your life in the world?\nMany of us are familiar with or recite the Bodhisattva vow regularly. It may even be our lifelong vow. And yet\, you may be asking yourself: How does this profound vow translate to various complex situations in life? \nTake heart. The way of the Bodhisattva is an actual path that beings have journeyed for over a millenia. Shantideva\, a prince that gave up his throne\, is one noble example. In this course we will learn from such experiences and apply them to our modern context. \nJust like Shantideva in the 8th century\, we all ask how our practice can be meaningful when there’s so much suffering in the world. We learn variations of how to relate to cultural and generational forms of struggle—like social justice\, climate change\, and war. We can study the path of the Bodhisattva to help us skillfully respond to our questions and uncertainty. Is it possible that these questions\, and the path\, may be more applicable than ever? \n \n \n \n \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 Study The Path of the Bodhisattva?\n \n \n \n \n \n \nMy body\, every possession and all goodness\, past\, present and future\, without remorse I dedicate to the well-being of the world. \n\n–Shantideva\, in Bodhicaryavatara (The Way of the Bodhisattva) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The world is on fire…\nThe world is on fire\, literally. Mental health crises are the norm while capitalism crumbles and the environment degrades. With this struggle right in front of us\, how can we respond? How can we best serve all beings? In this course\, we will explore the age old way of the Bodhisattva – a well tread path for courageous warriors of the heart. \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Learning Goals\n \n\nWhat is the historical path of the Bodhisattva\, inspired by Shantideva from the 8th century?\nDo I wish to take such a vow\, and if so\, what does that actually mean?\nHow can I approach the many forms of suffering in the world—war\, environmental disaster\, social injustice—from the perspective of the Bodhisattva path? \nHow does Bodhisattva activity translate to the various situations and contexts of modern life?\nWhere does the Bodhisattva path sit within the Theravadin\, Mahayana\, and Vajrayana traditions of Buddhism?\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Recommended Reading\nThe Way of the Bodhisattva by Shantideva \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nCourse Schedule\nNovember 12  – December 10\, 2023\n\n\nAll Teachings will be on Sundays\nNew Format: Morning Class\, 9:30am Mountain Time\n\nSunday November 12 – 9:30-11am\nSunday November 19 – 9:30-11am\nSunday November 26 – 9:30-11am\nSunday December 3 – 9:30-11am\n\nThe formal and participatory teachings for this course will occur on four Sundays. There will be a live group class in the morning\, 9:30-11am MT\, though the timing could be subject to change. \nWe encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \nFlash Retreat Weekend: December 9-10\nTo deepen and integrate your experience\, the final weekend during the course will also be a Flash Retreat (Dec 9-10). This can be done at home\, or with us at Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, in Eastern British Columbia. We highly recommend clearing your schedule over the weekend to focus on the retreat. Formal group sessions will be held at these times: \n\nFlash Retreat morning group workshop: 9:30-10:30am\nFlash Retreat afternoon group workshop: 2:30-3:30pm\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \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 Course Details\nTime and Location\nEach of the four weekly classes in this online course will be video streamed live at 9:30-11am MST. The recording will be available for one week after each class. We encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \nThe course culminates with a Flash Retreat on December 9-10\, 2023\, with formal workshop times held at 9:30-10:30am and 2:30-3:30pm Mountain Time on Saturday and Sunday. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nThis course is offered based on the unique combination of: \n1) dāna\, and2) a $80-120 USD administrative fee. \nRegister four+ weeks prior: $80Register two to four weeks prior: $100Register less than two weeks prior: $120 \nClick on the tabs below to learn more: \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. However\, 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. \nIf 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\, the costs of setting up good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online can be surprising. \nOur admin fee changes based on the date of registration. \nRegister four + weeks prior: $80 Register two to four weeks prior: $100Register less than two weeks prior: $120 \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Flash Retreat in community: students at Clear Sky Centre and online\, learning together. \n \n \n \n \n \n Register Now:\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 This kind of Dharma is much needed\, practical and insightful. It is something we need in our modern society where everyone is trying to get ahead of others. Learning with Qapel and Sensei helps me see clearly\, lead genuinely and be more willing to step into the unknown\, to serve others and to learn. \nBat FungSoftware Engineer. Toronto\, CanadaQapel and Sensei teach in a light but profound way – taking us on a brilliant journey of understanding with guile and humour.\nMale and female perspectives help balance with differing approaches. Explaining a complex but genius system that holds all life understanding from religion\, science\, psychotherapy and wisdom traditions is not easy. I think Ken Wilber would have enjoyed it.  \nJonathan Clifford Shiatsu\, Qigong & Meditation Teacher URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/path-of-the-bodhisattva/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/23.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240114 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240205 DTSTAMP:20260604T111223Z CREATED:20230924T170432Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T111223Z UID:10000651-1705190400-1707091199@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Multiple Realities: Bardos & Beyond (4 Week Online Course) DESCRIPTION:Multiple Realities: The Bardos & Beyond\n Online Course | Four Weeks\n January 14 – February 4\, 2024 \nWe struggle because we are habitually locked in fixed views of self\, other and the world. Studying the various ‘bardos’ or multiple realities of experience helps loosen the limiting blinders of our ego’s perceptions. By expanding our conceptions and perceptions\, we can get unstuck from fixed views\, rigidity and conventionality. Greater joy\, freedom and awe ensues! Join us for this first online course of 2024. \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 Studying Bardos:\nPerhaps you are interested in altered states. Or you have heard about the bardos of death and dying described in Tibetan buddhism. In this course\, we will explore the six traditional bardos and also go to the core of that teaching – something less talked about – how every moment is a bardo or transition. \nThe six traditional bardos described in Vajrayana teachings are: \n\nWaking consciousness\nDream\nMeditation\nDeath\nDharmata \nRebirth\n\nThese six bardos are also a window into seeing the nature of bardos within all moments\, transitions and iterruptions of life – drastically altering our limited ego perceptions and concepts. We will also study language – particularly how we map our realities of self through language and how we get locked into predictable patterns. \nThrough this study and practice\, by seeing the stuckness of our thinking and perceptions\, we begin to loosen our tight sense of who we are. Greater freedom\, compassion and clarity results. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bardos is about realms.Altered state realms.“In between.” \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bardos: Getting Clearer on Self and Non-Self\nThe human ego says “I am me” and thinks of itself as living in a continuum of this ‘me-ness’. But if we look closer\, we will discover that this perception is not accurate. Instead\, we will see there is actually a continuum of experience and altered states\, one that the ego habitually and mistakenly claims as its own. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  Course Learning Goals\n \n\nTo investigate the bardos and what they can teach us about ordinary life\, death and impermanence. \nTo expand our perception of the many bardos of life\, and how to live more fully in the present moment. \nTraining to leave behind fixed partial views and develop a more complete “viewing” of what actually is. \nTo dismantle\, question and analyze the sense of ‘self’ and how it is created through language. \nTo develop a deeper understanding of the many realms and so-called ‘altered states’ accessible to our human consciousness.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Recommended Bardos Learning:\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n PODCAST: Consciousness Continues: Navigating Death\, Rebirth and the Bardos\nThe following recording is a talk that Doug ‘Qapel’ Duncan gave on the topic of death\, dying and the bardos. In the talk\, he explores how we really experience a death in every moment\, and describes in detail the steps in the death process and how consciousness finds its way to its next rebirth. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n VIDEO: Vajrayana Buddhism and the Life\, Death and Rebirth Bardos\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Listen to Doug Qapel Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei speak on Vajrayana Buddhism and the bardos of life\, death and rebirth. This talk was hosted by Emmanuel College of Victoria University at the University of Toronto\, on February 6th 2021. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nCourse Schedule\nJanuary 14  – February 4\, 2024\n\n\nClass Times (Mountain Time)\n\nSunday January 14 – 9:30-11am\nSunday January 21 – 9:30-11am\nSunday January 28 – 9:30-11am\nSaturday & Sunday February 3-4th – 9:30 and 2:30pm (approx 60-90 mins length)\n\nThe formal and participatory teachings for this course will occur on Sundays with a Saturday-Sunday flash retreat on the fourth weekend.  Class times are estimates and may change slightly. \nWe encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \n      Flash Retreat Weekend: February 3-4\nTo deepen and integrate your experience\, the final (fourth) weekend during the course will also be a Flash Retreat (Feb 3-4). This can be done at home\, or with us at Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, in Eastern British Columbia. We highly recommend clearing your schedule over the weekend to focus on the retreat. Formal group sessions will be held at these times (durations are approximate): \n\nFlash Retreat morning group classes: 9:30am\nFlash Retreat afternoon group workshop: 2:30pm\nsessions duration approx 60-90 mins  \n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \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 Course Details\n\nTime and Location\nEach of the four weekly classes in this online course will be streamed live at 9:30-11am MST.  We ask participants to attend live whenever possible. The recording of each class will be available for one week after each class. We encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \nThe course culminates with a Flash Retreat on February 3-4\, 2024\, with formal workshop times held at 9:30am and 2:30pm Mountain Time on Saturday and Sunday. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nThis course is offered based on the unique combination of: \n1) dāna\, and2) a $80-120 USD administrative fee: \n\nRegister by December 17 2023: $80\nRegister by December 31 2023: $100\nRegister less than two weeks prior: $120\n\nClick on the tabs below to learn more: \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. However\, 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. \nIf 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\, the costs of setting up good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online can be surprising. \nOur admin fee changes based on the date of registration. \nRegister four + weeks prior: $80 Register two to four weeks prior: $100Register less than two weeks prior: $120 \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Flash Retreat in community: students at Clear Sky Centre and online\, learning together. \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 This kind of Dharma is much needed\, practical and insightful. It is something we need in our modern society where everyone is trying to get ahead of others. Learning with Qapel and Sensei helps me see clearly\, lead genuinely and be more willing to step into the unknown\, to serve others and to learn. \nBat FungSoftware Engineer. Toronto\, CanadaQapel and Sensei teach in a light but profound way – taking us on a brilliant journey of understanding with guile and humour.\nMale and female perspectives help balance with differing approaches. Explaining a complex but genius system that holds all life understanding from religion\, science\, psychotherapy and wisdom traditions is not easy. I think Ken Wilber would have enjoyed it.  \nJonathan Clifford Shiatsu\, Qigong & Meditation Teacher URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/multiple-realities-bardos-course-2024/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/7.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:20240324 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240325 DTSTAMP:20260602T115243Z CREATED:20240208T185619Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260602T115243Z UID:10000657-1711238400-1711324799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:AstroDharma Community Call DESCRIPTION:AstroDharma Community Call\n Online |March 24\, 2024\, 10am MT\n Are you a current or previous student of AstroDharma studies with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei? If so\, Sensei invites you to join a community call to deepen your work with this tool that bridges Western transpersonal astrology and the wisdom of Buddhadharma. This Community Call is an opportunity to have your own AstroDharma questions answered and benefit from hearing the questions of others in the community. \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  AstroDharma Community Call\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register Now\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n After a successful pilot event in the fall of 2023 with participants from last summer’s weekend intensive\, we are hosting another community Q&A call with Sensei on March 24\, 2024 and extending an invitation to the wider AstroDharma community.  \nWHAT IS A COMMUNITY CALL? \nWe know how helpful it can be to engage with others while we are learning. Working away on any self-study course alone can be challenging\, especially in an interactive and relational subject like AstroDharma. We imagine you might have some burning questions to ask that have been sparked by the material you’ve covered so far. The AstroDharma Community Call is an opportunity to explore your AstroDharma questions as a group. Students are invited to submit their questions in advance and Sensei will offer her unique wisdom and guidance in person at the event. \nWHAT IS ASTRODHARMA? \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei developed AstroDharma as a unique tool that synthesizes Buddhist teachings on spiritual awakening with Western Astrology. \n \n \n \n \n \n In the following short video\, Sensei talks about how to get the most out of AstroDharma and what makes her approach unique: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Buddharma and Western Astrology are powerful systems that can be applied to help us better understand ourselves and the archetypal patterns in our lives. The invitation to “Know Thyself” remains at the core of western philosophy while the Buddhist meditation system offers us a map of consciousness that liberates us from identifying with a literal\, fixed self. Working in the signature Planet Dharma universalist approach\, Sensei guides us through an interpretation of the natal astrological chart by applying Buddhist wisdom so we can transform our lives.  \nThis lens empowers us to recognize not only our own patterns and values but also those of others. The wisdom that ripens as a result leads us right into the magic of transformation. AstroDharma offers a unique path for the present day spiritual explorer to engage with the symbolic energies of astrology. \nJoin us in a community exploration of how to apply AstroDharma in our lives. Come and gain new tools to meet challenges and free up energy in your being! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Want to Study AstroDharma?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you’re not enrolled yet\,  we invite you to enrol in Intro to AstroDharma. \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 Community Call Details\nTime and Location\nThis online community call will take place at 10am Mountain Time on March 24th.  Please arrive to the Zoom call a few minutes early so we can start on time.  \nParticipants are expected to attend the call live.  We have arranged class times to be comfortable for most time zones. However we understand that in certain time zones\, the call might occur after midnight in some regions\, so if this is the case for you\, please let us know when you register. Then we can provide a recording. \nWhile this offering has been created to support those who have already participated in the self-study course or past astrodharma retreats\, if you feel this event is a good fit for you\, please email chris@planetdharma.com to request permission to join.  \nRecommended: Contemplate your learning so far\, and reflect on any burning questions related to AstroDharma\, particularly with practical application to your life. A link to our Q&A submission form will be provided upon registration; you are invited to submit your questions there. \nMore details will be sent to you upon registration. \nWhat Does the Call Cost?\nThis call is offered by dāna to the Teacher: \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\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 \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration\n \n \n Register Now\n \n \n \n \n \n Questions?\nIf you have questions about this community call\, please contact the Planet Dharma Registrar: registrar@planetdharma.com \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:\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 \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 EmailThis 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-community-2024/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Public Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/AstroD-Community-Call.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240414 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240506 DTSTAMP:20260522T113349Z CREATED:20231218T004756Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260522T113349Z UID:10000655-1713052800-1714953599@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:From Ordinary to Extraordinary: Walking the Eightfold Noble Path DESCRIPTION:From Ordinary to Extraordinary: Walking the Eightfold Noble Path\n Online Course | Four Weeks\n April 14 – May 5\, 2024The Eightfold Noble path is about methodology—walking the talk. And what is the talk that this Buddhist wisdom ennobles us to walk? Freedom. Compassion. Wisdom. As applicable now as 2\,500 years ago\, when the Buddha first taught it. \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 Walking the Eightfold Noble and Ennobling Path\nWe want peace and harmony—well-being? Wholeness? What about… emptiness? Whatever we think and say we want—which at our core is all the same—how do we put all the talk and philosophy into place in a meaningful\, practical\, and grounded way in our lives? \nThe 8 steps of the eightfold path are: \n\nRight View: sammā-diṭṭhi\nRight Intention: sammā-saṅkappa\nRight Speech: sammā-vācā\nRight Action: sammā-kammanta\nRight Livelihood: sammā-ājīva\nRight Effort: sammā-vāyāma\nRight Mindfulness: sammā-sati\nRight Concentration: sammā-samādhi\n\nThough the word ‘sammā’ is often translated as “right\,” the original Pali could be better translated as “complete” or total. The Western mind is quite steeped in notions of “good” and “bad\,” “right” and “wrong”—but this idea of “complete” is more about wholeness. The eightfold path is something we practice and develop over time for an ever more complete understanding or embodiment of that quality—from Complete View to Complete Concentration. We like to use the image of a mandala as an example: your being is a mandala\, but you’re most likely only seeing and manifesting certain\, fragmented parts\, where the Eightfold Path gets you to the whole picture. \nOur thinking and perceptions get us stuck. Through this study\, the practice of this Path\, and by really seeing the stuckness of our patterns\, we will begin to loosen our tight sense of who we are. The results? Greater freedom\, compassion\, and clarity. From ordinary to extraordinary. It’s a win-win. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Complete Living\nLiving in accordance with truth means living by the laws of nature. The human task of awakening is to realign with nature and its laws. To do so\, we have to work with our views\, our livelihood\, and our speech. \nBy seeking the best state of being\, and the best supporting conditions for that state of being\, we can see through what the consumer marketplace usually offers: second-rate goods dressed up to be shiny and appealing. The best life we can live is one that is complete\, in its integrity. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nCourse Schedule\nApril 14  – May 5\, 2024\n\n\nClass Times (Mountain Time)\n\nSunday April 14 – 9:30-11am\nSunday April 21 – 9:30-11am\nSunday April 28 – 9:30-11am\nSaturday & Sunday May 4-5th – 9:30am and 2:30pm (approx 60-90 min classes)\n\nThe formal and participatory teachings for this course will occur on Sundays with a Saturday-Sunday flash retreat on the fourth weekend.  Class times are estimates and may change slightly. \nWe encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \n      Flash Retreat Weekend: May 4 – 5th\nTo deepen and integrate your experience\, the final (fourth) weekend during the course will also be a Flash Retreat (May 4 – 5). This can be done at home\, or with us at Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, in Eastern British Columbia. We highly recommend clearing your schedule over the weekend to focus on the retreat. Formal group sessions will be held at these approximate times. \n\nFlash Retreat morning session: 9:30am MT\nFlash Retreat afternoon session: 2:30pm MT\nSessions will be 60-90 mins in length.\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \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 Qapel 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 Course Details\n\nTime and Location\nEach of the four weekly classes in this online course will be streamed live at 9:30-11am MST.  We ask participants to attend live whenever possible. The recording of each class will be available for one week after each class. We encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \nThe course culminates with a Flash Retreat on May 4-5\, 2024\, with formal group session times held at approx 9:30am and 2:30pm Mountain Time on Saturday and Sunday\, with a 60-90 min duration. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nThis course is offered based on the unique combination of: \n1) dāna\, and2) a $80-120 USD administrative fee: \n\nRegister by March 17 2024: $80\nRegister by March 31 2024: $100\nRegister less than two weeks prior: $120\n\nClick on the tabs below to learn more: \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. However\, 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. \nIf 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\, the costs of setting up good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online can be surprising. \nOur admin fee changes based on the date of registration. \nRegister four + weeks prior: $80 Register two to four weeks prior: $100Register less than two weeks prior: $120 \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Flash Retreat in community: students at Clear Sky Centre and online\, learning together. \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 This kind of Dharma is much needed\, practical and insightful. It is something we need in our modern society where everyone is trying to get ahead of others. Learning with Qapel and Sensei helps me see clearly\, lead genuinely and be more willing to step into the unknown\, to serve others and to learn. \nBat FungSoftware Engineer. Toronto\, CanadaQapel and Sensei teach in a light but profound way – taking us on a brilliant journey of understanding with guile and humour.\nMale and female perspectives help balance with differing approaches. Explaining a complex but genius system that holds all life understanding from religion\, science\, psychotherapy and wisdom traditions is not easy. I think Ken Wilber would have enjoyed it.  \nJonathan Clifford Shiatsu\, Qigong & Meditation Teacher URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/eightfold-noble-path-course-2024/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2024-PD-Courses-Facebook-Covers.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:20241110 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241202 DTSTAMP:20260418T073549Z CREATED:20240118T233808Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260418T073549Z UID:10000656-1731196800-1733097599@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:The Power of Sangha & Group Guru DESCRIPTION:The Power of Sangha & Group Guru \n Online Course | Four Weeks\n November 10 – December 1\, 2024 \nSangha are the people working alongside you to wake up. Group Guru is the network of the Awakened Mind showing up in teams and conscious community. We can—and must—use each other to pull ourselves out of the mires of suffering. In this modern approach to sangha and group guru\, we will look at the interplay between the collective\, the individual and liberation. \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 The Power of Sangha & Group Guru\n \n \n \n \n \n The Buddha’s beloved student Ananda asked\, it seems good friends are perhaps half of the path? And the Buddha responded\, No\, Ananda. Good friends are the whole path. \nIs conscious community a preference\, or a necessity? How do we develop powerful spiritual communities that bring us forward in a meaningful way? In this modern course we will explore just this\, looking at the power of sangha and group guru. \nThere is interplay between the collective and the individual when it comes to liberation. Let’s explore it here\, together. \nWe each get trapped in our own bias. Our lineage Teacher the Venerable Namgyal Rinpoche said it is hard for Westerners to awaken because the self\, the great individual\, is such an important part of the game. In the West\, we tend to avoid community\, avoid surrendering to collective needs\, or mistrust that we will be subsumed by ignorant ‘group think’. \nAnd yet\, sangha is something that nature knows intimately. Community is at the root of the great flourishings of humanity. Spiritual communities in the East have worked in community in the monastery setting; community is a hallmark of all time-tested spiritual tradition and practice. Today’s question is\, how do we also honor the role and uniqueness of the individual\, within a collective approach to awakening and healing?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Power of Sangha\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n Do you want to be part of thriving\, conscious community that values people above profit? Does living and working with people who also value spiritual growth and awakening sound appealing? We think it’s wonderful\, and beyond that\, what humanity is destined for. \nAnd\, it’s not easy. We need seriously effective tools to help integrate our spiritual ideals with the real world. Everyday life—including people\, and their personalities—are always human. They require grit. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  Course Learning Goals\n \n\nFor what reason was Sangha (Spiritual Community) highlighted as one of the Triple Gems alongside the Buddha (Teachers of Awakening) and Dharma (The Teachings and Practices of Liberation)?\nWhat are our common challenges and fears around collective and community today?  \nWhat are ways we can better contribute\, grow and develop effective spiritual communities that we actually want to be a meaningful part of?\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Recommended Reading:\nWe Started Our Own Conscious Community 20 Years Ago\, Here’s Our Advice. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nCourse Schedule\nNovember 10 – December 1\, 2024\n\n\nClass Times (Mountain Time)\n\nSunday November 10 – 9:30-11am\nSunday November 17 – 9:30-11am\nSunday November 24 – 9:30-11am\nFlash Retreat*: Saturday & Sunday Nov 30-Dec 1 – 9:30am and 2:30pm\n\nThe formal and participatory teachings for this course will occur on Sundays with a Saturday-Sunday flash retreat on the fourth weekend.  Class times are estimates and may change slightly. \nWe encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \n     * Flash Retreat Weekend: Nov 30-Dec 1\nTo deepen and integrate your experience\, the final (fourth) weekend during the course will also be a Flash Retreat (Nov 30-Dec 1). This can be done at home\, or with us at Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, in Eastern British Columbia. We highly recommend clearing your schedule over the weekend to focus on the retreat.  Group sessions will be held at 9:30am and 2:30pm on Saturday and Sunday\, with sessions approximately 60-90 mins in duration. \n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \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 Sensei\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Qapel Doug Duncan\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Qapel and Catherine Sensei are Dharma and meditation teachers who founded Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, BC\, Canada. \nQapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) co-created this course with Catherine Sensei prior to his passing on October 5th\, 2024. Since his passing\, we have witnessed the invaluable role that Sangha plays in supporting each other through challenging times. In honour of Qapel\, we are choosing to move ahead with this course so that we may support each other more deeply and feel connecting to his teachings during this time.  \nCatherine Sensei 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 Qapel she was 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 Course Details\n\nTime and Location\nEach of the four weekly classes in this online course will be streamed live at 9:30-11am MST.  We ask participants to attend live whenever possible. The recording of each class will be available for one week after each class. We encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \nThe course culminates with a Flash Retreat on November 30 – December 1\, 2024\, with formal workshop times held at 9:30-10:30am and 2:30-3:30pm Mountain Time on Saturday and Sunday. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nThis course is offered based on the unique combination of: \n1) dāna\, and2) a $80-120 USD administrative fee: \n\nRegister by October 13 2024: $80\nRegister by November 3 2024: $100\nRegister less than two weeks prior: $120\n\nClick on the tabs below to learn more: \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. However\, 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. \nIf 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\, the costs of setting up good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online can be surprising. \nOur admin fee changes based on the date of registration. \nRegister four + weeks prior: $80 Register two to four weeks prior: $100Register less than two weeks prior: $120 \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 Register Now\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Flash Retreat in community: students at Clear Sky Centre and online\, learning together. \n \n Register Now\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 kind of Dharma is much needed\, practical and insightful. It is something we need in our modern society where everyone is trying to get ahead of others. Learning with Qapel and Sensei helps me see clearly\, lead genuinely and be more willing to step into the unknown\, to serve others and to learn. \nBat FungSoftware Engineer. Toronto\, CanadaQapel and Sensei teach in a light but profound way – taking us on a brilliant journey of understanding with guile and humour.\nMale and female perspectives help balance with differing approaches. Explaining a complex but genius system that holds all life understanding from religion\, science\, psychotherapy and wisdom traditions is not easy. I think Ken Wilber would have enjoyed it.  \nJonathan Clifford Shiatsu\, Qigong & Meditation Teacher URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/the-power-of-sangha-group-guru/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/group-guru-new-no-caption.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:20241224 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241225 DTSTAMP:20241222T015450Z CREATED:20241219T180013Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241222T015450Z UID:10000666-1734998400-1735084799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Qapel: Life and Teachings Christmas Celebration DESCRIPTION:Qapel: Life and Teachings Christmas Celebration\nOnline. 2:30-4pm MST. \nAs we come close to three months since Qapel passing\, join us for a special online party on Christmas Eve to celebrate Qapel’s life and teachings\, including sharings of archive photos from early days in Japan and beyond from Catherine Sensei. \n \n Register here URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/qapel-life-and-teachings-christmas-celebration/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Public Talk ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC00038-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250112 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250203 DTSTAMP:20260326T111525Z CREATED:20240509T165755Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T111525Z UID:10000659-1736640000-1738540799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Waking Up & Growing Up: Integral Buddhism DESCRIPTION:Integral Evolution: Waking Up & Growing Up\n Online Course | Four Weeks\n January 12-February 2\, 2025Along with the work of waking up—cultivating an enlightened state—we also need to do the work of growing up. This means learning to integrate the clear state into the world through doing our shadow work\, developing our communication\, and doing all the critical development work to be a fully integrated human being. In this course we explore the elements of a fit and dynamic vehicle for 21st-century awakening\, and beyond. \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 Waking Up and Growing Up\n\nThe stage of growing up that you are at is incredibly important because it will determine your waking up experience. \n— Ken Wilber\, Finding Radical Wholeness \n\nAs we go deeper into the 21st-century we are seeing a new turning of the Wheel of Dharma – a radical evolution of Buddhism and spiritual teachings. The last major evolution in Buddhist Dharma was more than 1\,000 years ago with Vajrayana\, the third turn of the wheel. Now with psychology\, Integral spirituality\, and science\, something new is emerging. \nIn addition to awakening\, “waking up\,” we also need to work on growing up\, both individually and collectively. How do we integrate our awakening state in our modern world? What do we need to do with our shadow? Which stages of human development do we need to be aware of\, and work through? The days of meditating in a cave for decades are over. We have to grow up and integrate into the fold of an evolving global ecosystem that needs our commitment\, together. \nJoin us for this trailblazing four-week course. Together we will explore the emerging elements of a fit and dynamic vehicle for 21st-century awakening\, and beyond—a spiritual vehicle which must evolve as rapidly as evolution itself. We must learn how to keep up! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  Integral Spirituality\nIntegral Spirituality was coined by Ken Wilber\, an internationally acknowledged leader and the preeminent scholar of the Integral stages of human development. In his many books\, he writes that traditional Buddhist teachings themselves suggest an ongoing evolution leading toward a more unified\, holistic\, and interconnected spirituality. He describes the ways in which the tradition has been open to the continuous unfolding and expansion of its own teachings\, and he suggests possible paths toward an ever more Integral approach. \nWe agree! \nIn this course\, we are excited to be taking this work forward and translating it practically\, based on our lineage’s working experience of modern spiritual community. \nIntegral Spirituality by Wilber is a prerequisite read for the course. Please start by reading the Appendix as we have found it is clearer this way. \n \n \n \n \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 Grow up?\nAs spiritual seekers we might feel that waking up is enough – that experiencing absolute truth will solve all our problems and we will be bright shiney beings without problems or interpersonal issues. The thing is\, we also live in the relative world. Spending time on cleaning up and growing up increases our range and freedom – it is how we can genuinely cultivate the art of living. How do we live in more integrated\, generative way? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Application\nThis course will be about the application of integral so we can actually work with it and evolve with it. We know that the ‘map’ or theory is not the territory or real work\, so we’ll use this course to keep it real and explore the terrain. Think of it as a virtual dharma trip as we travel some shared lands and keep the teaching real. \nThis also means shining light onto shadow aspects of our consciousnessess – what aren’t we seeing? How can we help each really meet our current stage of development and do the work required in that stage? \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Working with the shadow\n“It’s important that we are clear and honest: by its very nature\, shadow work is not fun or pretty. It takes courage and fortitude to see parts of our being that are not like we wish them to be\, and to dedicate one’s energy to transforming that.” \n-Qapel & Sensei on Integrating the Shadow \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nCourse Schedule\nJanuary 12 – Feb 2\, 2025\n\n\nClass Times (Mountain Time)\n\nSunday January 12 – 9:30-11am\nSunday January 19 – 9:30-11am\nSunday January 26 – 9:30-11am\nSaturday & Sunday February 1-2 – 9:30am and 2:30pm (approx 60-90 min)\n\nThe formal and participatory teachings for this course will occur on Sundays with a Saturday-Sunday flash retreat on the fourth weekend.  Class times are estimates and may change slightly. \nWe encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \n      Flash Retreat Weekend: February 1-2\nTo deepen and integrate your experience\, the final (fourth) weekend during the course will also be a Flash Retreat (Feb 1-2). This can be done at home\, or with us at Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, in Eastern British Columbia. We highly recommend clearing your schedule over the weekend to focus on the retreat. Formal group sessions will be held at these approximate times. \n\nFlash Retreat morning session: 9:30am MT\nFlash Retreat afternoon session: 2:30pm MT\nSessions will be 60-90 mins in length.\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\nEach of the weekly classes in this online course will be streamed live at 9:30-11am MST.  We ask participants to attend live whenever possible. The recording of each class will be available for one week after each class. We encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \nThe course culminates with a Flash Retreat on February 1-2\, 2025\, with formal group session times held at approx 9:30am and 2:30pm Mountain Time on Saturday and Sunday\, with a 60-90 minute duration. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nThis course is offered based on the unique combination of: \n1) dāna\, and2) a $80-120 USD administrative fee: \n\nRegister by December 15 2024: $80 USD\nRegister by December 29 2024: $100 USD\nRegister less than two weeks prior: $120 USD\n\nClick on the tabs below to learn more: \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. However\, 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. \nIf 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\, the costs of setting up good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online can be surprising. \nOur admin fee changes based on the date of registration. \nRegister four + weeks prior: $80 Register two to four weeks prior: $100Register less than two weeks prior: $120 \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Flash Retreat in community: students at Clear Sky Centre and online\, learning together.\n \n Register Now\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 kind of Dharma is much needed\, practical and insightful. It is something we need in our modern society where everyone is trying to get ahead of others. Learning with Qapel and Sensei helps me see clearly\, lead genuinely and be more willing to step into the unknown\, to serve others and to learn. \nBat FungSoftware Engineer. Toronto\, CanadaQapel and Sensei teach in a light but profound way – taking us on a brilliant journey of understanding with guile and humour.\nMale and female perspectives help balance with differing approaches. Explaining a complex but genius system that holds all life understanding from religion\, science\, psychotherapy and wisdom traditions is not easy. I think Ken Wilber would have enjoyed it.  \nJonathan Clifford Shiatsu\, Qigong & Meditation Teacher URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/integral-evolution-waking-up-and-growing-up-course/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/integral-buddhism-title.jpeg 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 PhoneThis 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:20250413 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250505 DTSTAMP:20251125T031120Z CREATED:20241215T181721Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251125T031120Z UID:10000665-1744502400-1746403199@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Joy! Fuel for Awakening 2025 DESCRIPTION:Joy! Fuel for Awakening\n Online Course | Four Weeks\n April 13-May 4\, 2025The spiritual path is the hardest—yet most worthwhile—path one can undertake. To walk the path and meet our challenges\, we need serious sustenance. Joy is a vital treasure that can feed us and put the air under our wings.In what can be seen as a dark time for our whole planet\, joy is vital to cultivate for ourselves and for each other\, in our aspiration to benefit all beings. This online course with teacher Catherine Pawasarat Sensei throws open the door to joy\, and revitalizes it as a resource for the journey of awakening. \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 Fueling our Awakening\n\nIf you want to live a life of joy\, live as if you are on a roller coaster. Ride the dragon of sheer awe and ongoing question\, rather than the merry-go-round of safety and fixed answers. \n—Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Sensei Pawasarat (“The Mystical Life: Right View” webinars) \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n What’s the seeming catch-phrase of our 21st century? “I’m so busy!” Between juggling a million balls\, and everything going on in our world today\, many of us struggle giving ourselves permission to take the time to nurture joy.  \nOn top of what seems like a faster and busier pace of life\, it’s a common experience to feel inundated with bad news and strife. It seems most people these days have some experience of chronic anxiety or depression; around the globe\, people are struggling.  \nUnfortunately\, what may commonly happen with this struggle is inaction—sitting on the couch\, watching videos\, and diving deeper into despair and fear. But sitting on the couch isn’t going to make anything better. The same old patterns won’t work. True self-care is much deeper.  \nThe good news is that joy is ever-present as an antidote to suffering. Joy is a matter of choice.  \nSo what is the joy that you can choose\, create\, nourish? How do you choose joy?  \nWith utmost delight\, we invite you to embark on this adventure together in a 4-week course on bliss\, and discover how to cultivate joy as that universal antidote to suffering. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dive Into the Joyful Mystery\nHere at Planet Dharma\, we have a lot of fun. Our lineage\, through Namgyal Rinpoche’s empowerment\, offers Buddhist insights on joy and bliss\, which go back centuries and millennia—and our lineage is all about expansion\, exploration\, and the cutting edge. These online classes weave the traditional and the modern together\, for a grounded\, reliable\, kickass take on nourishing your well-being and enlightenment.  \nLearning with a master meditation teacher about joy is priceless. So is communing in a community to learn about deepening and expanding our joy\, collaboratively. We don’t necessarily need to be with others for our joy\, but it can be more fun with others—and often\, others have thought of ways of having fun that we would never have thought of. You might even learn to stop being embarrassed about something that gives you joy\, and lean all the way into it. Engaging in the study and practice of joy together will create the space for something totally new in one’s own life.  \nIt’s an ode to joy!  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Milarepa Empowerment (Wongkur)\nDuring the flash retreat in the final weekend of the course\, a tantric initiation or empowerment (Wongkur) ceremony for the practice of Milarepa will be given by Catherine Sensei. This empowerment is offered by Catherine Sensei through the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. Dana is one of the most important practices in Buddhism. Click here to learn more. \nWhat 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 an extensive article\, published by Wesley Knapp. Visit and support his archival work at the Sakya Namgyal Archive. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nCourse Schedule\nApril 13 – May 4 2025\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\nClass Times (Mountain Time)\n\nSunday April 13 – 9:30-11am\nSunday April 20 – 9:30-11am\nSunday April 27 – 9:30-11am\nSaturday* & Sunday May 3-4 – 9:30am and 2:30pm (approx 60-90 min)\n\n*Saturday 9:30am Milarepa Wongkur offered by Catherine Sensei \nThe formal and participatory teachings for this course will occur on Sundays with a Saturday-Sunday flash retreat on the fourth weekend.  Class times are estimates and may change slightly. \nWe encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \nFlash Retreat Weekend: May 3-4\nTo deepen and integrate your experience\, the final (fourth) weekend during the course will also be a Flash Retreat (May 3-4) with a Milarepa Wongkur. This can be done at home\, or with us at Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, in Eastern British Columbia. We highly recommend clearing your schedule over the weekend to focus on the retreat. Formal group sessions will be held at these approximate times. \n\nFlash Retreat morning session: 9:30am MT\nFlash Retreat afternoon session: 2:30pm MT\nSessions will be 60-90 mins in length.\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\nEach of the weekly classes in this online course will be streamed live at 9:30-11am MST.  We ask participants to attend live whenever possible. The recording of each class will be available for one week after each class. We encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \nThe course culminates with a Flash Retreat on February 1-2\, 2025\, with formal group session times held at approx 9:30am and 2:30pm Mountain Time on Saturday and Sunday\, with a 60-90 minute duration. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nThis course is offered based on the unique combination of: \n1) dāna\, and2) a $80-120 USD administrative fee: \n\nRegister by March 16 2025: $80 USD\nRegister by March 31 2025: $100 USD\nRegister less than two weeks prior: $120 USD\n\nClick on the tabs below to learn more: \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. However\, 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. \nIf 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\, the costs of setting up good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online can be surprising. \nOur admin fee changes based on the date of registration. \nRegister four + weeks prior: $80 Register two to four weeks prior: $100Register less than two weeks prior: $120 \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Flash Retreat in community: students at Clear Sky Centre and online\, learning together.\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 Dearest Cata Sensei\,\nTHANK YOU – for holding and shining the outstanding love\, care\, compassion and wisdom that you do. We are so grateful to have you in our lives and for your presence in this world of ours.\nMuch love\, gratitude and appreciation to you for the incredible woman\, teacher and human being your are. Thank you for being a true light and inspiration in this world. \nRuth LevinMFA\, Small Business Owner\, Movement Teacher & Performing ArtistCatherine Sensei is an excellent teacher with a gentle manner and a keen intellect and breadth of knowledge. \nDean Nicholson Executive DirectorIt is simply hard to put the ineffable to words. I don’t find meditation easy\, but I do find it worth it. I would not have dreamed that a 3 day online retreat could resolve complicated matters that I have wrestled with for years. Yet it did. Thank you\, Sensei. Thank you each one of you at Clear Sky. \nCheryl Bate Clinical Counsellor\, Private Practise\, Whistler\, BCCatherine Sensei is an inspiring model and teacher of Women in Buddhism. She deftly weaves context\, questions and her own experiences with wisdom\, curiosity and a stunning clarity. \nMichelle Heinz Integral CoachDear Catherine Sensei\, we are so blessed to have you as one of the dedicated teachers at Clear Sky. I admire your continued commitment to helping us and others on the planet and I am awed by your abilities.  \nDan O'BrianAuthor\, Japan SeriesDear Catherine Sensei\,\nThank you for your unwavering compassion and commitment to support and accelerate The unfoldment of all beings around you.\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 socialpreneur URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/joy-fuel-for-awakening/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Featured-Image.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 NameThis 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:20251109 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251201 DTSTAMP:20251125T023850Z CREATED:20250223T235150Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251125T023850Z UID:10000667-1762646400-1764547199@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:21st - Century Tantra DESCRIPTION:21st - Century tantra\n Online Course | Four Weeks\n November 9-30 2025Are your divine feminine and divine masculine on good speaking terms? This four-week course is for people who want to understand the role of Tantra in Vajrayana\, the role of sexuality in spiritual practice\, and the spiritual aspects of sexuality in daily life. We invite you to dive in with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, a lineage teacher who has been practicing Tantra nearly three decades\, for this one-of-a-kind exploration of Tantra in 2025. \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  21st – Century Tantra\n\nTantra means weaving\, and it’s about the weaving of energies in our life. The human organism and all of the cosmos is operating on these waves\, flows\, particles of energy— it’s learning to be able to sense that\, perceive that\, visualize that\, and work with that consciously. \n– Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n   \nOur modern moment calls for integration and balance in ourselves\, our relationships\, our communities\, and our planet. For the benefit of all beings\, our 21st-century labor is a labor of love\, a labor for the reintegrated health of this entire Earth and cosmos. That’s what 21st-century Tantra is all about. \nTantra is many things. Similar to Daoism\, it’s an interweaving of our inner feminine and inner masculine natures. This work can be done alone\, with a tantric partner\, or with tantric partners\, and that choice is yours. The key is to actively explore the energies without being distracted by attachment\, aversion\, or confusion. In this four-week course\, we’ll explore the roots of Tantra in what is now modern day Pakistan\, Tantra’s adoption and evolution in Tibetan Buddhism\, some of the challenges of translating Tantra to our contemporary cultures\, and how we can approach the practice today.  \nOur cultural conditioning can make understanding and integrating Tantra practice challenging. This course is also for those who would like to understand and their Vajrayana practice with the conditioning around sexuality and relationship they received from the tradition they were raised in. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Learn\nSpiritual awakening is a series of questions\, and in this course\, we’ll explore a myriad of tantric questions together.  \nTwenty-first century living and practice: How does Tantra relate to my daily life in the contemporary world? What does Tantra mean for contemporary Vajrayana practitioners? How do we incorporate Tantra into our practice\, and what different kinds of ways are there to do so?  \nSexuality and Tantra: Do we get to have sex? Do we have to have sex? How does Tantra integrate with healthy sexuality? What does “healthy sexuality” mean?  \nMasculinity and Femininity: Are your divine feminine and divine masculine speaking to one another? What if you’re non-binary? \nAnd\, what does it take to be qualified to do this practice?  \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 would like to get greater clarity about the nature of Tantra in historical and contemporary practice.\nYou would like to get clarity about the role of sexuality in spiritual practice.\nYou would like to integrate your sexuality more. \nYou would like to cultivate healthier relationships.\nYou would like to better understand the causes of sex scandals in Buddhism\, and how we can empower ourselves and our Sanghas to better equip ourselves.\nYou would like to explore integration of the shadow around the first three chakras. – Checkout Money Sex Power free chapter/webpage\nYou’d like to grow stronger contact with the divine feminine and divine masculine. \nYou’d like to feel more comfortable with your non-binary sexuality in Buddhism’s heteronormative tradition.\n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Sensei and this sangha have been practicing Tantra for nearly three decades all over the globe\, from Japan\, to Brazil\, to our Clear Sky home base of British Columbia. We’ve seen the awesome power of it in our own lives\, and we are thrilled to continue sharing the power of Tantra as we move into a pivotal part of our human history. Let’s imagine a healthy world together\, drawing from the power of Tantra—and be the change we wish to see. \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What’s expected of me as a student\nThe idea is to come to class live. A recording will be available for one week for those who are unable to join a class—we understand that sometimes it happens that one cannot attend class live. However\, these sacred teachings are meant to be experienced live with the teacher\, and in addition to its many benefits\, this offers you and your fellow students  the precious opportunity to ask and witness questions live and in the moment. \nIn addition to the classes\, you’ll be attending a weekly meeting with your sangha/study group. \nThere is also a flash retreat on the final weekend of the course\, which will have two classes a day\, and a meeting with your sangha or group on both the Saturday and Sunday. \n \n \n \n \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 Schedule\nNovember 9-30 2025\n  \n  \n\n\n\n\nClass Times (Mountain Time)\n\nSunday November 9 – 9:30-11am\nSunday November 16 – 9:30-11am\nSunday November 23 – 9:30-11am\nSaturday & Sunday November 29-30 – 9:30am and 2:30pm (approx 60-90 min)\n\nThe formal and participatory teachings for this course will occur on Sundays with a Saturday-Sunday flash retreat on the fourth weekend.  Class times are estimates and may change slightly. \nWe encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \n      Flash Retreat Weekend: November 29-30\nTo deepen and integrate your experience\, the final (fourth) weekend during the course will also be a Flash Retreat. This can be done at home\, or with us at Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, in Eastern British Columbia. We highly recommend clearing your schedule over the weekend to focus on the retreat. Formal group sessions will be held at these approximate times. \n\nFlash Retreat morning session: 9:30am MT\nFlash Retreat afternoon session: 2:30pm MT\nSessions will be 60-90 mins in length.\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\nEach of the weekly classes in this online course will be streamed live at 9:30-11am MST.  We ask participants to attend live whenever possible. The recording of each class will be available for one week after each class. We encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \nThe course culminates with a Flash Retreat on the final weekend with formal group session times held at approx 9:30am and 2:30pm Mountain Time on Saturday and Sunday\, with a 60-90 minute duration. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nThis course is offered based on the unique combination of: \n1) dāna\, and2) a $80-120 USD administrative fee: \n\nRegister by October 12 2025: $80 USD\nRegister by October 26 2025: $100 USD\nRegister less than two weeks prior: $120 USD\n\nPlease note that everyone attending the flash retreat will be invited to offer dana when they sign up for that weekend.  \nClick on the tabs below to learn more: \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. However\, 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. \nIf 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\, the costs of setting up good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online can be surprising. \nOur admin fee changes based on the date of registration. \nRegister four + weeks prior: $80 Register two to four weeks prior: $100Register less than two weeks prior: $120 \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Flash Retreat in community: students at Clear Sky Centre and online\, learning together.\n \n Register Now\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 kind of Dharma is much needed\, practical and insightful. It is something we need in our modern society where everyone is trying to get ahead of others. Learning with Qapel and Sensei helps me see clearly\, lead genuinely and be more willing to step into the unknown\, to serve others and to learn. \nBat FungSoftware Engineer. Toronto\, CanadaQapel and Sensei teach in a light but profound way – taking us on a brilliant journey of understanding with guile and humour.\nMale and female perspectives help balance with differing approaches. Explaining a complex but genius system that holds all life understanding from religion\, science\, psychotherapy and wisdom traditions is not easy. I think Ken Wilber would have enjoyed it.  \nJonathan Clifford Shiatsu\, Qigong & Meditation Teacher URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/21st-century-tantra-and-sexuality/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/IndianSexTempleScene-1024x648.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:20260101T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260101T153000 DTSTAMP:20251214T060416Z CREATED:20251207T202550Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251214T060416Z UID:10000679-1767277800-1767281400@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:New Year Special 2026 DESCRIPTION:New Year Reflection & Intention\n \n Join Catherine Pawasarat Sensei for a special New Year gathering as we reflect on a year of profound transformation and set our intentions for the journey ahead. \nIn her first New Year talk since the passing of Qapel\, Catherine Sensei will share what is most alive and present for her as we cross this threshold together. \n 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 Looking Ahead with Intention\nAs 2025 draws to a close\, what are we carrying forward? What are we ready to release? Catherine Sensei will offer reflections on the year behind us and contemplations for the year ahead—invitations to meet 2026 with clarity\, courage\, and open hearts. \nThis intimate gathering is an opportunity to pause at the year’s turning point\, to sit with what has been\, and to orient ourselves toward what calls us forward. Whether you come with specific intentions or simply with presence\, you’ll find space here to mark this threshold in community. \n \n \n \n \n \n Dharma Talks for 21st Century Life\nThe word ‘Dharma’ has many meanings\, one being the ultimate universal laws of the universe. How do these ancient perspectives illuminate our contemporary lives\, especially in times of change and uncertainty? \nThis year’s New Year talk holds special significance as Catherine Sensei continues to take the banner of the teaching lineage she received from Qapel into the future. Her perspective—shaped by decades of practice and unwavering commitment to awakening—offers us all a chance to meet life’s transitions with wisdom and grace. \nTalks like these bring uncompromising\, applicable teachings you can apply to your life. They’re thought-provoking\, inspiring\, and designed to shake up and wake up your world. In a culture that tends to ‘dumb down’ the complexities of wisdom\, we promise not to. \nWhat to Expect\nThis talk will include Catherine Sensei’s reflections on the year and the year ahead\, time for contemplation\, small group sharing\, and Q&A. Come with whatever questions or intentions are alive for you as we step into the new year. \nThis talk is open to all experience levels—longtime practitioners and newcomers alike. Video recordings are available for those who cannot attend live. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 \nFees and Dāna\nThese sessions are offered based on the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. \nWe recommend you attend live\, but if you cannot\, the video recording will be available for one week after the live session.  The live session includes time for a short sharing/ community discussion and Q&A. \n \n 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 My teenage son actually read it. First spiritual book he’s ever touched. That alone is a miracle. \nDavid L.Parent & Dharma PractitionerFinally\, a spiritual teaching that doesn’t require me to pretend I’m not fascinated by aliens and cosmic consciousness. \nRachel T.Sci-Fi AuthorThe Victory Protocols aren’t just in the book—they start working on you as you read. I found myself spontaneously applying them to my life before I even finished. \nJames K.Former Buddhist MonkI thought I was reading a fun adventure story. Turns out I was getting the spiritual education I’d been seeking for decades. Sneaky brilliant. \nSarah M.Meditation TeacherCatherine Sensei’s intuitive wisdom on how you can use your astrology chart to grow the wholesome and let go of the unwholesome is skillful\, compassionate and loving. She is the real deal. She has worked and trained closely as an apprentice to Qapel Doug Duncan. As a result\, she has learned to help beings to let go of what is not working and embrace more sustainable behaviours using the combination of astrology and dharma. \nKaren McallisterThe Mindful Money Coach URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/new-year-2026-special/ CATEGORIES:Digital Dojo,Office Hours,Public Talk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260118 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260209 DTSTAMP:20260923T060452Z CREATED:20250806T135738Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T060452Z UID:10000669-1768694400-1770595199@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Integral Evolution: The Next Frontier DESCRIPTION:Integral Evolution: The Next Frontier\n Online Course | Four Weeks\n January 18- February 8\, 2026 \nMoving forward with our beloved teacher Qapel’s exhortation to embrace Integral as part of our spiritual practice. Awakening\, he said\, is like everything else: evolutionary. The Buddha said that his teachings would last 2\,500 years—which brings us to now. It’s time for a new turning of the wheel. Integral Evolution is the next stage of humanity’s awakening and development. It’s thrilling we’re alive at the new frontier of consciousness. Drawing on more of the last teaching notes our guru Qapel made\, come and explore with Catherine Sensei how we can marry authentic Dharma and the Integral paradigm. How do we evolve and awaken in alignment with the fullness of our current time and lay the groundwork for a revolutionary and generative future? \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 Waking Up and Growing Up\n\nThe stage of growing up that you are at is incredibly important because it will determine your waking up experience. \n— Ken Wilber\, Finding Radical Wholeness \n\n \n \n \n \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 we go deeper into the 21st-century we are seeing a new turning of the Wheel of Dharma – a radical evolution of Buddhism and spiritual teachings. The last major evolution in Buddhist Dharma was more than 1\,000 years ago with Vajrayana\, the third turn of the wheel. Now with psychology\, Integral spirituality\, and science\, something new is emerging. \nIn addition to awakening\, “waking up\,” we also need to work on growing up\, both individually and collectively. How do we integrate our awakening state in our modern world? What do we need to do with our shadow? Which stages of human development do we need to be aware of\, and work through? The days of meditating in a cave for decades are over. We have to grow up and integrate into the fold of an evolving global ecosystem that needs our commitment\, together. \n \n \n \n \n \n Join us for this trailblazing four-week course. Together we will explore the emerging elements of a fit and dynamic vehicle for 21st-century awakening\, and beyond—a spiritual vehicle which must evolve as rapidly as evolution itself. We must learn how to keep up! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Integral Spirituality\nIntegral Spirituality was coined by Ken Wilber\, an internationally acknowledged leader and the preeminent scholar of the Integral stages of human development. In his many books\, he writes that traditional Buddhist teachings themselves suggest an ongoing evolution leading toward a more unified\, holistic\, and interconnected spirituality. He describes the ways in which the tradition has been open to the continuous unfolding and expansion of its own teachings\, and he suggests possible paths toward an ever more Integral approach. \nWe agree! \nIn this course\, we are excited to be taking this work forward and translating it practically\, based on our lineage’s working experience of modern spiritual community. \nIntegral Spirituality by Wilber is a prerequisite read for the course. Please start by reading the Appendix as we have found it is clearer this way. \n \n \n \n \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 Grow up?\n  \nAs spiritual seekers we might feel that waking up is enough – that experiencing absolute truth will solve all our problems and we will be bright shiny beings without problems or interpersonal issues. The thing is\, we also live in the relative world. Spending time on cleaning up and growing up increases our range and freedom – it is how we can genuinely cultivate the art of living. How do we live in more integrated\, generative way? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Application\n  \nThis course will be about the application of Integral so we can actually work with it and evolve with it. We know that the ‘map’ or theory is not the territory or real work\, so we’ll use this course to keep it real and explore the terrain. Think of it as a virtual Dharma trip as we travel some shared lands and keep the teaching real. \nThis also means shining light onto shadow aspects of our consciousnessess – what aren’t we seeing? How can we help each other really meet our current stage of development and do the work required in that stage? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Working with the shadow\n  \n\nIt’s important that we are clear and honest: by its very nature\, shadow work is not fun or pretty. It takes courage and fortitude to see parts of our being that are not like we wish them to be\, and to dedicate one’s energy to transforming that. \n\nQapel & Sensei on Integrating the Shadow \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\nCourse Schedule\n \nJanuary 18 – Feb 8\, 2026\n\n\n \nClass Times (Mountain Time)\n\nSunday January 18 – 9:30-11am\nSunday January 25 – 9:30-11am\nSunday February 1 – 9:30-11am\nSaturday & Sunday February 7-8 – 9:30am and 2:30pm (approx 60-90 min)\n\nThe formal and participatory teachings for this course will occur on Sundays with a Saturday-Sunday flash retreat on the fourth weekend.  Class times are estimates and may change slightly. \nWe encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \n      Flash Retreat Weekend: February 7-8\nTo deepen and integrate your experience\, the final (fourth) weekend during the course will also be a Flash Retreat. This can be done at home\, or with us at Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, in Eastern British Columbia. We highly recommend clearing your schedule over the weekend to focus on the retreat. Formal group sessions will be held at these approximate times. \n\nFlash Retreat morning session: 9:30am MT\nFlash Retreat afternoon session: 2:30pm MT\nSessions will be 60-90 mins in length.\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Save the Dates in your Digital Calendar Now\nDownload the course schedules (.ics) to your iCal or Google calendars. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Classes (.ics)\n \n Flash Retreat (.ics)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\, consort\, and co-founder of Planet Dharma and 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\nEach of the weekly classes in this online course will be streamed live at 9:30-11am MST.  We ask participants to attend live whenever possible. The recording of each class will be available for one week after each class. We encourage you to connect with sangha outside of class times to discuss and deepen your learning of the material. \nThe course culminates with a Flash Retreat on February 7-8\, 2026\, with formal group session times held at approx 9:30am and 2:30pm Mountain Time on Saturday and Sunday\, with a 60-90 minute duration. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nThis course is offered based on the unique combination of: \n1) dāna\, and2) a $80-120 USD administrative fee: \n\nRegister by December 27 2025: $80 USD\nRegister by January 4 2026: $100 USD\nRegister less than two weeks prior: $120 USD\n\nClick on the tabs below to learn more: \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. However\, 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. \nIf 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\, the costs of setting up good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online can be surprising. \nOur admin fee changes based on the date of registration. \nRegister four + weeks prior: $80 Register two to four weeks prior: $100Register less than two weeks prior: $120 \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Flash Retreat in community: students at Clear Sky Centre and online\, learning together. \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 This kind of Dharma is much needed\, practical and insightful. It is something we need in our modern society where everyone is trying to get ahead of others. Learning with Qapel and Sensei helps me see clearly\, lead genuinely and be more willing to step into the unknown\, to serve others and to learn. \nBat FungSoftware Engineer. Toronto\, CanadaQapel and Sensei teach in a light but profound way – taking us on a brilliant journey of understanding with guile and humour.\nMale and female perspectives help balance with differing approaches. Explaining a complex but genius system that holds all life understanding from religion\, science\, psychotherapy and wisdom traditions is not easy. I think Ken Wilber would have enjoyed it.  \nJonathan Clifford Shiatsu\, Qigong & Meditation Teacher URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/integral-evolution-the-next-frontier/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/integral-plain.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260321T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260321T110000 DTSTAMP:20260309T033534Z CREATED:20260114T025938Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T033534Z UID:10000686-1774085400-1774090800@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Psynauts Vol 1: Virtual Launch Event 2026 DESCRIPTION:First Contact: The Victory Protocols Revealed\n \n  \n 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 ARE YOU READY TO REMEMBER WHO YOU REALLY ARE?\nOn March 21st\, 2026 at the Spring Equinox\, a transmission begins. Join us as the Victory Protocols—ancient wisdom from beyond this world—are unveiled to seekers ready to receive them. \n \n \n \n \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 DISCOVERY\n \nYou’ve Found the Cave\nLost in a Himalayan blizzard\, Kasya stumbles upon a cave—and inside\, a journal that would change everything. A chronicle written by Avalokana Chen\, an interdimensional traveler known on Earth as “Elbud.” \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n You are Kasya now. \nThis book has found you. And like all true discoveries\, the timing is no accident. \nAccording to the Victory Protocols themselves: \n“Only some beings access the methodology to become a Psynaut\, although almost all have the capacity.” \nIf you’re reading these words\, you may be among those ready to access what has always been within 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 THE TRANSMISSION\n  \nWhat Happens on First Contact?\nOn March 21st—the moment of perfect balance between light and dark—we gather virtually to initiate the next wave of Psynauts into the teachings that have guided awakening beings for millennia. \n \n \n \n \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 EXPERIENCE\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 PROTOCOLS REVEALED For the first time publicly\, the Victory Protocols that form the backbone of Psynaut training will be demonstrated in action. Not just explained—activated. \nVOICES FROM THE SOURCE Hear directly from those who worked alongside Elbud (Qapel Doug Duncan) during his Earth incarnation. They’ll share what it was like witnessing a master teacher channel cosmic wisdom into story form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n THE COSMIC TRANSMISSION Through dramatic readings\, visual media\, and guided group experience\, you’ll be initiated into the Psynaut way of seeing—where ordinary reality becomes transparent to deeper truths. \nYOUR NEXT STEPS According to the journal\, Volume 1 must be discovered. Volume 2 must be received from a mentor. Learn how to connect with the teaching lineage and continue your journey. \n \n \n \n \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 GUESTS\nMeet Your Earth-Based Contacts\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n CATHERINE PAWASARAT SENSEI\nLineage Holder & Co-Founder\, Clear Sky Retreat Center \nNot all Psynauts have departed this dimension. Some remain to guide the awakening. \nCatherine Sensei walked alongside Qapel for 2+ decades\, co-founding Clear Sky Retreat in the BC Rockies and helping thousands of students remember their cosmic nature. She carries the transmission forward—and on March 21st\, she’ll help you understand why this teaching chose fiction as its vessel. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n THE EDITORS\nThose Who Helped Shape the Transmission \nHear from those who worked directly with Elbud during his writing process. They’ll share what it was like editing the book and how the Victory Protocols worked their way into the editors’ own consciousness. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duncan Cryle\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jessica Andersen\n \n \n LinkedIn\n \n \n \n \n \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 PROTOCOLS\n \nA Glimpse into the 66 Transmissions\nThe Victory Protocols aren’t just teachings—they’re activations. Here are three that will be explored during First Contact: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Victory Protocol 1: The greatest value is compassion\nThe foundation that transforms everything—from playground conflicts to cosmic awakening. \nVictory Protocol 23: We never feel ready for the challenge that comes next\, but if it’s arising\, we probably are\nWhy you’re here\, reading this\, right now. \nVictory Protocol 66: The question is not “to be or not to be”; the question is “what to be?”\nThe choice every Psynaut must make. \nOn March 21st\, you’ll experience how these protocols work not as abstract philosophy but as living technology for consciousness transformation. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 INVITATION\n \nWhy the Spring Equinox?\nThe Spring Equinox marks perfect balance—day and night equal\, light and dark in harmony. It’s the moment when new growth becomes inevitable\, when what has been dormant underground breaks through into manifestation. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PSYNAUTS emerges at this exact moment of balance. \nLike Kasya finding that journal in the cave\, you’re being given an opportunity: \n→ To see beyond the ordinary story you’ve been told about consciousness → To remember the cosmic nature you’ve forgotten → To join a lineage of awakening beings spanning worlds and lifetimes → To discover what it means to be a space-traveling being—a Psynaut \n \nThe Bigger Picture:\nThis isn’t just a book launch. It’s the activation of a teaching that Elbud spent 30 years preparing to deliver—wisdom refined through thousands of meditation hours\, countless retreats\, and direct transmission from enlightened masters. \nQapel chose story because\, as he says in the book\, “Sometimes the ego’s defenses are so strong\, wisdom needs to sneak in through the back door.” \nOn March 21st\, that door opens. \n \n \n \n \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 I can't attend live—can I still register?\n Yes! Everyone who registers receives the recording\, which will be available for 7 days. The transmission works across time and space—that’s kind of the point. However\, the live experience includes real-time group consciousness activation that recordings can’t fully capture.\n \n \n \n \n \n Is this really free?\n Completely free. Elbud’s teaching was always about accessibility. No one is turned away from the dharma for lack of funds. (Though if you’re moved to support the teaching\, the book will be available for purchase.)\n \n \n \n \n \n Do I need to know anything about Buddhism or science fiction?\n Nope. You need only curiosity and openness. The Victory Protocols meet you where you are.\n \n \n \n \n \n What if I'm skeptical about aliens and interdimensional beings?\n Perfect. Skepticism is healthy. As Victory Protocol 28 states: “If you don’t rebel\, you probably won’t meet the Victory Protocols.” Come with your questions. The teaching works whether you believe in it or not.\n \n \n \n \n \n Will this be recorded and shared publicly?\n The recording will be available to registrants only for 7 days. We’re creating sacred container for this transmission.\n \n \n \n \n \n How do I get Volume 2?\n According to the protocols\, Volume 2 must be received from a mentor. We’ll explain the process during the event and help you connect with the teaching lineage.\n \n \n \n \n \n Is this a cult?\n No. This is a book launch for a work of fiction that happens to contain profound spiritual teachings. You’re not joining anything except a community of fellow seekers. \n \n \n \n \n \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 MOMENT OF CHOICE\n \nThe Cave Awaits\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Like Kasya in that Himalayan cave\, you’ve reached a decision point. \nYou can close this page\, return to ordinary reality\, and forget you were here. \nOr you can register\, show up on March 21st\, and discover what it means to become a Psynaut—a consciousness traveler\, a space-time navigator\, an awakened being. \nThe journal is in your hands now. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n REGISTER FOR FIRST CONTACT\nMarch 21\, 2026 | 9:30 AM Mountain Time\nThe Victory Protocols are calling.Will you answer? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I'M READY - REGISTER NOW\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  \nPsynauts Volume 1: The Source by Qapel Doug Duncan\nAvailable March 21st wherever books are sold URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/psynauts-vol-1-virtual-launch-event-2026/ CATEGORIES:Digital Dojo,Office Hours,Public Talk 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 END:VCALENDAR