BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Planet Dharma - ECPv6.18.0//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH 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:20190310T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20191103T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20200308T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20201101T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20210314T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20211107T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20220313T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20221106T080000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Europe/Berlin BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20200329T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20201025T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20210328T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20211031T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20220327T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20221030T010000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20211128T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20211128T160000 DTSTAMP:20260515T113207Z CREATED:20210606T140104Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260515T113207Z UID:10000448-1638111600-1638115200@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Zen\, Now - Contemporary Zen Practice (Enlighten-Up!) DESCRIPTION:Enlighten-Up!\n \n Topic: Zen\, Now: Contemporary Zen Practice \nUncompromising\, unflinching and kick-ass dharma classes.  Vajrayana Teachers Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat present a new topic each month.  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: \nZen\, Now: Contemporary Zen Practice\nMost likely\, you’re not currently living in Japan in a Zen monastery\, or in China practicing under the tutelage of a Chan master.  So\, what does it mean to practice Zen today?  How do you know if you’re really practicing Zen? \nDharma Teachers Qapel and Sensei spent many years practicing Dharma in Japan. Hear from them about the fundamental characteristics of a Zen practice today.  This course is a preview to the two week winter Zen meditation retreat. \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 monthly(ish) 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. \nThe topic of the classes will change each month.  They 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 ask questions at the end of the class. \nVideo recordings are available 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 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. \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\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. \nThere is also a monthly Digital Dojo session (previously Office Hours) to bring your questions to Doug and Catherine Sensei.   \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 \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/enlighten-up-2021-11-28-zen-now-contemporary-practice/ CATEGORIES:Public Classes,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:20211025 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20211122 DTSTAMP:20260615T114047Z CREATED:20201120T005052Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260615T114047Z UID:10000438-1635120000-1637539199@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Zen Online Course DESCRIPTION:Zen\n A Four Week Online Course| Starts October 25\, 2021\n Zen-style spiritual realization enters the land of paradoxes. Have you noticed that the ego doesn’t like paradoxes?  Join us for the third online course of 2021\, on Zen. \n  \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 Zen – An Online Course\nSpiritual awakening consists of the embodied realization that the ego—our sense of a personal self—is overlaid on top of our direct experience of things as they are. And as such distorts our perception of reality. In fact\, with awakening we realize that the ego isn’t necessary for happiness and can often obstruct it.  \nIt sounds so simple. And teachings about it fill thousands of volumes of texts. \nBut the Buddha himself tried to share with his students this very simple\, direct path that goes from ego struggle to its release\, awakening. \nHow did the Buddha describe it? He merely held up a lotus flower\, in silence. \nWhile most of the attending students waited patiently for the Buddha to begin teaching\, the arahat Mahākāśyapa smiled. He was the only one who understood that the flower was the teaching. As a result of his direct perception\, he’s considered the first patriarch of Zen. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 [Online] course went beyond my expectations\, I feel I learned a lot of new things or new ways of seeing things. The teachers have an incredible way of presenting the themes in a way that makes it easy to understand. They also make the teachings fun and suggest exercises so that you can apply them in your life. \n Irene Arriaza\, Guatemala / Spain\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I was expecting to get pearls of wisdom and I always get far far more. The  teachings always speak directly to me. It is uncanny. It is like hearing a language that I spoke in some other life-form and suddenly it rings a bell. And bell after bell. Like a universal language that we all used to speak but have forgotten\, and now as if a new pathway in the brain has opened up and the signals coming in are making sense! Directly from the cosmos via Doug and Catherine Sensei. \n Renata Drtinova\, Spain / Czechia\n Psychotherapist (Gestalt therapist) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The teachers of Planet Dharma [Online course] aim to provide opportunities to learn from age old teachings while including modern information as they are examples of continuing to learn about the fascinating\, yet troubled world we live in. They help one to develop ideas how to help out society\, live in society and contribute to themselves and others. \n Daniel O'Brien\, USA\n Author\, Japan Series \n \n \n \n \n \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\nStarts October 25\, 2021\nPLEASE NOTE to deepen and integrate your experience\, we are offering three optional weekly Master Classes during the course and an at-home Flash Retreat at the end. See below for more details. \n*We also highly recommend you consider participating in the full Zen Meditation Retreat in December 2021 at Clear Sky Center. \n \n \n \n \n \n Zen Course Class Dates\, 7:30pm MST:\n\nMonday October 25th\nMonday November 1st\nMonday November 8th\nMonday November 15th\n\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 Zen\, Experiencing Zen\nThe Buddha used a simple flower as a teaching of the profound nature of things as they are: so uncomplicated\, so immediate\, and so very difficult to explain. \nSo\, you might ask\, why bother explaining? Why study this? When instead we could just realize it ourselves\, like Mahākāśyapa? \nWe explain because our conventional minds are clouded by ego clinging. This often manifests as conflicting emotions and prejudicial views\, both considered forms of ignorance or confusion about reality. \nFor centuries Zen masters having been holding up flowers and students have been caught in this confusion\, asking questions like\, “What’s that flower got to do with me? Or awakening?” \nThus\, the famous saying about awakening: “With words it cannot be described\, without words it cannot be expressed.” \nYou’ve probably noted that holding up a flower doesn’t use words. \nWe can see how Zen-style spiritual realization enters the land of paradoxes. Rinzai Zen has made these famous with their ko-an mind-bending teachings. Have you noticed that the ego doesn’t like paradoxes? \nAnd spiritual awakening is the ultimate paradox\, described this way:\n“You can see it\,\nBut it is not there!” \nWe invite you to join us for these four online classes on Zen: Monday nights at 19:30 MT\, Oct 25\, Nov 1\, 8\, 15\, followed by a weekend-long flash retreat on Sat and Sun\, Nov 20 and 21. \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 Study and Meditation Electives\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Master Classes\n \n \n \n \n \n Three Sundays\n \n \n \n \n \n There are weekly Master Classes (akin to online Q&A Office Hours) during this online course to support your deepening learning and practice\, on the following dates at 3pm MST: \n\nSun. October 31\nSun. November 7\nSun. November 14\n\nYou can elect to attend all three or individual dates. \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration & Dana links for Master Classes will be accessible to you when you register for the course. \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\n \n \n \n \n \n November 20-21\, 2021\n \n \n \n \n \n Elect to deepen your practice via a Flash Retreat during the last weekend of this course.  The retreat provides practitioners a valuable opportunity to integrate and seal the learnings from the online course\, in a format well suited for our contemporary lives. \nThe retreat will include instructions\, online check ins\, and a Master Class on Sunday\, November 21st. \nWe encourage you to attend this weekend retreat at Clear Sky Centre\, or together with your local sangha\, or if those not available to you\, in your home. \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration and Dana links for the Flash Retreat will be accessible to you when you register for the course. \nSangha power – consider organizing or joining regional in-person or online sangha groups to support one another during the online courses and Flash Retreats.  \n  \n \n \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 \n \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 \nDoug 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 7:30pm MST. The recording will be available for one week after each class. \nStudy and Meditation Opportunities in addition to the classes include Master Classes on three Sundays at 3pm MST\, and a Flash Retreat on November 20-21\, 2021. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nThis course is offered based on the unique combination of 1) dāna  and 2) a $100 USD administrative fee. Click 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n It has been sheer joy to be a participant in the Foundations of Buddhist Philosophy streamed classes. They made the practice come alive for me and accessible and pertinent to my every-day life. And of course\, I always enjoy Doug and Catherine’s unfailing good humour which put a lighter touch on what can sometimes be a very dry subject. \n Ronda Clanfield\, Canada\n Resources Specialist\, CBC National TV News (retired) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Fabulous mindfulness teachers\, presenting a variety of accessible tools for unfolding\, in a mutual\, community inspired way. It’s great that classes can be watched in person\, virtually\, or within a week depending on one’s schedule. Increase the awareness\, compassion\, wisdom\, strength\, and joy in your life! \n Brendan Ries USA / Australia\n Life Coach\, Teacher and Artist \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n[The online classes] are a fantastic tool for me to not get completely lost in Samsara throughout the year\, especially because I don’t live in Canada and cannot be with the teachers so often. I still felt very connected and supported by the Lamas and Sangha. As a result I became much more aware of my state of mind than I would ordinarily.  \n Andrea Netscher\, Germany\n Physiotherapist \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 dates to your iCal or Google calendars. If download doesn’t commence\, right click on the button and select ‘save link as’. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n + iCal Export (Online Course)\n \n + iCal Export (Master Classes)\n \n + iCal Export (Flash Retreat)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n + Google Calendar (Online Course)\n \n + Google Calendar (Master Classes)\n \n + Google Calendar (Flash Retreat) URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/zen-online-course/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/2021-events-banners.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20211010T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20211010T160000 DTSTAMP:20260622T054225Z CREATED:20210606T135628Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T054225Z UID:10000447-1633878000-1633881600@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Zen\, Then - Helpful Historical Zen Stories (Enlighten-Up!) DESCRIPTION:Enlighten-Up!\n \n Topic:  Zen\, Then : Helpful historical Zen stories\n  \nnext on Nov 28: Zen\, Now: Contemporary Zen Practice \n  \n  \nUncompromising\, unflinching and kick-ass dharma classes.  Vajrayana Teachers Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat present a new topic each month.  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: \nZen\, Then: Helpful historical Zen stories\nWhat was Zen\, back then?  What can we learn about the past to enlighten our practice now?  Hear from Qapel and Sensei on Zen stories from the past at this Enlighten-Up\, a preview of the Four Week online Zen course and two week winter Zen meditation retreat. \nAnd on November 28th the next Enlighten up will be on:  Zen\, Now: Contemporary Zen Practice \n\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 monthly(ish) 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. \nThe topic of the classes will change each month.  They 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 ask questions at the end of the class. \nVideo recordings are available 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 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. \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\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. \nThere is also a monthly Digital Dojo session (previously Office Hours) to bring your questions to Doug and Catherine Sensei.   \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 \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/enlighten-up-2021-10-10-zen-then-historical-stories/ CATEGORIES:Public Classes,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:20210925 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20211003 DTSTAMP:20260611T045140Z CREATED:20201228T230303Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T045140Z UID:10000601-1632528000-1633219199@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Seven Rays of Healing with Medicine Buddha (Online + CS & Germany Residential) DESCRIPTION:Seven Rays of Healing with Medicine Buddha\n Meditation Retreat| Sept 25 - Oct 2 2021| Online\, Germany & Canada\n \nThis retreat is an opportunity\, for any meditator\, of any level\, to go deeper to the essence of healing.  Through the Seven Rays of Healing (from the Western Mysteries traditions) and sense based meditations\, discover how to experience deeper foundations of vitality and health.  \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 Seven Rays of Healing Retreat\nHow can we heal? How can we feel healthy and whole? \nEvery wisdom tradition around the world holds that true healing comes through an understanding of the nature of reality. Part of this entails learning to discern between—and dance together with—both absolute reality and relative reality. \nThe true challenge of a human life is to be able to live\, work\, love\, and dance in both relative and absolute reality at the same time. One or the other takes the foreground or background as appropriate. The system of the Seven Rays of Healing helps us understand the true nature of relative reality\, while bridging to absolute reality. Then we are ready to experience absolute reality\, primarily through the methodology of meditation. \nWhat are the Seven Rays of Healing?\nThe Seven Rays of Healing use the chakra system of ancient India combined with aspects of Theosophical philosophy. This system helps us understand the different ways we manifest in the world. Moreover\, it helps us learn how to reorient our approach and engagement with the parts of our lives represented by the seven rays\, to embody greater love\, compassion and understanding. In other words\, it helps us learn to realize our spiritual essence. \nUsing meditation\, creative\, and somatic exercises\, we’ll bring relative and absolute realities together within one’s own being\, to manifest the heart and mind of spiritual realization. \nMedicine Buddha Empowerment\nOn the last day of the retreat\, there will also be a special Medicine Buddha empowerment given. According to Mahayana teachings\, the Medicine Buddha cures all diseases\, including those of ignorance. Its function is to free living beings from the three mental poisons\, hatred\, greed and confusion.  \nTo make an offering and download the prayer booklet for the empowerment click here or use the button below. \nThis is your opportunity to meet and study with Dharma Teachers and Spiritual Mentors\, Qapel and Sensei.  \nThis retreat will be held in the heart of Germany\, in Schannenbach\, 60km from Frankfurt and Heidelburg\, \nAs well at our magnificent Clear Sky Retreat Centre\, Canada and Online. \n \n \n Register Here\n \n Get Prayer Booklet\n \n \n \n \n \n To register for the in person retreat in Germany please email Andrea Netscher at andreaomtare@me.com. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What to Bring\nTo facilitate your meditations on the senses\, there are some items we ask you to bring to the retreat.  Please register as soon as possible so you have time to prepare those items. The list will be sent to registrants soon after registering. \n \n \n \n \n \n The retreat in Germany will be held at a lovely place called “Haus Sonnentau” which means “House Sundew”. Check out the place for yourself. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \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 During retreats with Doug and Catherine I was led to confront hidden parts of myself\, unaware that they were affecting me so deeply. Shadow work helped me acknowledge new strengths and wisdom that were within me all along. After retreat I left feeling freer and more confident about my spiritual practice. \n Shant Dolbakian\, Toronto\n Video Producer\, SD.com Toronto \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n My recent retreat experience has been incredibly beautiful\, challenging and transformative. The teachers are an inspiration in all ways. \n Ava MacLean\, British Columbia\n Communications Professional\, AvaMacLean.com \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It is one thing to hear or read the Dharma and understand it intellectually. This retreat went so much further than that\, as I found myself receiving realizations of the teachings on a visceral basis\, going far beyond simply understanding. \n Bob Abramms\n Founder\, ODT Maps \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n **Covid-19 Update: This retreat now has three retreat options – live at Clear Sky\, live in Germany\, or as an online retreatant \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Details\n\nDāna\nThis course is offered by Qapel & Sensei based on the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. You may have come across this is 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 their joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match their time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy. \n \n \n \n \n \n \nDaily Schedule\n\nDaily Class & Teachings: 5pm in Germany\, 9am MST\nMeditation (Q&A) : 10.00pm in Germany\, 2.00pm MST\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Fees\n\nOnline Retreatant Admin Fee: CA$200 (approx € 135)\n\n \n\nGermany Residential Fee: €695 (includes Food\, Accommodation & technical support).   \n \n\n \n\nClear Sky Residential Fees (Incl. Food & Accomodation – please contact Clear Sky via the registration button below. \n\nTeachers receive no income from these administration fees. They offer their teaching on the basis of generosity\, or Dāna\, which you will have an opportunity to give when you register. \n \n Register Here\n \n \n \n \n \n To register for the in person retreat in Germany please email Andrea Netscher at andreaomtare@me.com. \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 join this Retreat?\n \n \n \n \n \n An 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 experience\, we ask that you refrain from reading\, using the internet or listening to music during the course. We make an exception for journaling\, course assignments and group celebration. \nLastly\, our teachers Quapel and Sensei operate based on the ancient tradition of Dana or Generosity. Please learn more about this profound practice before you register. URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/seven-rays-of-healing-with-medicine-buddha-retreat-in-germany/ LOCATION:Haus Sonnentau\, Am Hochmoor 16\, Lautertal (Odenwald)\, Schannenbach\, 64686\, Germany CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/medicine-buddha-banner.png ORGANIZER;CN="Andrea Netscher":MAILTO:andreaomtare@me.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210919T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210919T160000 DTSTAMP:20260625T050408Z CREATED:20210606T143153Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260625T050408Z UID:10000612-1632063600-1632067200@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Digital Dojo: Spiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers DESCRIPTION:Digital Dojo\n Spiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers\n Training in Dharma is a process of question\, learning and feedback – from your spiritual mentors as well as your community.  Together\, we awaken\, through call and answer and the dialogue of our inquisitive minds. \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 Why the Digital Dojo?\nSpiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers\nThe ‘call and answer’ motif brings beauty to music and bird song. The same goes with the Teacher-Student relationship.  Asking questions to your teachers is a powerful and traditional method of learning in most spiritual traditions. \nIn Zen traditions\, the teacher will also pose questions to the student\, and this is often the case in our tradition.  There is usually no fixed answer to what you seek\, only a better question. \nWhat is the question behind the question? We encourage you to investigate\, ponder\, share what’s on your mind or what is challenging for you.  You might be surprised what you will discover. \nAnd\, through this ‘digital dojo’\, we are also coming together in community. Our shared questions and reflections are a precious opportunity for deepened compassion and wisdom. You may discover that others share the same question as you\, or better yet\, learn the answers to questions you even never thought to ask. This ‘triple gem’ of Buddha\, Dharma and Sangha is a tangible refuge to strengthen your awakening journey. \nNot sure what to expect? You are welcome to attend as an observer and are not required to ask a question. Although participants are encouraged to bring questions\, it is not mandatory.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \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 Session Details\nFees and Dāna\nThese sessions are offered based on the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. \nRegistration\nTo attend\, you must register by the FRIDAY evening prior (9pm MST) to each Digital Dojo on Sunday. These Q&A sessions 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\, please submit your questions by email after registering. The video recording will be available for one week after the live session.\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 \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/digital-dojo-2021-09-19-2/ CATEGORIES:Digital Dojo,Public Classes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/digital-dojo-ver.1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210908 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210921 DTSTAMP:20260428T010831Z CREATED:20260125T183559Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T010831Z UID:10000687-1631059200-1632182399@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:ICON 2026: Showing Up for Integral DESCRIPTION:ICON 2026: Closer to Coherence\n May 28 - 31\, 2026\n Join Catherine Sensei & Sangha at the Integral Conference of North America (ICON) as part of the virtual contingent or in person. \n  \n Register (in person or 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 Where Buddhist Dharma Meets Integral Vision\nWhat happens when ancient wisdom traditions meet cutting-edge frameworks for collective awakening? \nIn May 2026\, Catherine Sensei and Planet Dharma sangha will gather in Denver\, Colorado for ICON 2026—the Integral Conference of North America. This isn’t just an opportunity to attend another conference. It’s an opportunity to be part of a living conversation between Buddhist Dharma and Integral philosophy\, two powerful streams that share a vision of conscious evolution and collective 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 What to Expect\nTriple Gem: Catherine Sensei and sangha will continue\, as always\, to use each moment on this Dharma Trip as an opportunity for teaching\, growth\, and connection together. \nNew Connections: Meet fellow practitioners\, Integral enthusiasts\, and change-makers from around North America. \nCollective Exploration: Experience what emerges when Dharma practitioners gather within the Integral space. \nFresh Perspectives: Discover how Buddhist wisdom and Integral maps illuminate each other. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why This Matters\nWe’re living in a pivotal moment. The challenges we face—from climate crisis to social fragmentation—can’t be solved by individual awakening alone. We need frameworks that honor both the wisdom of contemplative traditions and the complexity of modern life. \nThe Integral approach\, pioneered by Ken Wilber and expanded by thinkers worldwide\, offers a map for navigating this complexity. Combined with the liberating insights of Buddhadharma\, it becomes a powerful catalyst for both personal and collective evolution. \nAlong with Qapel\, Catherine Sensei has been an active voice in the Integral community\, bringing Dharmic perspectives to conversations about conscious community\, shadow work\, and the path forward for humanity. Planet Dharma students are even helping to organize ICON 2026—a testament to the deep synergy between these approaches. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Building on Momentum\nIn 2025\, Sensei and sangha attended the Integral European Conference (IEC)\, where Sensei offered her vision for redefining conscious community through an Integral lens. The response was profoundly positive—confirming that this “marriage” of Buddhadharma and Integral philosophy is exactly what our times are calling for. \n \n \n \n \n \n Video: Catherine Sensei on Integral Evolution\nWatch this introduction to Integral Evolution and why it matters for dharma practitioners today. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Want to understand more about Sensei’s Integral approach? Read her deep dive: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Integral Evolution: A 21st Century Collective AwakeningYou can’t put a pin in spiritual awakening. The fact of the matter is\, there’s a difference between enlightenment in the 4th or 19th century\, and the 21st century. There’s a difference between awakening last year\, and this year\, even between yesterday and today. And we want a 21st century awakening. This is where Integral Evolution comes in. \n– Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n Read \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Us in Denver\nWhether you’re deeply familiar with Integral Theory or completely new to it\, you are welcome. Whether you’ve been practicing Dharma for decades or are just beginning to explore\, there’s a place for you on this adventure with us. \nThis is an invitation to be part of something larger—a movement toward collective awakening that honors both the timeless and the timely. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Conference Details:\n\nEvent: ICON 2026 – Integral Conference of North America\nLocation: Denver\, Colorado\nWhen: May 28-31\, 2026 \nWho: Open to all—Dharma practitioners\, Integral enthusiasts\, and the curious\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n You can register for the event here\, using Planet Dharma’s affiliate link:\n \n REGISTER \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Want a taste of these conversations?\nWatch Catherine Sensei in dialogue with Layman Pascal\, a key voice in the Integral community\, as they explore the intersection of Buddhist practice\, shadow work\, and collective awakening: \nThis rich exchange gives you a window into how Dharma and Integral frameworks illuminate each other—and why bringing these perspectives together at ICON 2026 matters. \n \n \n \n \n \n QuestionsQuestions about joining the ICON 2026 Dharma trip? Contact chris@planetdharma.com \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Sensei & Layman Pascal: Buddhism Meets Integral \n \n \n \n \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 Dharma Trips\n \n \n \n \n \n \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 is a Dharma Trip different than a holiday?\n \n \n \n \n \n It’s easy to mistake a dharma trip for a holiday somewhere exciting. However\, dharma trips are not really about what you might see or do. Sure\, sightseeing is great (and we will do a bunch of that)\, but dharma trips are really about bringing your growth and unfoldment to the road and to new environments. These trips are an opportunity to spend precious time with your dharma teachers and community in a new environment. It might be exciting\, challenging\, joyful and exhausting – all in one day\, but whatever happens\, we have an opportunity to practice and grow more conscious. \nWhat are some ways to approach the trip?\n\nThe trip is an opportunity to practice Meditation on the Fly\nStay focused on the teachers\, as they teach 24/7.\nPractice being in conscious community with sangha\, as they are indispensable mirrors for our unfoldment. You might say that we can learn from ‘group guru’.\nAn open mind and heart\, and a spirit of adventure are excellent things to bring.  It’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.\n\n\nAttention to details and schedules – always arrive early\, 10 minutes before the teachers to keep the group moving as planned.\nArrive with a spirit of generosity and a constant state of question – how can I grow? How can I support and engage with my Teachers and community as a bodhisattva in training?\n\n  \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Past Dharma Trips Photo Gallery\n \n \n \n \n \n Doug and Catherine Sensei have travelled widely with students over the past 20 years. Trips destinations have included Mongolia\, Peru and Galapagos\, Jordan and Egypt\, South Africa (twice)\, Cambodia and Burma\, Laos and Bhutan\, India and Ladakh\, Costa Rica and Guatemala\, Antartica and Argentina\, Brazil\, Ireland and Scotland\, Greece and Israel\, Mexico\, Grand Canyon USA\, Germany and Japan… \nHere are a selection of  photos from 2019’s trip to Mexico (courtesy of Ava MacLean) and 2008’s trip to Bhutan (courtesy of Sarah Brayer):\n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mexico trip 1\n \n \n \n \n Mexico trip 2\n \n \n \n \n Mexico trip 3\n \n \n \n \n Mexico trip 4\n \n \n \n \n Mexico trip 5 Lamas Boat\n \n \n \n \n Bhutan trip 1\n \n \n \n \n Bhutan trip 4\n \n \n \n \n Bhutan trip 2\n \n \n \n \n Bhutan trip 3\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n And\, it is a tradition…\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Namgyal Rinpoche’s Dharma Trips\nVenerable Namgyal Rinpoche spent a great deal of time travelling with students\, often on ships (usually freighters).  They would sail from port to port\, on an unpredictable schedule. The ship provided retreat-like conditions – a contained environment with nowhere to run (!)\, alongside opportunities to see new and interesting countries. \nDoug Duncan Sensei speaks fondly of the many travel experiences he had with Namgyal Rinpoche: \nI was on many of Namgyal Rinpoche’s freighter trips\, at least 5 or 6  – the freighter’s job was to deliver goods\, so you weren’t going to Paris\, you went to unusual\, obscure places in Africa\, India\, remote islands…  While on the boat\, there wasn’t a lot of distractions. Your meals and housekeeping were taken care of by the boat crew. There was no entertainment.  There was no internet. You were there to do your dharma work\, to study and meditate.  \nWhen we arrived at port we’d get off and do a tour or some exploration for a few days or a week\, depending on how long the ship needed to be there unloading.  The contained environment with no more than 15 students made for an intense ongoing day in day out experience. Everyone who had that experience came away more awakened than when they got on the boat. \nRinpoche later graduated from freighter style transport – he got involved with more exotic places and ways to travel.  He took dive trips off the coast of Thailand and the South Pacific\, he was on one of the first commercial trips via the North West Passage to the North Pole\, he visited Antarctica.  This was all by way of getting students away from their home country and typical engagements\, getting them meditative\, quiet\, exploring and discovering. \n–Doug Duncan Sensei\, November 4\, 2020 \n \n \n \n \n \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 Dharma Trip Travellers 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 On Dharma Trips\, you are out of your comfort zone\, you’re not held down by habitual patterns and you get the joy of receiving training when you are more open and vulnerable. I love the stimulation of seeing and learning new things\, tasting new food\, speaking new languages.  It is exploration and dharma training combined.\n Karen McAllister\, Canada/Ireland\n The Mindful Money Coach \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I have been on several dharma trips – to Burma\, Cambodia\, Costa Rica and Bhutan. I saw how Lama-mind can change course to respond with compassion\, that might be outside expectations or ‘the written plan’. There are many liberating moments between Lamas and students. Being part of a group lets one witness many teachings on the spot\, and have time to integrate and absorb them together.\n Sarah Brayer\, Kyoto/USA\n Artist\, Sarah Brayer Studios \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dharma trips are an incredible way to deepen connection with the Teachers\, teachings and sangha\, while simultaneously experiencing new people\, places and adventures. A rare and precious opportunity indeed.\n Ava MacLean\, BC Canada\n Sex & Relationship Coach\, Kootenay Somatics URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/icon-2026-dharma-trip-to-denver/ CATEGORIES:Dharma Trip,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ICON2026.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210908 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210921 DTSTAMP:20260610T064407Z CREATED:20201031T014824Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260610T064407Z UID:10000435-1631059200-1632182399@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Baltic Sea Region Dharma Trip 2021 DESCRIPTION:Baltic Sea Region Dharma Trip\n September 8-20\, 2021\n Bring your dharma to the road\, or in this case\, the water!  Join Doug and Catherine Sensei for a cruise of the Baltic Sea Region\, from Stockholm to Amsterdam in September 2021. \n OverviewAbout Dharma Trips\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Baltic Sea Region Dharma Trip\nA Dharma Voyage\, from Stockholm to Amsterdam  \nBring your dharma to the road\, or in this case\, the water!  Join Doug and Catherine Sensei for a twelve day cruise of the Baltic Sea Region\, in September 2021.  \nDharma trips provide an opportunity to spend precious time with your teachers and sangha outside of more familiar contexts. On Dharma trips\, you are constantly moving\, seeing and experiencing new things. This takes us outside of our comfort zone\, and provides a rich environment for growth. You might even discover things about yourself you never knew\, and find new ways of being and communicating.   \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where will we visit on this trip?\n \n \n \n \n \n Including our departure and destination ports\, there are stops in 10 cities on this trip. They include:\nStockholm (Sweden)\, Helsinki (Finland)\, St Petersberg (Russia) (2 nights)\, Tallin (Estonia)\, Riga (Latvia)\, Copenhagen (Denmark)\, Berlin (Germany)\, Malmo (Sweden)\, Oslo (Norway)\, Amsterdam (Netherlands).  Enjoy some photos of these destinations below: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Oceania-Cruises-Marina\n \n \n \n \n Stockholm\, Sweden\n \n \n \n \n Amsterdam\, Netherland\n \n \n \n \n Tallin\, Estonia\n \n \n \n \n Norway\n \n \n \n \n St. Petersberg\, Russia\n \n \n \n \n Riga\, Latvia\n \n \n \n \n Copenhagen \, Denemark\n \n \n \n \n Berlin\, Germany\n \n \n \n \n Helsinki\, Finland\n \n \n \n \n Malmo\, Sweden\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Baltic Sea Region Dharma Trip 2021\nFAQs\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q1: What kind of dharma voyage is this?\n This is a cruise around the perimeter of the Baltic Sea\, beginning in Stockholm and ending in Amsterdam. It’s called “Castles to Cobblestones.” See the webpage for this cruise: Oceania Cruises.\n \n \n \n \n \n Q2: Where does it stop?\n Including our departure and destination ports\, there are stops in 10 cities:\nStockholm\, Sweden\nHelsinki\, Finland\,\nSt Petersberg\, Russia (2 nights)\nTallin\, Estonia\nRiga\, Latvia\nCopenhagen\, Denmark\nBerlin\, Germany\nMalmo\, Sweden\nOslo\, Noway\nAmsterdam\, Netherlands\n \n \n \n \n \n Q3: What are the dates?\n Sept 8-20\, 2021 \n \n \n \n \n \n Q5: How much does the trip cost?\n Fares begin at C$ 3\,899 / approx USD 2970 / approx EUR 2510 per person (using approx. exchange rates from 11 Oct 2020).\nSee the Oceania webpage for this cruise to see the costs in your local currency here.\n\nThe fare increases depending on:\n\ncabin type (see the webpage to choose your cabin type);\nwhether or not you also purchase round trip air fare from your origin country as part of the cruise package;\nhow many and what kind of tours you choose to go on in each port\nwhether or not you purchase medical and travel insurance from Oceania.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Q4: How many days of sightseeing will there be?\n Including Stockholm and Amsterdam (our departure and destination ports)\, there are 11 days of sightseeing. Two days will consist of traveling at sea. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q6: When do I have to book? Will the fares go down if I wait? \n Whenever you like. Oceania’s better deals are further in advance.\nThey will hold a reservation for one week\, at which time they need a minimum US$750 deposit per person. The balance is due before June 10 (confirm at time of booking).\n\nNote that as of the first week of October 2020\, 300 of the boat’s 630 cabins were already reserved.\n \n \n \n \n \n Q7: How do I book a cabin? \n You can contact Oceania directly (see contact details below)\, or you can have your travel agent book for you. The fare will be the same\, either way. Please email Andrea at andreaomtare@me.com to let her know you’ve booked\, so she can keep a list of dharma voyage participants. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q8: What currency do I have to pay in?\n They accept various currencies. When you make a reservation you can lock in that day’s exchange rate – contact your local Oceania office (see below) for more information.\n \n \n \n \n \n Q9: Are Doug and Cata Senseis definitely going? \n They have made reservations and paid deposits. They’re planning to go unless it’s impossible to travel or the cruises are not sailing (i.e.\, due to covid). \n \n \n \n \n \n Q10: Will the boat sail\, with covid? \n That remains to be seen. At present\, all cruises have been suspended until November. Oceania is now developing a plan with major health organizations so their passengers can sail safely. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q11: Can I cancel and get a free refund? \n A: Yes. The date until which you can get a full refund depends on when you pay your deposit. For a deposit made on Oct 7\, a full refund is available until May 10.After that\, you can cancel and receive a full credit for any sailing through 2022 up to 15 days before the cruise departs (Aug 23\, 2021). Confirm at time of booking. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q12: Is the air fare package with Oceania a good deal?\n We found the fare they quoted competitive. Please check with Oceania and compare for yourself. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q13: What kind of boat is it?\n The Marina is one of Oceania’s newer boats. It is considered relatively small\, with 630 rooms\, accommodating 1250 people. Most of Oceania’s boats sail at full capacity\, though they sail even when they are not. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q14: Are meals included? \n All meals on the boat are included\, with two central dining rooms and four specialized restaraunts. The food is considered a highlight. Meals do not include alcohol\, unless you choose that as your OLife amenities package with Oceania.\n \nIn port\, meals may or may not be included in each tour – ones with meals included are indicated with a fork and knife symbol on the pdf describing all the tours.\n \n \n \n \n \n Q15: What do we do in port? \n There are many different tours available in each port for you to choose from\, for an extra fee (some tours may be included as part of your OLife amenities package\, depending on the one you choose).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Q16: Can we explore on our own without a tour / what tours are available? \n Yes\, except in Russia\, where we are required to do the Oceania tours. See attached pdf of tours that are available: Stockholm to Amsterdam tours (USD version).\nPlease contact Oceania for tour prices in your currency.\n \n \n \n \n \n Q17: If we’d like to explore on our own\, are there concierge services available on the cruise ship? \n You’re welcome to ask staff for recommendations. If any arrangements need to be made\, that falls under customized travel arrangements. Oceania can help you with this based on your requests 180 days prior to sailing. Oceania can procure tickets\, services\, and provide pricing\, etc. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q18: How big are the tour group sizes? \n The standard tour sizes are around 30 people\, with a maximum of 40. There is one guide. Headsets are generally not used.   \nPremium tours are available with group sizes of 10-16. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q19: When do I need to decide which tour excursions I’m going on? \n You can decide up until 10 days before the tour departs\, but many fill up before then. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q20: Do I need visas for each country?\n Americans and Canadians don’t need visas except a visa for Russia (which Oceania will take care of). Other nationalities need to inquire in advance about visas at their local Oceania office.\n \n \n \n \n \n Q23: How can I find out more? \n  See the Oceania webpage for this tour here. \nSee the Oceania FAQ here.\n\nIn Canada and the U.S\, contact Carl @ Oceania  at 1-305-514-2300\, x 42138\, Mon-Th 9:30-6:00 ET.\nIn the UK\, Oceania can be reached at 0345 505 1920\nFrom Germany\, Austria and Switzerland\, call +49 69 2222 33 00. Click here for the Oceania website in German.\nFind your nearest Oceania office on their Contact Us webpage.\n \n \n \n \n \n Q24: Are there prerequisites to attend?\n This trip is open to existing Dharma students\, or those who have attended classes/courses with us before. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q25: Dāna / Generosity Practice?\n This trip 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 opportunity to practice your Dharma ‘on the road’\, 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. \nFor more information on dāna click here. \n \n \n \n \n \n Q26: How do I register?\n Contact Andrea Netscher if you’re interested in coming on the cruise with us. Andrea will let Doug and Catherine Sensei know. Her email is: andreaomtare@me.com \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Dharma Trips\n \n \n \n \n \n \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 is a Dharma Trip different than a holiday?\n \n \n \n \n \n It’s easy to mistake a dharma trip for a holiday somewhere exciting. However\, dharma trips are not really about what you might see or do. Sure\, sightseeing is great (and we will do a bunch of that)\, but dharma trips are really about bringing your growth and unfoldment to the road and to new environments. These trips are an opportunity to spend precious time with your dharma teachers and community in a new environment. It might be exciting\, challenging\, joyful and exhausting – all in one day\, but whatever happens\, we have an opportunity to practice and grow more conscious. \nWhat are some ways to approach the trip?\n\nThe trip is an opportunity to practice Meditation on the Fly\nStay focused on the teachers\, as they teach 24/7.\nPractice being in conscious community with sangha\, as they are indispensable mirrors for our unfoldment. You might say that we can learn from ‘group guru’.\nAn open mind and heart\, and a spirit of adventure are excellent things to bring.  It’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.\n\n\nAttention to details and schedules – always arrive early\, 10 minutes before the teachers to keep the group moving as planned.\nArrive with a spirit of generosity and a constant state of question – how can I grow? How can I support and engage with my Teachers and community as a bodhisattva in training?\n\n \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Past Dharma Trips Photo Gallery\n \n \n \n \n \n Doug and Catherine Sensei have travelled widely with students over the past 20 years. Trips destinations have included Mongolia\, Peru and Galapagos\, Jordan and Egypt\, South Africa (twice)\, Cambodia and Burma\, Laos and Bhutan\, India and Ladakh\, Costa Rica and Guatemala\, Antartica and Argentina\, Brazil\, Ireland and Scotland\, Greece and Israel\, Mexico\, Grand Canyon USA\, Germany and Japan… \nHere are a selection of  photos from 2019’s trip to Mexico (courtesy of Ava MacLean) and 2008’s trip to Bhutan (courtesy of Sarah Brayer): \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mexico trip 1\n \n \n \n \n Mexico trip 2\n \n \n \n \n Mexico trip 3\n \n \n \n \n Mexico trip 4\n \n \n \n \n Mexico trip 5 Lamas Boat\n \n \n \n \n Bhutan trip 1\n \n \n \n \n Bhutan trip 4\n \n \n \n \n Bhutan trip 2\n \n \n \n \n Bhutan trip 3\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n And\, it is a tradition…\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Namgyal Rinpoche’s Dharma Trips\nVenerable Namgyal Rinpoche spent a great deal of time travelling with students\, often on ships (usually freighters).  They would sail from port to port\, on an unpredictable schedule. The ship provided retreat-like conditions – a contained environment with nowhere to run (!)\, alongside opportunities to see new and interesting countries. \nDoug Duncan Sensei speaks fondly of the many travel experiences he had with Namgyal Rinpoche: \nI was on many of Namgyal Rinpoche’s freighter trips\, at least 5 or 6  – the freighter’s job was to deliver goods\, so you weren’t going to Paris\, you went to unusual\, obscure places in Africa\, India\, remote islands…  While on the boat\, there wasn’t a lot of distractions. Your meals and housekeeping were taken care of by the boat crew. There was no entertainment.  There was no internet. You were there to do your dharma work\, to study and meditate.  \nWhen we arrived at port we’d get off and do a tour or some exploration for a few days or a week\, depending on how long the ship needed to be there unloading.  The contained environment with no more than 15 students made for an intense ongoing day in day out experience. Everyone who had that experience came away more awakened than when they got on the boat. \nRinpoche later graduated from freighter style transport – he got involved with more exotic places and ways to travel.  He took dive trips off the coast of Thailand and the South Pacific\, he was on one of the first commercial trips via the North West Passage to the North Pole\, he visited Antarctica.  This was all by way of getting students away from their home country and typical engagements\, getting them meditative\, quiet\, exploring and discovering.  \n–Doug Duncan Sensei\, November 4\, 2020 \n  \n \n \n \n \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Dharma Trip Travellers 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 On Dharma Trips\, you are out of your comfort zone\, you’re not held down by habitual patterns and you get the joy of receiving training when you are more open and vulnerable. I love the stimulation of seeing and learning new things\, tasting new food\, speaking new languages.  It is exploration and dharma training combined. \n Karen McAllister\, Canada/Ireland\n The Mindful Money Coach \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I have been on several dharma trips – to Burma\, Cambodia\, Costa Rica and Bhutan. I saw how Lama-mind can change course to respond with compassion\, that might be outside expectations or ‘the written plan’. There are many liberating moments between Lamas and students. Being part of a group lets one witness many teachings on the spot\, and have time to integrate and absorb them together. \n Sarah Brayer\, Kyoto/USA\n Artist\, Sarah Brayer Studios \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dharma trips are an incredible way to deepen connection with the Teachers\, teachings and sangha\, while simultaneously experiencing new people\, places and adventures. A rare and precious opportunity indeed.\n Ava MacLean\, BC Canada\n Sex & Relationship Coach\, Kootenay Somatics URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/baltic-trip/ CATEGORIES:Dharma Trip,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Stockholm-Sweden-e1604705321421.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210905T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210905T160000 DTSTAMP:20260622T055908Z CREATED:20210606T135019Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T055908Z UID:10000446-1630854000-1630857600@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:The Great Healing (Enlighten-Up!) DESCRIPTION:Enlighten-Up!\n \n Topic: The Great Healing \n  \n  \nUncompromising\, unflinching and kick-ass dharma classes.  Vajrayana Teachers Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat present a new topic each month.  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: \nThe Great Healing and the Seven Rays\nDuring these times of pandemics and uncertainty\, we may find the Seven Rays of Healing help enlighten our path. Namgyal Rinpoche taught extensively on this ancient tradition\, found in various forms among the ancient Egyptians\, Vedas\, Mithraism\, Greeks\, gnosticism\, early Catholicism\, Western Mysteries\, and the Theosophists and New Age. It references the chakras\, astronomy\, Hinduism\, alchemists\, medieval European art\, and symbology from the New Testament. \nWhat kind of circumlocutious course has the Seven Rays taken through human spirituality? How has it been expressed through the body of teachings from Namgyal Rinpoche? More pointedly\, how can it be useful to us today\, when healing is so longed for and needed? \nThis Enlighten Up gives a preview of the Sept 25-Oct. 2 Seven Rays of Healing Retreat\, offered online as well as on site by our sangha in Germany. \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 monthly(ish) 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. \nThe topic of the classes will change each month.  They 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 ask questions at the end of the class. \nVideo recordings are available 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 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. \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\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. \nThere is also a monthly Digital Dojo session (previously Office Hours) to bring your questions to Doug and Catherine Sensei.   \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 \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/great-healing-enlighten-up-2021-09-05/ CATEGORIES:Public Classes,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:20210821 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210901 DTSTAMP:20260610T063216Z CREATED:20210316T221019Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260610T063216Z UID:10000443-1629504000-1630454399@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Dzogchen Meditation Retreat - Opening to the Clear Light of the Mind (Online & UK Residential) DESCRIPTION:Opening to the Clear Light of the Mind\n Dzogchen Meditation Retreat (Online/UK Residential/At Clear Sky)\n August 21-31\, 2021\nBeneath the confusion and distraction of our minds\, the Mind itself is empty\, spontaneous and compassionate.  The practice of Dzogchen helps us cut right through the confusion to this original\, pure and luminous nature of Mind.   \nThis retreat\, with meditation masters Acharya Doug Duncan And Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, is for any meditator looking to go deeper to the essence of practice.   \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dzogchen\nThe Natural State \nThe Three Words that Strike the Vital Point is one of the principal teachings of the practice of Dzogchen\, the Great Perfection.  Patrul Rinpoche’s Special Teaching of the Wise and Glorious King\, with commentary\, is treasured as one of the most crucial instructions in the practice of Dzogchen. It’s pith teachings give simple yet deeply profound guidance on directly recognizing the mind’s innate purity and clarity. \nIn the confusion of our times\, a myriad of teachings and techniques surround us. The direct teachings of Dzogchen offer a refreshing clarity. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Opening to the Clear Light of the Mind\nDzogchen Meditation Retreat  \n(Online/ UK Residential / At Clear Sky) 21 – 31 August 2021\n    \n  \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n**See ‘Covid-19 Retreat Modifications’ below photos: Online and UK Residential Retreat \n(Updated June 20\, 2021)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “How wonderful!  Nothing whatsoever\, a glaring openness.  An openness that is penetrating; a penetrating openness that is indescribable … \nDirect recognition within yourself; that is the first vital point.” \n— Patrul Rinpoche from The three words that strike the vital point\, a root text expounding Garab Dorje’s teachings on Dzogchen – the Great Perfection. \n \n \n \n \n \n Why do a Retreat on Dzogchen?\nRelaxing the mind\, dropping words\, the practice leads us towards an experience of profound openness.  From this place of clarity and origin\, new perspectives can arise.  We gain confidence founded on our own direct experience that wisdom and compassion are possible\, and in fact an inherent part of our nature.  Learning to rest more and more in this inherent nature of mind lets us bring this experience of openness into every moment\, transforming how we live and act.   \nFrom daily life to Dzogchen can be a sudden step\, so as well as the teachings of the Three Words\, the Teachers will draw on another key text: the ‘Progressive Stages of Meditation on Emptiness’ a treatise by Khenpo Tsultrim Gyamsto Rinpoche\, to help gain a deeper understanding. \nDrawing on decades of personal practice and teaching experience\, Acharya Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei will lead you with practical experiential exercises and humour\, explore the nature of Mind beyond the surface confusions. \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Covid 19 Retreat Modifications\nA silver lining of Covid-19 travel restrictions is that this retreat will now be accessible to an international audience. With the teachers not travelling beyond BC\, Canada this year\, we are offering an online option for this retreat. For those who can join us at Maitreya House in the UK\, there will be an in-person group retreat. Both options will have live streamed classes and meditations. \n \n \n \n \n \n What’s Expected of Me if I Sign Up for This Retreat?\n \n \n \n \n \n  The Course \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 online\, 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.\n\n \nMore info   \n \n\nThe retreat is hosted by Planet Dharma & Dharma Europe. \nThese teachings operate on the basis of the ancient tradition of dāna or generosity. Please learn more about this profound practice before you register. \nWe aspire that no-one is excluded from hearing the Dharma due to lack of funds.  If you are unable to afford this admin fee\, please contact Jonathan to discuss options.\n\n \n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Online Retreat\nBasic requirements to do the retreat online:· Block out the ten days and be focused on the retreat for this entire period\, using this time and participating in the retreat as if you were at the retreat centre in person. This includes a rigorous\, full\, daily meditation schedule.· Participate in all of the daily classes and group practices via online streaming.· Set 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.· Put away your phone\, digital devices and other distractions.· If there are enough people in the same time zone as you\, you could also make a cohort to meet and do group practice throughout the retreat. \nThe Teachers\, Dharma Europe and Clear Sky Retreat centre from which classes will be streamed\,  all operate based on the ancient tradition of dāna or generosity. Please learn more about this profound practice before you register. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n UK Residential Retreat – Attending in person at Maitreya House\n· Maitreya House is a beautiful retreat centre located in the golden valley\, a remote part of Herefordshire\, near the Welsh border in the United Kingdom.· Learn more about the retreat location: Maitreya House.· There will be appropriate Covid 19 protocols followed on this retreat – with numbers limited to 12 people at Maitreya House.· The retreat is hosted by Dharma Europe.· The teachers and Dharma Europe operate on the basis of the ancient tradition of dāna or generosity. Please learn more about this profound practice before you register. \nFor UK and general enquiries contact Jonathan Clifford\,dharmaeurope@outlook.com +44 7891 621865. \nIn-person at Clear Sky\nIf you are local to Clear Sky in BC\, Canada you may also choose to be onsite in person to where the teachers are streaming from.  We invite you to book a personal retreat cabin for the duration of the retreat.  See here for details.  Or contact us the Clear Sky team to discuss other options. \n \n \n \n \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.  \n \n \n \n \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 World class teachings from world class people! Doug and Catherine Sensei are the real deal and they ultimately want one thing for you – to guide you toward awakening with totality and intelligence. Planet Dharma’s steadfast\, professional commitment to meet the needs of seekers today is impressive. What a precious gift to have access to these wisdom teachings and practices from anywhere in the world; Live online and in connection with others as well as on-demand courses and podcasts. Clear Sky in-person immersions set in a pristine landscape offer the opportunity to come back to center while having the support of an established compassionate sangha to help deepen the experience. So grateful for having met this community!Florence\, Italy \n Nishta Matarese\, Italy\n Transformational Coach & Open Floor Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ancient teaching that I feel is important to understand if someone was serious about meditation practice. I appreciate the teachers\, Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat\, unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these rich practices. These practices are life changing\, so it is great that we can have teachers that will explore the rich history with us\, and deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \n Jenai Lieu\, Canada\n Psychology student \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I recommend these down to earth teachers bringing dharma to the planet. It’s great that classes can be watched in person\, virtually\, or within a week depending on one`s schedule. Increase the awareness\, compassion\, wisdom\, strength\, and joy in your life! \n Brendan Ries\, Australia\n Life coach\, teacher & artist \n \n \n \n \n \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\, as well as an administration fee. \n\nOnline Retreatant Admin Fee: CA$250\nUK Residential Admin Fee CA$250 (Approx £150) plus\nUK  Residential Fees £550 (Inc. Food & Accommodation)\nClear Sky Residential Fees (Inc. Food & Accomodation – please contact Clear Sky via the registration button below.\nTeachers receive no income from these administration fees. They offer their teaching on the basis of generosity\, or Dāna\, which you will have an opportunity to give when you register.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Please register here: \n \n Registration URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/clear-light-retreat-uk-2021/ LOCATION:Maitreya House\, Lower Maes-coed\, Hereford\, England\, HR2 0HP\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Clear-Light-retreat-banners.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Dharma Europe - Jonathan Clifford":MAILTO:dharmaeurope@outlook.com GEO:51.9720215;-2.9511638 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Maitreya House Lower Maes-coed Hereford England HR2 0HP United Kingdom;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Lower Maes-coed:geo:-2.9511638,51.9720215 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210813 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210816 DTSTAMP:20260610T063350Z CREATED:20210614T161842Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260610T063350Z UID:10000610-1628812800-1629071999@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Clear Sky's Sweet 16th Anniversary with Tantric Empowerments DESCRIPTION:Clear Sky's Sweet 16 & Tantric Empowerments\n Weekend Celebration | August 13-15\n In Vajrayana Buddhism\, initiations\, empowerments or wongkur (Tib. དབང་\, wang) are considered the spring from which all blessings flow. Join us for three empowerments\, during a weekend of joy to celebrate our retreat centre’s 16th anniversary. \nImportant Note: \nOnline registrations close by August 10th \nIn person registrations close by August 3rd  \n  \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 Celebration & Tantric Empowerments\n\n\n\nCelebration time! Covid-19 travel restrictions threw a wrench in our plans for Clear Sky’s 15th Anniversary and ten day Tantric Deep Dive in 2020\, as well as in 2021.  We’ve adjusted the programming so that community can come together from anywhere in the world for a three day celebration instead. It will be online\, *and if health restrictions ease\, possibly in person as well. \nTo fete Doug Sensei’s 72nd year\, together with 16 remarkable years at Clear Sky we invite you to join us for three empowerments. \nThese empowerments give you an energetic blessing\, and access to practice mantra and visualisation of different transcendental archetypes from the Himalayan schools of Buddhism. \nOver the weekend\, we will celebrate Clear Sky’s 16th anniversary – sharing our community’s stories from past and present as well as future visions..  The three wongkur empowerments will be interspersed throughout the weekend. \nHeld at Clear Sky\, a 21st-century model for innovative awakening\, situated in the beautiful B.C. Rocky Mountains. \n  \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Empowerments Offered\n\nGreen Tara\nAmitayus\nVajrapani Hayagriva Garuda\n\nThese empowerments are open to the general public (live attendance).  They are special ceremonies that are best experienced in person. However\, if you cannot come live\,  we ask that you have attended events with us in the past\, or have some experience with vajrayana deity 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 16th Anniversary and Tantric Empowerments Weekend Schedule*\n*exact times being confirmed. \nFriday Schedule – August 13th \n\nArrival time: 11am Friday August 13th (onsite participants)\n4pm Green Tara Empowerment [available online]\n7:30pm Anniversary Opening and Japanese Cocktail Party with the Teachers. [available online]\n\nSaturday Schedule – August 14th \n\n9:30am-11:30am MST: Catherine Sensei presenting on the History of Clear Sky [available online]\n4pm Amitayus Empowerment [available online]\n7:30pm: Community Sharing Open Mic [available online]\n8:30pm: Dancing [available online]\n\nSunday Schedule – August 15th \n\n9:30-11:00am: Looking to the Future – Community visioning and temple update [available online].\n4pm Vajrapani Hayagriva Garuda Empowerment [available online]\nCelebrations officially end with the wongkur on Sunday afternoon. There is also the option to stay for dinner.\n\nOnline Participants Wongkur Orientation \n\n2pm MST (Tentative. Time to be confirmed) before each wongkur on Friday\, Saturday and Sunday.\n24 hour online practice rooms will be available.\n\nParticipants coming onsite for empowerments only \n\nPlease register online and arrive by 3pm MST before each empowerment. Please also call 250-429-3929 to confirm we have received your registration.\n\n \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n   \nParticipants coming onsite for empowerments only \n\nIf you would like to come to the empowerments only\, but not the anniversary weekend\, please register online and arrive by 3pm MST before each empowerment. Please also call 250-429-3929 to confirm we have received your registration and details.\n\n \n  \n \n \n \n \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 The Empowerments Offered\n\nGreen Tara\nAmitayus\nVajrapani Hayagriva Garuda\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Suggested Reading\nWe highly recommend you read What is Wong Kur – Explanations by Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche and H.H. Sakya Trizin” compiled by Wesley Knapp\, prior to registering for 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 Clear Sky’s 16th Anniversary\nA Weekend Celebration\nAugust 13-15\, 2021 \nJoin us in-person for the weekend\, or if you can’t make it live\, for the online celebration. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Countless hands have contributed to building our incredible center\, Clear Sky. It is with deep gratitude that we excitedly share this opportunity to join in celebration\, connection and growth. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Location: Clear Sky Center\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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.\nHow to get there\, what to bring and other FAQ about Clear Sky\nBooking a flight? Airport pickups can be booked when you register for the retreat. In the event that this retreat is cancelled\, we highly recommend purchasing travel insurance.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Friday Schedule \n\nArrival time: 11am \nOrientation & Welcome: 11:30am\n12:20pm: Lunch\n4pm: Green Tara Empowerment\n\nOnline Participants Wongkur Orientation \n\n2pm MST (Tentative. Time to be confirmed) before each wongkur on Friday\, Saturday and Sunday.\n\n \n  \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 Through the power of long dedication\, deep meditation\, and wise guidance\, life can definitely be transformed. If you get a chance to study with Doug-sensei and Catherine\, don’t miss it. This kind of spiritual guidance and down to earth work have deeply shifted many people’s lives and led to deep awakenings. \n Paul Jaffe\,USA\n Retired Professor & Meditation Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Doug and Catherine Sensei are living examples of the dharma teachings.  In their presence\, they have the ability to put me at ease and their teachings (somewhat mysteriously) become alive and intimate. I trust in their one-pointed focus on whatever it takes to speed their students unrealized potential. \n Laura Montgomery\, Canada\n Counsellor & Mum of Two \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It is one thing to hear or read the Dharma and understand it intellectually. This retreat went so much further than that\, as I found myself receiving realizations of the teachings on a visceral basis\, going far beyond simply understanding. \n Bob Abraamms\n Founder\, ODT Maps \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Details\nFees and Dāna\nThis two night\, three day celebration package at Clear Sky retreat center includes accommodation and all meals. There are cabin\, shared and tenting accommodation options available. Click on the registration link for details and pricing. \nFor online participants\, there is a $75 administration fee to cover administrative and other costs of hosting the online empowerments and anniversary.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Register Here for the Weekend: \n \n 16th Anniversary weekend (In-Person)\n \n 16th Anniversary weekend (online)\n \n \n \n \n \n Empowerments Registration\nAfter registering for the 16th anniversary weekend\, please register for each empowerment individually via the buttons below.  If you cannot attend the whole weekend it is also possible to attend individual empowerments. \nWe highly recommend that you attend these empowerments in person. They are very special events and transmissions where live attendance gives you the full experience. If you cannot attend in person\, but have attended events with us in the past\, or have done vajrayana deity practice in the past\, it is possible to attend online. \nThese empowerments are offered by Doug and Catherine Sensei through the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Empowerments Schedule\n\nGreen Tara: 4:00pm MST Friday August 13th\nAmitayus: 4:00pm MST Saturday August 14th\nVajrapani Hayagriva Garuda: 4:00pm MST Sunday August 15th\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Empowerments:\n \n Green Tara Empowerment\n \n Amitayus Empowerment\n \n Vajrapani Hayagriva Garuda Empowerment URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/clear-skys-sweet-16th-anniversary-with-tantric-empowerments/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210801T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210801T160000 DTSTAMP:20260619T051255Z CREATED:20210211T135946Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260619T051255Z UID:10000442-1627830000-1627833600@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Digital Dojo: Spiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers DESCRIPTION:Digital Dojo\n Spiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers\n Training in Dharma is a process of question\, learning and feedback – from your spiritual mentors as well as your community.  Together\, we awaken\, through call and answer and the dialogue of our inquisitive minds. \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 Why the Digital Dojo?\nSpiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers\nThe ‘call and answer’ motif brings beauty to music and bird song. The same goes with the Teacher-Student relationship.  Asking questions to your teachers is a powerful and traditional method of learning in most spiritual traditions. \nIn Zen traditions\, the teacher will also pose questions to the student\, and this is often the case in our tradition.  There is usually no fixed answer to what you seek\, only a better question. \nWhat is the question behind the question? We encourage you to investigate\, ponder\, share what’s on your mind or what is challenging for you.  You might be surprised what you will discover. \nAnd\, through this ‘digital dojo’\, we are also coming together in community. Our shared questions and reflections are a precious opportunity for deepened compassion and wisdom. You may discover that others share the same question as you\, or better yet\, learn the answers to questions you even never thought to ask. This ‘triple gem’ of Buddha\, Dharma and Sangha is a tangible refuge to strengthen your awakening journey. \nNot sure what to expect? You are welcome to attend as an observer and are not required to ask a question. Although participants are encouraged to bring questions\, it is not mandatory.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \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 Session Details\nFees and Dāna\nThese sessions are offered based on the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. \nRegistration\nTo attend\, you must register by the FRIDAY evening prior (9pm MST) to each Digital Dojo on Sunday. These Q&A sessions 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\, please submit your questions by email after registering. The video recording will be available for one week after the live session. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/digital-dojo-2021-08-01-2/ CATEGORIES:Digital Dojo,Public Classes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/digital-dojo-ver.1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210718T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210718T160000 DTSTAMP:20260619T051020Z CREATED:20210211T135632Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260619T051020Z UID:10000441-1626620400-1626624000@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Enlighten-Up! DESCRIPTION:Enlighten-Up!\n \n Topic: The Clear Light of the Mind. \n  \n  \nUncompromising\, unflinching and kick-ass dharma classes.  Vajrayana Teachers Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat present a new topic each month.  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: \nThe Clear Light of the Mind.\nBeneath the confusion and distraction of our minds\, the Mind itself is empty\, spontaneous and compassionate.  How do we cut right through to this original\, pure and luminous nature of Mind? \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 monthly(ish) 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. \nThe topic of the classes will change each month.  They 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 ask questions at the end of the class. \nVideo recordings are available 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 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. \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\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. \nThere is also a monthly Digital Dojo session (previously Office Hours) to bring your questions to Doug and Catherine Sensei.   \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 \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/enlighten-up-2021-07-18/ CATEGORIES:Public Classes,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:20210709 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210717 DTSTAMP:20260611T050216Z CREATED:20210103T190327Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260611T050216Z UID:10000606-1625788800-1626479999@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Summer Meditation Retreat: Breathing (Online) DESCRIPTION:Summer Meditation Retreat: Breathing\n Meditation Retreat ONLINE | July 9-16\, 2021\n A one week meditation retreat on powerful breathing meditation practice. \nPlease note that registration closes July 4th 2021. \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 Summer Meditation Retreat: Breathing\n\nBreathing. You can’t beat it\, for life\, and as a meditation practice. Breathing meditation is suitable for all types of people.  It develops\, concentration\, calm\, bliss and insight – altogether leading to awakening and healing. \nThis meditation retreat will be led by Achariya Doug Duncan Sensei and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei at Clear Sky Meditation Center in Eastern BC\, and will now held online\, with 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 will be the Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta\, or discourse on the Four Foundations of Mindfulness\, which has been described as the most profound discourse the Buddha ever gave on mental development. \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. \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Online Retreat Option\nCan’t fly here? Do the retreat where you are.\nIt most likely won’t be possible to retreat at Clear Sky this year. Instead\, join us from wherever you are in the world. \nBasic requirements to do the retreat online: \n\nBlock out the week 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.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Retreat schedule:\n(Time Zone: MST\, subject to change) \n\n[Personal Meditation / Breakfast]\n9:30am  – 11am:  Class with Teachers\n[Personal Meditation / Lunch]\n2pm – 3 pm: Group Practice and Q&A with the Teachers\n[Personal Meditation / Dinner]\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 \nDoug 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 This retreat was right on the mark\, a perfect blend of focused inner work along with space for reflection in a trusting and comfortable setting. The teachers were wonderful\, insightful\, humorous\, and extremely attentive to our individual needs for understanding. This unique experience cultivated a bond within the group and fostered an energy that amplified each lesson. \n Ryan Gies\, USA\n Manager of Software Engineering \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ancient teaching that I feel is important to understand if someone was serious about meditation practice. I appreciate the teachers\, Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat\, unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these rich practices. These practices are life changing\, so it is great that we can have teachers that will explore the rich history with us\, and deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \n Jenai Lieu\, Canada\n Psychology student \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I feel so lucky to have received this precious Dharma-teaching. Your presence\, your compassion and your wisdom is as infinite as its effectiveness. Thank you so much\, to get us out of the mud again and again and again. You are needed in many places on this planet. \n Andrea Netscher\, Germany\n Physical Therapist \n \n \n \n \n \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 pay by the heart\, sliding scale admin fee* of $200-$700. 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 week 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 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\nMay all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings! \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 teachers\, 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 provides you nourishing daily meals and comfortable accomodation. \nPlease go to the retreat registration page for this retreat for details of the all inclusive fee for the two week retreat. \nCovid-19 Protocols\nPlease note\, 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 not travelled outside of Canada in the past 14 days.\nPhysical distancing (2m) amongst all visiting retreatants will be observed during this retreat.\nPlease bring your own face mask(s) that you will feel comfortable wearing. When physical distancing is not possible during this retreat\, you will be asked to wear a mask.\nSanitation and hand washing procedures will be explained when you come and must be followed.\n\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?\nPlease click on the buttons below to register for either retreat option. If you  If you have questions about the retreat\, please phone 250-429-3929\, or contact michelle@clearskycenter.org. \nPlease note that registration closes July 4th 2021. \n  \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n RETREAT AT HOME - Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n RETREAT AT CLEAR SKY* (wait list)\n \n \n \n \n \n *This retreat is currently offered online and in some cases in person.  If Covid-19 restrictions change prior the retreat we may be able to run the retreat in person as well. Please register for the waitlist if you would like to be contacted should this be possible. \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 course went beyond my expectations\, I feel I learned a lot of new things or new ways of seeing things. The teachers have an incredible way of presenting the themes in a way that makes it easy to understand. They also make the teachings fun and suggest exercises so that you can apply them in your life. \n Irene Arriaza\, Guatemala / Spain\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I was expecting to get pearls of wisdom and I always get far far more. The  teachings always speak directly to me. It is uncanny. It is like hearing a language that I spoke in some other life-form and suddenly it rings a bell. And bell after bell. Like a universal language that we all used to speak but have forgotten\, and now as if a new pathway in the brain has opened up and the signals coming in are making sense! Directly from the cosmos via Doug and Catherine Sensei. \n Renata Drtinova\, Czechia / Spain\n Psychotherapist (Gestalt therapist) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The teachers of Planet Dharma [Retreat] aim to provide opportunities to learn from age old teachings while including modern information as they are examples of continuing to learn about the fascinating\, yet troubled world we live in. They help one to develop ideas how to help out society\, live in society and contribute to themselves and others. \n Daniel O'Brien\, USA\n Author\, Japan Series URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/summer-meditation-retreat-breathing-2021/ LOCATION:Clear Sky Meditation & Study Centre\, 3567 Cockell Rd\, Bull River\, British Columbia\, V0B1N0\, Canada CATEGORIES:Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/5-images-Breathing.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:20210627T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210627T160000 DTSTAMP:20260618T062604Z CREATED:20210611T154029Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260618T062604Z UID:10000611-1624806000-1624809600@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Digital Dojo: Spiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers DESCRIPTION:Digital Dojo\n Spiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers\n Training in Dharma is a process of question\, learning and feedback – from your spiritual mentors as well as your community.  Together\, we awaken\, through call and answer and the dialogue of our inquisitive minds. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 the Digital Dojo?\nSpiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers\nThe ‘call and answer’ motif brings beauty to music and bird song. The same goes with the Teacher-Student relationship.  Asking questions to your teachers is a powerful and traditional method of learning in most spiritual traditions. \nIn Zen traditions\, the teacher will also pose questions to the student\, and this is often the case in our tradition.  There is usually no fixed answer to what you seek\, only a better question. \nWhat is the question behind the question? We encourage you to investigate\, ponder\, share what’s on your mind or what is challenging for you.  You might be surprised what you will discover. \nAnd\, through this ‘digital dojo’\, we are also coming together in community. Our shared questions and reflections are a precious opportunity for deepened compassion and wisdom. You may discover that others share the same question as you\, or better yet\, learn the answers to questions you even never thought to ask. This ‘triple gem’ of Buddha\, Dharma and Sangha is a tangible refuge to strengthen your awakening journey. \nNot sure what to expect? You are welcome to attend as an observer and are not required to ask a question. Although participants are encouraged to bring questions\, it is not mandatory.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \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 Session Details\nFees and Dāna\nThese sessions are offered based on the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. \nRegistration\nTo attend\, you must register by the FRIDAY evening prior (9pm MST) to each Digital Dojo on Sunday. These Q&A sessions 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\, please submit your questions by email after registering. The video recording will be available for one week after the live session. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 CoachDearest 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 Artist URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/enlighten-up-2021-06-27-2/ CATEGORIES:Digital Dojo,Public Classes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/digital-dojo-ver.1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210619 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210626 DTSTAMP:20260606T054819Z CREATED:20201008T235024Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260606T054819Z UID:10000434-1624060800-1624665599@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Exploring the Bardo of Now - Meditation Retreat (Online) DESCRIPTION:Exploring the Bardo of Now\n Meditation Retreat (Online) | June 19-25\, 2021\n Bardos relate to both living and dying\, creating and dissolving.  In 2020\, we collectively had the rug pulled out from underneath us by the COVID-19 virus. During this retreat\, we will investigate the bardos and what they can teach us about life and impermanence. \n*Due to the ever-changing travel restrictions\, globally and in Canada\, this course is now offered online.   \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Exploring the Bardo of Now\nDuring this retreat\, we will investigate the bardos and what they can teach us about ordinary life. We’ll draw on Vajrayana Buddhism\, contemporary psychology and modern exploration practices to learn how to make peace with the bardos and live more fully in the present moment.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Infographic: What Happens to Consciousness During the Death Process?\nAdd your information below to receive the infographic. You will also get amazing dharma content from Planet Dharma\, directly to your email inbox. We promise not to spam!\n\n \n URLThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.First Name*Email Address*\n \n Sign-up Location\n Download 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Exploring the Bardo of Now?\n\nJune 19-25\, 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 Why a meditation retreat on the Bardos?\n \n \n \n \n \n Bardos relate to both living and dying\, creating and dissolving.  Bardos can appear at any time\, and may make us feel we have lost all of our stability and reference points. However\, they also offer us an opportunity to explore what is dying and prepare for a new birth. \n Bardo study is relevant to people of all ages\, regardless how old they are or how close to dying they are. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Who is this retreat ideal for?\n \n \n \n \n \n This retreat is ideal for relatively new students who are interested in exploring Buddhist principles that include both Eastern and Western views of death and impermanence. It will appeal to students of the Positive Death movement. Is is also ideal for AIT students who cannot travel to BC as often as they like to\, given the pandemic situation. \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 The Course \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. \n\n \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 \nDoug 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lina Hochstetler\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lama Linda (Linda Hochstetler) has studied both mindfulness meditation and Vajrayana Buddhism for more than 20 years. She trained in mindfulness meditation with Jon Kabat-Zinn in the 90’s\, and studied under Namgyal Rinpoche (the first Canadian-born Rinpoche) from 1995 until his death in 2003. She received permission to teach in the Namgyal lineage in 2014\, and currently studies Vajrayana Buddhism with Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat. Silent meditation retreats are a central part of her study and practice\, and since 1995\, she has completed retreats of between 1 week and 2 months in length every year. \n \n \n \n \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 I attended two retreats led by Doug Sensei. Both were life-changing experiences. During the retreats I was led to confront hidden parts of myself\, unaware that they were affecting me so deeply. Shadow work helped me accept and integrate parts of myself that I had rejected\, and also to acknowledge new strengths and wisdom that were within me all along. After each retreat I left feeling freer and more confident about my spiritual practice. \n Shant Dolbakian\, Toronto\n Video producer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The retreat helped me to access both my strengths and my dark shadow side that interfere with my reaching my fullest potential. Now I am able to better integrate these two parts of myself\, allowing both to unfold\, rather than one suppressing the other. Making both sides more explicit\, more conscious in this retreat\, I lost some fears I didn’t know I had\, and I continue to use the tools today\, a few years later. \n Lisa Feder\, US / France\n Ph.D Cultural Anthropologist and Ethnomusicologist \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ancient teaching that I feel is important to understand if someone was serious about meditation practice. I appreciate the teachers\, Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat\, unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these rich practices. These practices are life changing\, so it is great that we can have teachers that will explore the rich history with us\, and deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \n Jenai Lieu\, Calgary Alberta \n Psychology student \n \n \n \n \n \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 offered based on the unique combination of 1) dāna  and 2) a $200 CAD administrative fee. Click 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 Please register here: \n \n Registration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Also See the Presentation on Buddhist End of Life Contemplative Care (February 6th 2021): Buddhist perspectives on end of life speakers series. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Infographic: What Happens to Consciousness During the Death Process?\nAdd your information below to receive the infographic. You will also get amazing dharma content from Planet Dharma\, directly to your email inbox. We promise not to spam!\n \n CompanyThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.First Name*Email Address*\n \n Sign-up Location\n Download Now \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/bardo-retreat-2021/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Bardos.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Awaken in Toronto":MAILTO:info@awakenintoronto.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210604 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210607 DTSTAMP:20260619T051605Z CREATED:20210408T232929Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260619T051605Z UID:10000445-1622764800-1623023999@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Buddhist Women in the 2020's (Online Course) DESCRIPTION:Buddhist Women in the 2020's\n Stepping into greater awakening potential\n While there may be frustration\, grief and rage about historical gender inequity in Buddhism\, we can use Buddhist methodologies to transform these conflicting emotions into greater compassion and wisdom.  \nJoin Catherine Pawasarat Sensei for this course\, hosted by Menla\, on how we can adapt and shift our traditional perceptions of gender as Buddhist practitioners. \nAll are welcome. \nImage: Thangka of Yeshe Tsogyal\, fully awakened consort of Padmasambhava.  © C. Pawasarat \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 A Menla Online Course \nBuddhist Women in the 2020’s\nStepping into greater awakening potential\n \n \n \n \n \n Gender Perceptions in the Buddhist World in the 2020’s\nAs classic Buddhist teachings emerge in the global mainstream\, it adapts to cultures where women enjoy relative equality with men. In such contexts many practitioners may naturally feel that women and men have the same opportunities to awaken. \nHistorically\, however\, birth in a female body was considered the result of bad karma\, and the lowest and youngest monks enjoyed greater formal status than the most realized nun. Western women and men are unlikely to embrace this part of Buddhist tradition.  \nThis confluence of cultures presents a transition ripe with opportunity. While there may be frustration\, grief and rage about historical gender inequity in Buddhism\, we can use Buddhist methodologies to transform these conflicting emotions into greater compassion and wisdom. \nFurthermore\, we can re-examine how different Mahayana and Theravadin practices—from Tantra to celibacy—can foster healthier sexuality. We can use sex scandals and discrimination as part of our practice\, to cultivate more integrated views and relations among all genders. Along the way\, we co-create what global spiritual awakening looks like in the 20th century. \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei\, a contemporary dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center shares her unique views\, experience\, and practices regarding this contemporary and planetary Triple Gem. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Photo © D. Steinbock \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Course Details\nFees and Dāna\nThis course is offered by Menla\, NY. There are three price tiers:  Sponsor – $150\, Individual – $108 and Reduced – $78. \nRegistration\nTo attend\, please register via the button below. This course and the free talk Buddhist Women in the 2020’s – Introduction (May 27\, 2021) are both hosted by Menla Online. \n \n \n \n \n \n Dates & Times\nLocation: Online at these times: \n\nFriday\, June 4th:\n\n5-6pm MST (7-8pm EST)\n\n\nSaturday June 5th:\n\n9-10:30am MST (11am-12:30 EST)\n2-3:30pm MST (4-5:30pm EST)\n\n\nSunday June 6th:\n\n9-10:30 MST (11am-12:30 EST)\n2-3:30 MST (4-5:30pm EST)\n\n\n\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 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 CommentsThis 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\, you most likely have and we have received your request. If you don’t hear from us within an hour\, please let us know via mailings@planetdharma.com and we’ll make sure you get access. Thank you for your patience. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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/buddhist-women-2020s-menla-course/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Public Classes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/buddhist-women-2020s-500x500-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Menla Online":MAILTO:Frontdesk@Menla.Org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210527T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210527T180000 DTSTAMP:20260620T054230Z CREATED:20210408T212405Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260620T054230Z UID:10000444-1622134800-1622138400@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Buddhist Women in the 2020's (Introduction) DESCRIPTION:Buddhist Women in the 2020's: Introduction\n Stepping into greater awakening potential\n While there may be frustration\, grief and rage about historical gender inequity in Buddhism\, we can use Buddhist methodologies to transform these conflicting emotions into greater compassion and wisdom. \nJoin Catherine Pawasarat Sensei for this talk\, hosted by Menla\, on how we can adapt and shift our traditional perceptions of gender as Buddhist practitioners. \nImage: Thangka of Yeshe Tsogyal\, fully awakened consort of Padmasambhava.  © C. Pawasarat \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 A Menla Online Talk \nBuddhist Women in the 2020’s\nStepping into greater awakening potential\n \n \n \n \n \n Gender Perceptions in the Buddhist World in the 2020’s\nJoin Catherine Pawasarat Sensei for this one hour class\, a prelude to her weekend course Buddhist Women in the 2020’s. \nAs classic Buddhist teachings emerge in the global mainstream\, it adapts to cultures where women enjoy relative equality with men. In such contexts many practitioners may naturally feel that women and men have the same opportunities to awaken. \nHistorically\, however\, birth in a female body was considered the result of bad karma\, and the lowest and youngest monks enjoyed greater formal status than the most realized nun. Western women and men are unlikely to embrace this part of Buddhist tradition.  \nThis confluence of cultures presents a transition ripe with opportunity. While there may be frustration\, grief and rage about historical gender inequity in Buddhism\, we can use Buddhist methodologies to transform these conflicting emotions into greater compassion and wisdom. \nCatherine Pawasarat Sensei\, a contemporary dharma teacher\, attendant\, consort\, co-teacher via Planet Dharma and co-founder of Clear Sky Retreat Center shares her unique views\, experience\, and practices regarding this contemporary and planetary Triple Gem. \nTime: 5-6pm MST / 7-8PM ESTLocation: Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Photo: © D. Steinbock \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Course Details\nFees and Dāna\nThis talk is hosted by Menla Online free of charge. \nWe also invite you to practice generosity\, or Dāna  to Catherine Sensei directly here: Offer Dāna  \nRegistration\nTo attend\, please register via the button below. This free talk and the full course\, Buddhist Women in the 2020’s (June 4-6\, 2021)\, are both hosted by Menla Online. \n  \n \n Register Here\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 X/TwitterThis 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/buddhist-women-2020s-menla-talk/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Public Classes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/buddhist-women-2020s-500x500-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Menla Online":MAILTO:Frontdesk@Menla.Org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210517 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210614 DTSTAMP:20260807T063959Z CREATED:20201119T225511Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260807T063959Z UID:10000437-1621209600-1623628799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Discovering Your Buddha Nature: Teachings of Gampopa (Online Course) DESCRIPTION:Discovering Your Buddha Nature: Teachings of Gampopa\n A Four Week Online Course | Starts May 17\, 2021\n Your essence is Buddha Nature. Discover the path to recognizing this state in yourself and all beings\, as elucidated by Tibetan Buddhist Master Gampopa in his treatise\, ‘The Jewel Ornament of Liberation‘. \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gems of Dharma\nGampopa named this contradiction: we both dwell in an amazing human existence with enlightened essence\, while also wandering through the worlds of struggle and suffering. \nWhat is the path through this paradox\, then? In this course\, we will study realities of samsara and nirvana\, based on Gampopa’s Jewel Ornament of Liberation. \nGampopa was known for bringing together the monastic and yogic traditions\, similar to our lineage and mandate at Clear Sky Center and Planet Dharma. \nIn this course we will also learn that to be more than who we currently are\, we need to understand more than we currently do. How do we understand cause and effect? What is the role of loving kindness and compassion? \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n Top image: Je Gampopa\, Dagpo Rinpoche\, Sonam RinchenSource: Dakini Translations \n \n \n \n \n \n Left image: Je Gampopa with 1st Karmapa\, Dusum Khyenpa. Source: Dakini Translations \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 [Online] course went beyond my expectations\, I feel I learned a lot of new things or new ways of seeing things. The teachers have an incredible way of presenting the themes in a way that makes it easy to understand. They also make the teachings fun and suggest exercises so that you can apply them in your life. \n Irene Arriaza\, Guatemala / Spain\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I was expecting to get pearls of wisdom and I always get far far more. The  teachings always speak directly to me. It is uncanny. It is like hearing a language that I spoke in some other life-form and suddenly it rings a bell. And bell after bell. Like a universal language that we all used to speak but have forgotten\, and now as if a new pathway in the brain has opened up and the signals coming in are making sense! Directly from the cosmos via Doug and Catherine Sensei. \n Renata Drtinova\, Czech / Spain \n Psychotherapist (Gestalt therapist) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The teachers of Planet Dharma [Online course] aim to provide opportunities to learn from age old teachings while including modern information as they are examples of continuing to learn about the fascinating\, yet troubled world we live in. They help one to develop ideas how to help out society\, live in society and contribute to themselves and others. \n Daniel O'Brien\, USA\n Author\, Japan Series \n \n \n \n \n \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\nStarts May 17\, 2021\nPLEASE NOTE to deepen and integrate your experience\, we are offering three optional weekly Master Classes during the course and an at-home Flash Retreat at the end. See below for more details. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MON\, May 17\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Class 1\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n How do we get enlightened? Why wouldn’t we? Gampopa explains different kinds of potential for enlightenment\, and the features of how exactly a precious human existence is the fertile ground for awakening. With this cause and basis for enlightenment\, we look at what a practitioner needs next: a guide. What are the reasons for having a mentor\, and what’s the nature of this relationship? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MON\, May 24\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Class 2\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We review Gampopa’s (and our) perspective on some of the most fundamental aspects of our path: the nature of karma\, the importance of loving kindness and compassion\, and the essential nature of proper refuge. What do these look like in our practice and in our daily lives? We also explore bodhicitta\, the innate potential of a human being to awaken. Sometimes it’s called the desire to awaken: how can we cultivate this? Lastly\, what is the Bodhisattva Vow\, and how do we practice it? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MON\, May 31\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Class 3\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The meditations on the Paramita—Six Perfections or Buddhist Virtues—are easily summarized\, but their practice involves a lifetime of living each one more deeply. We look at Gampopa’s descriptions of each Parami (translated here as generosity\, right conduct\, forbearance\, diligence\, meditation\, and wisdom)\, and describe how we can practice them meaningfully in our contemporary lives. This helps us to both awaken further and benefit all beings more.\n \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MON\, June 7\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Class 4\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Our spiritual paths have different phases: what are they and how do we recognize the road signs? Since we’re practicing the bodhisattva path\, we’ll enrich our experience by getting to know its 10 levels\, and what lies beyond those: Buddhahood. How does a Buddha show up in the universe\, in the different realms? As practitioners we make efforts to benefit all beings; how do Buddhas do it? \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 Study and Meditation Electives\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Master Classes\n \n \n \n \n \n Three Sundays\n \n \n \n \n \n There are weekly Master Classes (akin to online Q&A Office Hours) during this online course to support your deepening learning and practice\, on May 23rd and May 30th at 3pm MST and June 6 at 4pm MST: \n\nSun. May 23 (3pm MST)\nSun. May 30 (3pm MST)\nSun. June 6 (4pm MST)\n\nYou can elect to attend all three or individual dates. \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration & Dana links for Master Classes will be accessible to you when you register for the course. \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\n \n \n \n \n \n June 11-13\, 2021\n \n \n \n \n \n Elect to deepen your practice via a Flash Retreat during the last weekend of this course.  The retreat provides practitioners a valuable opportunity to integrate and seal the learnings from the online course\, in a format well suited for our contemporary lives. \nThe retreat will include instructions\, online check ins\, and a Master Class on Sunday\, June 13. \nWe encourage you to attend this weekend retreat at Clear Sky Centre\, or together with your local sangha\, or if those not available to you\, in your home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration and Dana links for the Flash Retreat will be accessible to you when you register for the course. \nSangha power – consider organizing or joining regional in-person or online sangha groups to support one another during the online courses and Flash Retreats.  \n  \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 \nDoug 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 7:30pm MST. The recording will be available for one week after each class. \nStudy and Meditation Opportunities in addition to the classes include Master Classes on three Sundays at 3pm MST\, and a Flash Retreat on June 11-13\, 2021. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\n This course is offered based on the unique combination of 1) dāna  and 2) a $100 USD administrative fee. Click 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 It has been sheer joy to be a participant in the Foundations of Buddhist Philosophy streamed classes. They made the practice come alive for me and accessible and pertinent to my every-day life. And of course\, I always enjoy Doug and Catherine’s unfailing good humour which put a lighter touch on what can sometimes be a very dry subject. \n Ronda Clanfield\, Canada\n Resources Specialist\, CBC National TV News (retired) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Fabulous mindfulness teachers\, presenting a variety of accessible tools for unfolding\, in a mutual\, community inspired way. It’s great that classes can be watched in person\, virtually\, or within a week depending on one’s schedule. Increase the awareness\, compassion\, wisdom\, strength\, and joy in your life! \n Brendan Ries\, USA / Australia\n Life Coach\, Teacher and Artist \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n[The online classes] are a fantastic tool for me to not get completely lost in Samsara throughout the year\, especially because I don’t live in Canada and cannot be with the teachers so often. I still felt very connected and supported by the Lamas and Sangha. As a result I became much more aware of my state of mind than I would ordinarily.  \n Andrea Netscher\, Germany\n Physiotherapist\, Germany \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 dates to your iCal or Google calendars. If Ical download doesn’t commence as expected\, right click on the button and select ‘save link as’. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n + iCal Export (Online Course)\n \n + iCal Export (Master Classes)\n \n + iCal Export (Flash Retreat)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Google Calendar downloads coming soon. URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/discovering-your-buddha-nature/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Favorit-Design-The-Jewel-Ornament-of-Liberation-e1609126416201.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210516T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210516T160000 DTSTAMP:20260622T053444Z CREATED:20210130T154329Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T053444Z UID:10000440-1621177200-1621180800@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Women & Buddhism: Enlighten-Up DESCRIPTION:Women & Buddhism\n Stories of the 17th Arhat\, female gurus and what it means for us today.\n Enlighten Up is a monthly series of uncompromising\, unflinching and kick-ass dharma classes.  Vajrayana Teachers Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat present a new topic each month.  Join online from anywhere in the world. \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 About this talk on Women & Buddhism\nWhat is the unique experience of female spiritual practitioners – today\, and through history? Discover stories of female gurus like the relatively unknown ’17th Arhat’. This talk will help us understand the often skewed portrayal of the male-female dynamic through time\, and what this has meant for modern Buddhist women. Most importantly\, find out how women can step into greater awakening potential. \nThis month’s talk will be presented by Dharma Teacher Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, live from Clear Sky Meditation Centre in the Canadian BC Rockies. \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 monthly(ish) 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. \nThe topic of the classes will change each month.  They 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 ask questions at the end of the class. \nVideo recordings are available 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 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 \nDoug 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\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. \nThere is also a monthly Digital Dojo session (previously Office Hours) to bring your questions to Doug and Catherine Sensei.   \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 \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/enlighten-up-2021-05-16/ CATEGORIES:Public Classes,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;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210502T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210502T160000 DTSTAMP:20260620T054428Z CREATED:20210130T153941Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260620T054428Z UID:10000439-1619967600-1619971200@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Digital Dojo: Spiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers DESCRIPTION:Digital Dojo\n Spiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers\n Training in Dharma is a process of question\, learning and feedback – from your spiritual mentors as well as your community.  Together\, we awaken\, through call and answer and the dialogue of our inquisitive minds. \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 Why the Digital Dojo?\nSpiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers\nThe ‘call and answer’ motif brings beauty to music and bird song. The same goes with the Teacher-Student relationship.  Asking questions to your teachers is a powerful and traditional method of learning in most spiritual traditions. \nIn Zen traditions\, the teacher will also pose questions to the student\, and this is often the case in our tradition.  There is usually no fixed answer to what you seek\, only a better question. \nWhat is the question behind the question? We encourage you to investigate\, ponder\, share what’s on your mind or what is challenging for you.  You might be surprised what you will discover. \nAnd\, through this ‘digital dojo’\, we are also coming together in community. Our shared questions and reflections are a precious opportunity for deepened compassion and wisdom. You may discover that others share the same question as you\, or better yet\, learn the answers to questions you even never thought to ask. This ‘triple gem’ of Buddha\, Dharma and Sangha is a tangible refuge to strengthen your awakening journey. \nNot sure what to expect? You are welcome to attend as an observer and are not required to ask a question. Although participants are encouraged to bring questions\, it is not mandatory.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \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 Session Details\nFees and Dāna\nThese sessions are offered based on the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. \nRegistration\nTo attend\, you must register by the FRIDAY evening prior (9pm MST) to each Digital Dojo on Sunday. These Q&A sessions 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\, please submit your questions by email after registering. The video recording will be available for one week after the live session. \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 \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 CoachDearest 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 Artist URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/digital-dojo-qa-2021-05-02/ CATEGORIES:Digital Dojo,Office Hours,Public Classes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/digital-dojo-ver.1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210418T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210418T160000 DTSTAMP:20260807T064237Z CREATED:20210130T153126Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260807T064237Z UID:10000608-1618758000-1618761600@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Death and Rebirth: Enlighten-Up! DESCRIPTION:Death & Rebirth (From Womb to Tomb\, to Womb)\n Enlighten-Up! \n \n\n\nLearn about death\, rebirth and the ‘bardos’\, or transitory states between life\, death and every moment – from a Buddhist perspective.\n\n\n\n\n \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 This month’s topic: \nDeath and Rebirth\nDeath and re-birth is continual. Both moment to moment\, and at the end of our physical body’s lifespan.\nHas human beings\, we are hurled from womb to tomb. What happens between death and re-birth\, and\, what happens between one moment to the next? In this talk\, explore the Buddhist philosophy of the ‘bardos’\, the states in between life\, death\, life and from one transitory moment to the next. \nThis month’s talk will be given by Doug Duncan Sensei\, live from Clear Sky Meditation Centre\, in the Canadian Rockies. \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 monthly(ish) 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. \nThe topic of the classes will change each month.  They 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 ask questions at the end of the class\, as well as a group discussion. \nVideo recordings are available 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 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 \nDoug 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\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. \nThere is also a monthly Digital Dojo session (previously Office Hours) to bring your questions to Doug and Catherine Sensei. \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 \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/enlighten-up-2021-04-18/ CATEGORIES:Public Classes,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;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210404T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210404T160000 DTSTAMP:20260808T050633Z CREATED:20210124T215115Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260808T050633Z UID:10000607-1617548400-1617552000@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Digital Dojo: Spiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers DESCRIPTION:Digital Dojo\n Spiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers\n Training in Dharma is a process of question\, learning and feedback – from your spiritual mentors as well as your community.  Together\, we awaken\, through call and answer and the dialogue of our inquisitive minds. \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 Why the Digital Dojo?\nSpiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers\nThe ‘call and answer’ motif brings beauty to music and bird song. The same goes with the Teacher-Student relationship.  Asking questions to your teachers is a powerful and traditional method of learning in most spiritual traditions. \nIn Zen traditions\, the teacher will also pose questions to the student\, and this is often the case in our tradition.  There is usually no fixed answer to what you seek\, only a better question. \nWhat is the question behind the question? We encourage you to investigate\, ponder\, share what’s on your mind or what is challenging for you.  You might be surprised what you will discover. \nAnd\, through this ‘digital dojo’\, we are also coming together in community. Our shared questions and reflections are a precious opportunity for deepened compassion and wisdom. You may discover that others share the same question as you\, or better yet\, learn the answers to questions you even never thought to ask. This ‘triple gem’ of Buddha\, Dharma and Sangha is a tangible refuge to strengthen your awakening journey. \nNot sure what to expect? You are welcome to attend as an observer and are not required to ask a question. Although participants are encouraged to bring questions\, it is not mandatory.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \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 Session Details\nFees and Dāna\nThese sessions are offered based on the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. \nRegistration\nTo attend\, you must register by the FRIDAY evening prior (9pm MST) to each Digital Dojo on Sunday. These Q&A sessions 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\, please submit your questions by email after registering. The video recording will be available for one week after the live session. \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 \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 CoachDearest 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 Artist URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/digital-dojo-qa-2021-04-04/ CATEGORIES:Digital Dojo,Public Classes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/digital-dojo-ver.1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210321T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210321T160000 DTSTAMP:20260808T050441Z CREATED:20201229T012928Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260808T050441Z UID:10000600-1616338800-1616342400@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Enlighten-Up! DESCRIPTION:Enlighten-Up!\n Buddha Nature - How to get clear in a confused world\n Uncompromising\, unflinching and kick-ass dharma classes.  Vajrayana Teachers Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat present a new topic each month.  Join online from anywhere in the world. \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 This month’s topic: \nBuddha Nature: How to get Clear in a Confused World \n\n\n\nWhen the world around you is confused\, chaotic and troubled\, how can you trust everything will be okay? By rediscovering your birthright -Buddha Nature. \n\n\n\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 monthly(ish) 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. \nThe topic of the classes will change each month.  They 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 ask questions and share your reflections in small community circles at the end of the class. \nVideo recordings are available 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 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. \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\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. \nThere is also a monthly Digital Dojo session (previously Office Hours) to bring your questions to Doug and Catherine Sensei.   \n \n Register Here URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/enlighten-up-2021-03-21/ CATEGORIES:Public Classes,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;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210307T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210307T160000 DTSTAMP:20260810T060951Z CREATED:20201231T234802Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260810T060951Z UID:10000605-1615129200-1615132800@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Digital Dojo: Spiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers DESCRIPTION:Digital Dojo\n Spiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers\n Training in Dharma is a process of question\, learning and feedback – from your spiritual mentors as well as your community.  Together\, we awaken\, through call and answer and the dialogue of our inquisitive minds. \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 Why the Digital Dojo?\nSpiritual Questions\, Powerful Answers\nThe ‘call and answer’ motif brings beauty to music and bird song. The same goes with the Teacher-Student relationship.  Asking questions to your teachers is a powerful and traditional method of learning in most spiritual traditions. \nIn Zen traditions\, the teacher will also pose questions to the student\, and this is often the case in our tradition.  There is usually no fixed answer to what you seek\, only a better question. \nWhat is the question behind the question? We encourage you to investigate\, ponder\, share what’s on your mind or what is challenging for you.  You might be surprised what you will discover. \nAnd\, through this ‘digital dojo’\, we are also coming together in community. Our shared questions and reflections are a precious opportunity for deepened compassion and wisdom. You may discover that others share the same question as you\, or better yet\, learn the answers to questions you even never thought to ask. This ‘triple gem’ of Buddha\, Dharma and Sangha is a tangible refuge to strengthen your awakening journey. \nNot sure what to expect? You are welcome to attend as an observer and are not required to ask a question. Although participants are encouraged to bring questions\, it is not mandatory.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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. \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 Session Details\nFees and Dāna\nThese sessions are offered based on the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. \nRegistration\nTo attend\, you must register by the FRIDAY evening prior (9pm MST) to each Digital Dojo on Sunday. These Q&A sessions 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\, please submit your questions by email after registering. The video recording will be available for one week after the live session. \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 \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 CoachDearest 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 Artist URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/digital-dojo-qa/ CATEGORIES:Digital Dojo,Office Hours,Public Classes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/digital-dojo-ver.1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210221T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210221T160000 DTSTAMP:20260810T061348Z CREATED:20201229T013634Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260810T061348Z UID:10000599-1613919600-1613923200@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Enlighten-Up! DESCRIPTION:Enlighten-Up!\n February's Topic: The Antidote to Anxiety\n How the ancient Buddhist practice of merit generation is applicable to your life more than ever. \n  \n  \nUncompromising\, unflinching and kick-ass dharma classes.  Vajrayana Teachers Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat present a new topic each month.  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: \nThe Antidote to Anxiety\n\n\n\nHow the ancient Buddhist practice of merit generation is applicable to your life more than ever.\n\n\n\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 monthly(ish) 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. \nThe topic of the classes will change each month.  They 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 ask questions at the end of the class. \nVideo recordings are available 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 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 \nDoug 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\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. \nThere is also a monthly Digital Dojo session (previously Office Hours) to bring your questions to Doug and Catherine Sensei.   \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 \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/enlighten-up-2021-02-21/ CATEGORIES:Public Classes,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:20210216 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210407 DTSTAMP:20260708T054319Z CREATED:20201229T182428Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260708T054319Z UID:10000603-1613433600-1617753599@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Abhidhamma Deeper Dive Study Group DESCRIPTION:Abhidhamma Deeper Dive Study Group\n with Doug Duncan Sensei| Feb 16-April 6\, 2021\n \n AboutRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 the Abhidhamma\n The Abhidhamma Pitaka is the third division of the Buddhist Tripitaka\, the Three Baskets. The seven books of the Abhidhamma Pitaka give an extraordinarily detailed analysis of the basic natural principles that govern mental and physical processes. \nAs human beings\, our consciousness is built to awaken.  Our awakening is supported by the universe – the Abhidhamma Pitaka gives us an understanding of the mind and body in a profoundly detailed manner. \nThis study group with Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei follows on from the four week online course\, A Study of Consciousness: The Abhidhamma.  The four week course is also a pre-requisite. \nRecommended Reading: A Manual of Abhidhamma (pdf download) by Narada Maha Thera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 [Online] course went beyond my expectations\, I feel I learned a lot of new things or new ways of seeing things. The teachers have an incredible way of presenting the themes in a way that makes it easy to understand. They also make the teachings fun and suggest exercises so that you can apply them in your life. \n Irene Arriaza\, Spain\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I was expecting to get pearls of wisdom and I always get far far more. The  teachings always speak directly to me. It is uncanny. It is like hearing a language that I spoke in some other life-form and suddenly it rings a bell. And bell after bell. Like a universal language that we all used to speak but have forgotten\, and now as if a new pathway in the brain has opened up and the signals coming in are making sense! Directly from the cosmos via Doug and Catherine Sensei. \n Renata Drtinova\, Spain\n Psychotherapist (Gestalt therapist) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The teachers of Planet Dharma [Online course] aim to provide opportunities to learn from age old teachings while including modern information as they are examples of continuing to learn about the fascinating\, yet troubled world we live in. They help one to develop ideas how to help out society\, live in society and contribute to themselves and others. \n Daniel O'Brien\, USA\n Author\, Japan Series \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eight Week Study Group\nFebruary 16 to April 6\n \n \n \n \n \n \nDoug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei are offering an eight week study group after A Study of Consciousness: The Abhidhamma\, for those who would like to go deeper with the Abhidhamma study. It will be held on Tuesdays at 3pm MST\, Feb 16-April 6\, 2021. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Credit: Burmese-Pali Manuscript. Credit: Wellcome Collection. Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Doug and Catherine Sensei\nDharma Teachers Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat teach meditation and act as spiritual mentors to students internationally.  Having lived overseas for many years and traveled extensively\, Doug and Catherine draw on intercultural and trans-cultural experience to broaden the range and depth of their understandings of liberation that they share with others. They are Namgyal lineage holders and founded Clear Sky Meditation Center in the British Columbia Rockies in 2005. \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 Course Details\nTime and Location\nEach of the eight weekly classes in this study group will be held via video stream on Tuesdays at 3pm MST.  Please attend all classes live.  There will also be a recording available for one week after the class. \nPre-requisite:  Completion of the online course – A Study of Consciousness: The Abhidhamma\, (January 11th-February 7) in order to join this study group. \nRecommended Reading: A Manual of Abhidhamma (pdf download) by Narada Maha Thera. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nDoug and Catherine Sensei is offering this course on the basis of dāna\, as well as an admin fee of $100 (USD). The admin is to cover the costs of running these online courses – for equipment and software to provide you the teachings online. \nFor our teachings itself – You may have come across this is 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. Please consider that this dana will be for eight individual sessions. We suggest a range between $200 and $800 for these eight weeks of study. \n \n Study group Registration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Please also register for the four week pre-requisite course (January 11-February 7) to this study group here: \n \n Abhidhamma Online Course\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n It has been sheer joy to be a participant in the Foundations of Buddhist Philosophy streamed classes. They made the practice come alive for me and accessible and pertinent to my every-day life. And of course\, I always enjoy Doug and Catherine’s unfailing good humour which put a lighter touch on what can sometimes be a very dry subject. \n Ronda Clanfield\, Ontario\n Resources Specialist\, CBC National TV News (retired) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Fabulous mindfulness teachers\, presenting a variety of accessible tools for unfolding\, in a mutual\, community inspired way. It’s great that classes can be watched in person\, virtually\, or within a week depending on one’s schedule. Increase the awareness\, compassion\, wisdom\, strength\, and joy in your life! \n Brendan Ries\, USA/Australia\n Life Coach\, Teacher and Artist \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n[The online classes] are a fantastic tool for me to not get completely lost in Samsara throughout the year\, especially because I don’t live in Canada and cannot be with the teachers so often. I still felt very connected and supported by the Lamas and Sangha. As a result I became much more aware of my state of mind than I would ordinarily.  \n Andrea Netscher\, Germany\n Physiotherapist \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 dates to your iCal or Google calendars. If download doesn’t commence\, right click on the button and select ‘save link as’. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n + iCal Export (Study Group)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n + Google Calendar (Study Group) URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/abhidhamma-study-group/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/pexels-scott-webb-1029624.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210206T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210206T160000 DTSTAMP:20260606T054044Z CREATED:20201217T232512Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260606T054044Z UID:10000602-1612620000-1612627200@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Buddhist Contemplative Care for End of Life Speakers Series DESCRIPTION:Buddhist Contemplative Care for End of Life \n Speakers Series Presentation| February 6\, 2021\n \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 Watch the Recording\n \n \n \n \n \n Life\, Death and Rebirth Bardos\n \n \n \n \n \n Hear Doug Qapel Duncan and Catherine Pawsarat Sensei speak on the life\, death and rebirth bardos\, from the point of view of Vajrayana Buddhism. This talk was hosted by Emmanuel College of Victoria University in the University of Toronto\, on February 6th 2021. Link to the livestream available here: Vajrayana Buddhism and the Life\, Death and Rebirth Bardos. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Original Event details: \nJoin Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat for a conversation on Buddhist views of death and dying. Focusing on perspectives unique to their lineage they will share about death related caregiving and to illuminate specific practices (e.g.\, rituals\, key texts\, etc.). Additionally\, they will reflect on how the relatively recent adaptation of Buddhism to Canada and the West has created frictions and creative adaptations to this ancient tradition. \nThis speakers series\, cosponsored by Emmanuel College’s Centre for Religion and Its Contexts\, the Toronto Centre for Applied Buddhism and the Buddhist Education Foundation of Canada\, is a pioneering effort to provide a platform for Canadian teachers from the three main traditions of Buddhism to address contemplative end-of-life care. Over the past fifty years\, Canadians from many walks of life have become interested in Buddhism\, including growing numbers of committed practitioners and students\, as well as those whose curiosity has been piqued about how Buddhist wisdom can be applied to life challenges. \nThis rich spiritual and philosophical system provides unique insight into the perennial questions: What is a “good death?” How can I support myself and my loved ones during this time of profound transition? What approaches to inner work and relationships can we learn that will help bring ease and confidence to end-of-life? \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 Infographic: What Happens to Consciousness During the Death Process?\nWhat happens to consciousness during the death and dying process? Add your information below to receive the infographic. You will also get amazing dharma content from Planet Dharma\, directly to your email inbox. We promise not to spam!\n \n LinkedInThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.First Name*Email Address*\n \n Sign-up Location\n Download 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 \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 I attended two retreats led by Doug Sensei. Both were life-changing experiences. During the retreats I was led to confront hidden parts of myself\, unaware that they were affecting me so deeply. Shadow work helped me accept and integrate parts of myself that I had rejected\, and also to acknowledge new strengths and wisdom that were within me all along. After each retreat I left feeling freer and more confident about my spiritual practice.\n Shant Dolbakian\, Canada\n Video producer \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The retreat helped me to access both my strengths and my dark shadow side that interfere with my reaching my fullest potential. Now I am able to better integrate these two parts of myself\, allowing both to unfold\, rather than one suppressing the other. Making both sides more explicit\, more conscious in this retreat\, I lost some fears I didn’t know I had\, and I continue to use the tools today\, a few years later.\n Lisa Feder\, USA/France\n Anthropologist \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ancient teaching that I feel is important to understand if someone was serious about meditation practice. I appreciate the teachers\, Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat\, unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these rich practices. These practices are life changing\, so it is great that we can have teachers that will explore the rich history with us\, and deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way.\n Jenai Lieu\, Calgary\n Psychology student \n \n \n \n \n \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 Emmanuel College Buddhist Contemplative Care for End of Life Speakers Series\nOver four Saturdays from February to April 2021\, each of the invited speakers will offer a talk\, followed by time for questions\, that addresses common themes. Speakers are encouraged to address general Buddhist views on death and dying\, focusing on their particular schools of thought; to share their spiritual tradition of caregiving and to illuminate specific practices (e.g.\, rituals\, key texts\, etc.). Additionally\, they will reflect on how the relatively recent adaptation of Buddhism to Canada and the West has created frictions and creative adaptations to this ancient tradition. \nWe very much hope you will join us for this exciting series. With time for experiential learning and reflection\, each talk will provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the richness and diversity of Buddhism. This series will be provocative and stimulating whether you are a student\, spiritual care professional or volunteer\, seasoned practitioner or simply curious to learn more about end of life practices. May all beings be well\, happy\, peaceful and safe! \nThis public talk will be held online on Zoom\, and is being offered for FREE\, but requires pre-registration. Zoom details will be provided to all registrants on the day of the talk. \nVisit the Emmanuel College Continuing Education website: Buddhist Contemplative Care for End of Life Speakers Series\n \n \n \n \n \n Please register here via this online registration form: \n \n Registration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Watch Videos on End of Life Related Topics\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Related Events on Living and Dying\nIf the topic of conscious living and dying interests you\, we highly recommend the week-long retreat – Exploring the Bardo of Now\, June 19-25\, 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 Free Infographic: What Happens to Consciousness During the Death Process?\nAdd your information below to receive the infographic. You will also get amazing dharma content from Planet Dharma\, directly to your email inbox. We promise not to spam!\n\n \n NameThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.First Name*Email Address*\n \n Sign-up Location\n Download Now \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/buddhist-end-of-life-contemplative-care/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Public Classes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Bardos.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20210111 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20210208 DTSTAMP:20260708T053816Z CREATED:20200917T225509Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260708T053816Z UID:10000433-1610323200-1612742399@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:A Study of Consciousness: The Abhidhamma (Online Course) DESCRIPTION:A Study of Consciousness: The Abhidhamma\n A Four Week Online Course | Starts January 11\, 2021\n Study one of the most profound ancient ‘sciences’ of consciousness – the Abhidhamma Pitaka. This ‘basket’ of teachings brings detailed analysis to mental and physical phenomena. \n The CourseRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 the Abhidhamma\n The Abhidhamma Pitaka is the third division of the Buddhist Tripitaka\, the Three Baskets. The seven books of the Abhidhamma Pitaka give an extraordinarily detailed analysis of the basic natural principles that govern mental and physical processes. \nAs human beings\, our consciousness is built to awaken.  Our awakening is supported by the universe – the Abhidhamma Pitaka gives us an understanding of the mind and body in a profoundly detailed manner. \nRecommended Reading: A Manual of Abhidhamma (pdf download) by Narada Maha Thera. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 [Online] course went beyond my expectations\, I feel I learned a lot of new things or new ways of seeing things. The teachers have an incredible way of presenting the themes in a way that makes it easy to understand. They also make the teachings fun and suggest exercises so that you can apply them in your life. \n Irene Arriaza\, Spain\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I was expecting to get pearls of wisdom and I always get far far more. The  teachings always speak directly to me. It is uncanny. It is like hearing a language that I spoke in some other life-form and suddenly it rings a bell. And bell after bell. Like a universal language that we all used to speak but have forgotten\, and now as if a new pathway in the brain has opened up and the signals coming in are making sense! Directly from the cosmos via Doug and Catherine Sensei. \n Renata Drtinova\, Spain\n Psychotherapist (Gestalt therapist) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The teachers of Planet Dharma [Online course] aim to provide opportunities to learn from age old teachings while including modern information as they are examples of continuing to learn about the fascinating\, yet troubled world we live in. They help one to develop ideas how to help out society\, live in society and contribute to themselves and others. \n Daniel O'Brien\, USA\n Author\, Japan Series \n \n \n \n \n \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 Outline\nStarts January 11\, 2021\nPLEASE NOTE to deepen and integrate your experience\, we are offering three optional weekly Master Classes during the course and an at-home Flash Retreat at the end. See below for more details. \nDoug Sensei is also offering an eight week Abhidhamma study group after this course for those who would like to go deeper. Tuesdays\, 3pm MST\, Feb 15-April 6. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Credit: Burmese-Pali Manuscript. Credit: Wellcome Collection. Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MON\, January 11\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Class 1\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In this first class\, we will introduce the Abhidhamma – what is it and what can we learn from it? \nThen we will begin to investigate the four different types of consciousness: Sensing\, form blisses\, formlesses blisses\, and transcendent. We will cover a definition of abhidhamma terms and discuss the roots of different types of consciousness. What happens in a thought process? How would we ascertain if they are ethical\, neutral or unethical? \nFinally\, what factors are present in the blisses? Is there only one type of transcendent consciousness\, or is there many? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MON\, January 18\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Class 2\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In class two\, we will observe how in each of the consciousnesses\, there are different factors. What are they? What factors are present in what consciousness? \nHow does feeling relate to consciousness? Do different consciousnesses have different feelings? What are feelings? What are the functions of mind? How do they work? How do the senses connect to consciousness? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MON\, January 25\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Class 3\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Class three covers Karma. We will explore how many kinds of karma exist and where do they operate? How does karma affect rebirth consciousness? What is death? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n MON\, February 1\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Class 4\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n In the final class of the series we will look at the nature of form and transcendence. Using the laws of dependent origination we can study dependent arising\, causal relations and attainments – what are these? \nWhat is Mental Culture – how do you cultivate your mind? \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 Study and Meditation Electives\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Master Classes\n \n \n \n \n \n Three Sundays\n \n \n \n \n \n There are weekly Master Classes (akin to online Q&A Office Hours) during this online course to support your deepening learning and practice\, on the following dates at 3pm MST: \n\nSun. Jan 17\nSun. Jan 24\nSun. Jan 31\n\nYou can elect to attend all three or individual dates. \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration & Dana links for Master Classes will be accessible to you when you register for the course. \n \n \n \n \n \n \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\n \n \n \n \n \n February 5-7\, 2021\n \n \n \n \n \n Elect to deepen your practice via a Flash Retreat during the last weekend of this course.  The retreat provides practitioners a valuable opportunity to integrate and seal the learnings from the online course\, in a format well suited for our contemporary lives. \nThe retreat will include instructions\, online check ins\, and a Master Class on Sunday\, February 7. \nWe encourage you to attend this weekend retreat at Clear Sky Centre\, or together with your local sangha\, or if those not available to you\, in your home. \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration and Dana links for the Flash Retreat will be accessible to you when you register for the course. \nSangha power – consider organizing or joining regional in-person or online sangha groups to support one another during the online courses and Flash Retreats.  \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abhidhamma Study Group\nTuesdays at 3pm MST\, February 16- April 6th \nDoug Sensei is also offering an eight week study group for those who have taken this online course and would like to go deeper with the Abhidhamma study.  Please register for this online course as a pre-requisite.  And visit this page to find out more about study group:  Abhidhamma Study Group. \n  \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 \nDoug 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 7:30pm MST. The recording will be available for one week after each class. \nStudy and Meditation Opportunities in addition to the classes include Master Classes on three Sundays at 3pm MST\, and a Flash Retreat on February 5-7\, 2021. \nRecommended Reading: A Manual of Abhidhamma (pdf download) by Narada Maha Thera. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nWe offer this course on the basis of dāna\, as well as an admin fee of $100 (USD). The admin is to cover the costs of running these online courses – for equipment and software to provide you the teachings online. \nFor our teachings itself – You may have come across this is 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. We suggest a range between $120 and $500 for this four week course. \n \n Register Now\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abhidhamma Study Group\nTuesdays at 3pm MST\, February 16- April 6th \nDoug Sensei is also offering an eight week study group for those who have taken this online course and would like to go deeper with the Abhidhamma study.  Please register for this online course as a pre-requisite.  And visit this page to find out more about study group:  Abhidhamma Study Group.  \n \n Study Group 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 It has been sheer joy to be a participant in the Foundations of Buddhist Philosophy streamed classes. They made the practice come alive for me and accessible and pertinent to my every-day life. And of course\, I always enjoy Doug and Catherine’s unfailing good humour which put a lighter touch on what can sometimes be a very dry subject. \n Ronda Clanfield\, Canada\n Resources Specialist\, CBC National TV News (retired) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Fabulous mindfulness teachers\, presenting a variety of accessible tools for unfolding\, in a mutual\, community inspired way. It’s great that classes can be watched in person\, virtually\, or within a week depending on one’s schedule. Increase the awareness\, compassion\, wisdom\, strength\, and joy in your life! \n Brendan Ries\, Australia\n Life Coach\, Teacher and Artist \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n [The online classes] are a fantastic tool for me to not get completely lost in Samsara throughout the year\, especially because I don’t live in Canada and cannot be with the teachers so often. I still felt very connected and supported by the Lamas and Sangha. As a result I became much more aware of my state of mind than I would ordinarily.  \n Andrea Netscher\, Germany\n Physiotherapist\, Germany \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 dates to your iCal or Google calendars. If download doesn’t commence\, right click on the button and select ‘save link as’. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n + iCal Export (Online Course)\n \n + iCal Export (Master Classes)\n \n + iCal Export (Flash Retreat)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n + Google Calendar (Online Course)\n \n + Google Calendar (Master Classes)\n \n + Google Calendar (Flash Retreat) URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/abhidhamma-online-course-2021/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/pexels-scott-webb-1029624.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210101T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20210101T160000 DTSTAMP:20260826T060041Z CREATED:20201208T193949Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T060041Z UID:10000604-1609513200-1609516800@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:New Year Office Hours 2021 DESCRIPTION:New Year Celebration Office Hours \n Online Q&A with the Teachers & Community\n Welcome in the New Year and 2021 with Dharma Teachers and community. Since we can’t be together this year\, we’ll re-create our annual new year bonfire ritual online. Bring your new year resolution – reflecting on “What do I want to accomplish in 2021?” \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why this New Year Celebration Office Hours?\nWelcome in the New Year 2021 with your Dharma Teachers and community. Since we can’t be together this year\, we’ll re-create our annual new year bonfire ritual online. Bring your new year resolution – reflecting on “What do I want to accomplish in 2021?” \nThe Benefits of Regular Contact\nWhen you’re swept up in the busyness of career\, family and daily pressures\, Office Hours is an anchor to universal teachings and supportive community. Every second Sunday\, you have an opportunity to join our global network for an online Q&A session with Dharma Teachers Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat. \nComing together in question and reflection is a precious opportunity for deepened compassion and wisdom. You may discover that others share the same question as you\, or better yet\, learn the answers to questions you even never thought to ask. This ‘triple gem’ of Buddha\, Dharma and Sangha is a tangible refuge to strengthen your awakening journey. \nNot sure what to expect? You are welcome to attend as an observer and are not required to ask a question. Although participants are encouraged to bring questions\, it is not mandatory. \nVideo recordings are available for those who cannot attend live. \nOffice Hours 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 \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. \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\nFees and Dāna\nThese sessions are offered based on the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. \nRegistration\nTo attend\, you must register by WEDNESDAY December 30th (9pm MST).  \nWe recommend you attend live\, but if you cannot\, please submit your questions by email. The video recording will be available for one week after the live session. \n \n Register Here URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/new-year-office-hours-2021/ CATEGORIES:Office Hours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Office-Hours-Birthday-Edition-DIYD.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20201220T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20201220T160000 DTSTAMP:20260831T053244Z CREATED:20200219T023330Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260831T053244Z UID:10000594-1608476400-1608480000@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Office Hours Online Q&A DESCRIPTION:Office Hours \n Online Q&A with the Teachers \n It’s easy to feel bliss and clarity during retreat\, but how do you maintain it when you’re back home? Better yet\, how can you deepen and strengthen your spiritual practice amidst day-to-day demands? \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Office Hours?\nThe Benefits of Regular Contact\nWhen you’re swept up in the busyness of career\, family and daily pressures\, Office Hours is an anchor to universal teachings and supportive community. Every second Sunday\, you have an opportunity to join our global network for an online Q&A session with Dharma Teachers Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat. \nComing together in question and reflection is a precious opportunity for deepened compassion and wisdom. You may discover that others share the same question as you\, or better yet\, learn the answers to questions you even never thought to ask. This ‘triple gem’ of Buddha\, Dharma and Sangha is a tangible refuge to strengthen your awakening journey. \nNot sure what to expect? You are welcome to attend as an observer and are not required to ask a question. Although participants are encouraged to bring questions\, it is not mandatory. \nVideo recordings are available for those who cannot attend live. \nOffice Hours 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 \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. \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\nFees and Dāna\nThese sessions are offered based on the ancient principle of generosity\, or Dāna. \nRegistration\nTo attend\, you must register by the FRIDAY evening prior (9pm MST) to each Office Hours on Sunday. Office Hours are held every second Sunday with a couple of exceptions when the Teachers are traveling. \nWe recommend you attend live\, but if you cannot\, please submit your questions by email. The video recording will be available for one week after the live session.\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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Share This Event URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/office-hours-online-qa-2020-12-20/ LOCATION:Clear Sky Meditation & Study Centre\, 3567 Cockell Rd\, Bull River\, British Columbia\, V0B1N0\, Canada CATEGORIES:Office Hours ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Office-hours-2018-evtbrt-2.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 END:VCALENDAR