BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Planet Dharma - ECPv6.18.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Planet Dharma X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.planetdharma.com X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Planet Dharma REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Edmonton BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART: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 BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20230312T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20231105T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20240310T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20241103T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20250309T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20251102T080000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Asia/Tokyo BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0900 TZOFFSETTO:+0900 TZNAME:JST DTSTART:20160101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240712 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240715 DTSTAMP:20260418T072455Z CREATED:20231126T191353Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260418T072455Z UID:10000654-1720742400-1721001599@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Razor's Edge: The Dance of Absolute & Relative Truths DESCRIPTION:Razor's Edge: The Dance of Absolute & Relative Truths\n Online or In-Person | July 12-14\, 2024\n One weekend. One Teacher. Two truths… in one. Step onto the Razor’s Edge: the paradoxical and joyous dance of Absolute and Relative. It’s the only truth there is. \n OverviewRegistration\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Razor’s Edge: The Dance of Absolute & Relative Truths\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  This course for you if: \n\nYou’re wondering how to truly transform suffering and struggle in your life.\nYou’d like to study fundamental Buddhist philosophical understandings of the nature of reality with a wisdom teacher in the Namgyal lineage.\nYou’d like to bridge the gap between meditative realizations and every day challenges. \nYou have a strong curiosity into the nature of reality. \nYou have the burning question inside of you which has led you to this webpage in the first place.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Razor’s Edge is the line between wisdom and ignorance—and it lives inside of you. A paradoxical\, joyous\, and pristinely aware place\, the edge of is finer than any other.This weekend course is a precious opportunity to study with meditation master and Namgyal lineage teacher Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan). He will share fundamental Buddhist teachings on the nature of absolute and relative truths\, and how we can best dance between\, within and amidst the two. This is a priceless chance to learn with one who has danced on the Razor’s Edge for decades\, and dedicated his life to the welfare of all beings by sharing how to do so. \nWhat You’ll Learn: How to Dance the Razor’s Edge!\n\n\nWhat is absolute truth? What is relative truth?\nWhat does the relationship between these truths have to do with you\, and your life?\nHow can you dance with and integrate these two seemingly paradoxical points of view?\nHow might you live and dwell on the “razor’s edge” of this form of wisdom and compassion?\nHow can you do this dance with others? What is your role in bringing this dance into our world?\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher\n \n \n \n \n \n Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) \nQapel studied with the Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche from 1974 until the latter’s passing in 2003. Doug received lay ordination from Namgyal Rinpoche in 1978\, and is a lineage holder in that teaching. He also received teachings from the 16th Karmapa and other Tibetan Rinpoches\, as well as from the Ven. Sayadaw U Thila Wunta and from a Master of the Western Mystery School. In addition\, Doug has undertaken numerous three-month solitary meditation retreats. \nDoug has been leading retreats\, teaching and training in universal practices of spiritual unfoldment since 1985\, helping thousands of students in numerous countries liberate themselves from suffering. His teaching also draws on contemporary psychology and science. In 2004 he co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center in the BC Rockies where he is resident teacher along with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. \nMore About Qapel | About the Lineage \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n On Absolute & Relative Truth\nAttending to tasks while remembering the light:  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What’s Expected of Me?\n\nAn open mind and heart\, and a spirit of adventure are excellent things to bring!\nIt’s human to have some apprehensions about doing something new\, meeting new people\, or going to a new place—particularly when all three happen together. We try to make this as supportive as possible.\nWhen exploring our growth edges\, it’s natural to feel uncertain and awkward. And it’s very fruitful to transform that emotional tension into creative energy by drawing on your own inner resources—such as inquiry\, going with the flow\, and self-reflection\, just a few of the many kinds of constructive engagement.\nTo maximize your retreat experience\, we ask that you refrain from reading\, using the internet\, phone or listening to music during the course.\nStudents are expected to be silent during the silent parts of the retreat\, and participate in all classes\, group meditations\, activities\, and discussions.\nWe ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances before or during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n The Location – Clear Sky Center\n\nLocated in the BC rocky mountains\, Clear Sky offers over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature. Founded by Qapel (Achariya Doug Duncan) and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, the center is home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world.\n\n\nHow to get there\, what to bring and other FAQ about Clear Sky\nOur teachings and Clear Sky operate based on the ancient tradition of dāna or generosity. As generosity is the basis upon which all spiritual practice flourishes\, we recommend that you learn more about this profound practice before you register.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Course Details\nTime and Location\nThe Razor’s Edge weekend will be led by Qapel Doug Duncan at Clear Sky Meditation Center in Eastern BC.  This course is offered online or in-person. \nSchedule / Class Times:  Classes will be 60-90 mins in duration\, with classes in the morning and evening and possibly the afternoon each day (Mountain Time) – the exact schedule to be confirmed. Please ensure you are available for the whole weekend to focus on the course material and attend classes live. \nOnline participants are expected to attend classes live.  We will arrange class times to be comfortable for most time zones. However we understand that some class times might occur after midnight in some regions\, if this is the case for you\, please let us know when you register.  Then we can provide a recording so you can catch up on that particular class. \nWhat Does the Course Cost?\nIn-Person Participants: 1) dāna to the Teacher plus 2) accomodation and meal costs for your stay Clear Sky Meditation Centre. \nOnline Participants: 1) dāna to the Teacher  2) online administration fee of $150 CAD. \nKeen Practitioner Pricing: Book now and get 10% off listed prices. Offer valid until Jun 6\, 2024. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About DānaAbout the Online Admin Fee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. \nThe dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able \nTypically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  \nAs we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  \nConversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. \nLearn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n In a traditional model of in-person teachings\, a retreat center or urban meditation center invites teachers to visit. In these cases the centers have infrastructure and organization costs to cover\, which might be covered by an admin fee. For the teaching itself\, dāna to the teachers is offered in a bowl. This honors both the sustainability of the teachers\, and of the supporting center. \nWe’ve tried to recreate this approach online. The teachers’ time and the teaching themselves are offered on the basis of dāna\, separate to the admin fee. With our dāna offering we are making a direct gift of generosity to the teachers to support their teachings and livelihood. \nThe admin fee* goes to support the infrastructure and organization necessary to support them to teach. As anyone with an online business will know\, it can be surprising the costs of setting up a good infrastructure to support effective teaching and connection online. The admin fee changes based on date of registration. \n*We also do not wish to exclude anyone from the Teachings\, so if you are not currently in a financial position to afford the admin fee\, please contact the course Registrar via registrar@planetdharma.com so we can support you to attend. \n— \nBelow are a few of the work and benefits that your admin fee payment is supporting: \n\nhigh speed internet (to allow interviews and classes on-line)\nonline class systems (Zoom)\nregistration / admin systems (Eventbrite\, Basecamp)\ncommunication systems to keep everyone informed\, share connection details\, teachings and other resources (Mailchimp)\nonline storage (for example\, Dropbox\, to allow us to let students watch recordings\, and to store and share selected teachings in other forms such as podcasts and video later\, and Amazon cloud)\nquality sound\, video and editing equipment (both for live teachings and to provide good enough quality for later sharing as podcasts and video). We are regularly updating our equipment to improve your user experience.\nonline calendar booking system to allow students to book interviews\nwebsite hosting and maintenance for sharing upcoming courses\, teachings\, blogs and other resources.\n\nWe welcome any questions. May all our efforts be sustainable\, abundant and for the benefit of all beings! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We work hard to support the online learning experience.\n \nWe have been delivering online offerings since 2012 and are always looking for new ways to optimize your experience.\nClasses are live-streamed and some recordings are available for a certain time.\nHD cameras and professional audio equipment provide high quality video streaming.\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration\n \n \n Register for in-person retreat\n \n Register for Online \n \n \n \n \n \n Questions?\nIf you have questions about the retreat\, please contact the Clear Sky Retreat Manager at 250-429-3929  (phone) or at bookings@clearskycenter.org (email). \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Why Retreat In-Person?\n Retreating in person at a retreat center is the best way to retreat – why? \n\nYou can’t beat live interaction with the course Teachers. Being in the same space with clear beings ‘tunes’ you to more wholesome states.\nWe create a welcoming environment and follow a supportive retreat schedule\, based on decades of hosting successful retreats worldwide.\nWholesome and delicious food is provided so you don’t have to spend time cooking for yourself.\nBreath-taking and restful\, natural environment puts your body and mind at ease and resets your nervous system.\nRetreating at our center gets you out of your usual home environment and routines – they can be distracting.\nRetreating with others (your co-retreatants) is incredibly supportive and energy building.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n What Do Previous Retreatants Say?\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n These are ancient teachings that I feel are important to understand if someone is serious about meditation. I appreciate Qapel and Sensei’s unrelenting perseverance to teach about the roots and traditions of these life changing practices. They explore the rich history with us and also deliver the material in a very understandable and relevant way. \nJenai LieuPsychology student\, CanadaWorking with Qapel and Sensei at the five day hero’s journey workshop was deeply impactful and has clarified not only my deepest heart’s desire\, but what I need to overcome to manifest it. They are extraordinary facilitators with a great depth of knowledge\, wisdom and presence to share. \nKira MacDuffeeM.Ed / RCCDoing karma yoga\, I watch how everyone gains new insights.  These many “a-ha moments” makes it clear to me that this type of active dharma training is a path that brings the modern spiritual explorer alive and moves them forward. \nDr. Duncan CrylePh.D IBM executive\, Clear Sky Accountability OfficerQapel and Sensei have consistently been honest\, accurate and candid with me. It has sometimes taken me years to admit my self-sabotaging blind spots. Clear and radical self-honesty liberates my sticky parts. Thank you to my master teachers for helping me free up all the energy knots – especially the ones created from unconscious patterning around money\, sex and power. \nEvangelos DiavolitsisMeditation Teacher and Coach\, Four Ways to Freedom. Italy\, Canada.Qapel and Sensei are always burning calories to get you back on a path that can lead toward greater self-awareness. When I am with these two very clear individuals\, I am humbled by their dedication to others\, and understand the every-waking-moment responsibility that comes with their calling. \nPeter UjlakiFine Art Dealer\, Japan URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/absolute-relative-truths/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2024-PD-Courses-Facebook-Covers-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE: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 \n FacebookThis 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 InstagramThis 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:20170321 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170401 DTSTAMP:20260817T054449Z CREATED:20160825T230039Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T054449Z UID:10000357-1490054400-1491004799@www.planetdharma.com SUMMARY:Japan Meditation Retreat on Huayan (Flower Garland Sutra) DESCRIPTION:Meditation Retreat: Huayan – Flower Garland School of Buddhism\nMarch 21-31st 2017\, Zofukuji Temple\, Hyogo\, Japan.\n“If I had a view I could have a flaw\, but emptied of all views\, I am flawless.”  –Nagarjuna \nThrough India\, Tibet\, China and then Japan\, Mahayana Buddhist teachings made their voyage. Along this dharmic journey various sutras and schools came into existence based on the Buddha Shakyamuni’s teachings. \nIn China\, during the Tang Dynasty\, the Huayan or Flower Garland School of Buddhism came into fruition\, which later paved the way for Zen. Known as Kegon in Japan and Hwaeom in Korea\, this teaching is based on the longest sutra in the Buddhist cannon\, the Avatamsaka sutra\, or “Flower Garland” sutra. Said to be Buddha Shakyamuni`s teaching after he became fully enlightened\, the Avatamsaka sutra details the universal Buddhahood of all reality and interconnectedness of all dharmas. \nJoin us in a 10-day retreat with masters Achariya Doug Duncan & Catherine Pawasarat Sensei as we explore this profound sutra at Zofukuji Temple in Hyogo\, Japan\, March 21-31st 2017. \nCourse Outcomes\nWhat will be covered in this meditation retreat?\nThis retreat will explore the deep mysteries of Huayan teachings and the Flower Garland sutra. This 10-day retreat will be filled with many sutra treasures that also apply the number 10. To name a few\, there are books on the ten bodies of the Buddha\, the ten stages of a bodhisattva\, the ten acceptances\, the ten concentrations\, the ten practices\, the ten abodes\, the ten treasures\, the ten dedications and to add many other teachings like\, the four dharmadhatu\, Sudhana`s quest\,  holographic metaphors like Indra`s net\, the hall of mirrors and the golden lion there is no need to wonder why this sutra is also called “the king of sutras.” There are infinite possibilities of exploration and learning with this sutra! \nWhat will this meditation retreat learning do for me?\nImage: © Brendan Ries \nIn the Flower Garland Sutra\, book 39\, “Entry into the Realm of Reality” it tells the story of Sudhana and his search for truth. Sudhana shows a parallel among all spiritual seekers\, it is a hero’s journey and in essence\, it must be done alone. Along the way he learns from fifty-three teachers from all walks of life\, including Manjushri\, that help guide him during his journey toward spiritual awakening.  During the retreat the teachers will help us navigate and understand these teachings so that we can apply them to our own spiritual path and spiritual learning. \nOne main aspect of these teachings is that the search for enlightenment in itself is an indication that enlightenment is already actively present within us.  If we come to understand this more fully\, we can start to embrace the reality that everything we come into contact with or experience in life is an opportunity for learning and growth\, an opportunity to become a happier\, more joyful\, bright\, caring and aware being.  In this retreat we will be guided by the teachers\, and given teachings and practices to develop this mindfulness and awareness to greater personal depths. \nSo what difference does being more aware make?\nAs humans we live in four worlds. We live in an environmental matrix of earth\, water\, air and fire\, upon which all life depends. We live in a social world of interdependence that requires clear communication and compassionate engagement for a balanced and harmonious life\, including our interactions with many other species. We live in an economic world that allocates resources and assigns values. Lastly\, we live in an unseen and unnamed spiritual world. \nTo claim our birthright as human beings\, we need to be skilled in all four worlds\, particularly the last one. This last world of spiritual awakening raises our eyes from the merely mundane\, so we can perceive mysterious and sublime phenomena and qualities. These nourish our souls\, inspire us to gracefully navigate the challenges of the other three worlds\, and generally make life worth living. \nHow will this meditation retreat help my life? \nIn Huayan practice\, the tranquility meditation is used to enable us to deepen our awareness and understanding of the true nature of reality\, which helps us develop inner calm and confidence.  The teachings given offer us a map and a system for greater awareness\, spiritual awakening and unfolding.  This more all-embracing and widely-encompassing awareness can then be applied and integrated into our lives in the world. The integration allows us to take what we learn on the meditation cushion in the retreat back into our day-to-day lives. This enhances and embellishes our sense of accomplishment and confidence in all that we do: our relationships\, our work and how we offer our gifts to the world. Supported by this powerful inner work\, we’re empowered to make a difference in the world during these critical transitional times. More and more we become positive role models of transformation who can wield the tools that support others to join us. \n  \n\nAbout Teachers Doug Duncan & Catherine Pawasarat:\nCombined\, Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat have been practicing Karma Yoga and meditation for more than 60 years. They both received lay ordination from the Canadian-born Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche\, and have shared teachings of spiritual awakening from their Western Canada-based retreat center\, Clear Sky\, and worldwide for decades. \nThey’re well versed in Theravadin\, Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhist philosophy and practices\, as well as contemporary psychology\, consciousness studies and art. They are pioneering awakening through action (Karma Yoga) and generosity practices in the West\, and feel proud to base their teachings and meditation retreat center on these radical and profound practices.  They lead several meditation retreats per year. \nDoug & Catherine’s teaching style emphasizes integration\, of right-brain and left brain\, art and science\, East and West\, and the broad spectrum of human experience. They are devoted to integrating the shadow and keeping a keen sense of humor. \n\n\n\n\nThe first time I met Catherine and Sensei at Clear Sky Centre for a one week silent meditation retreat\, at the end I burst into tears. I found home. Dharma Trips around the world with those two cutting edge masters have also allowed me to see the world from a whole new prespective.\nMaya Lewandowsky\nDirector / LaCaravan Dance Theatre\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\nDāna (Generosity Based Teaching)\nDoug & Catherine are teaching this retreat via the ancient tradition of Dāna (generosity)\, an offering from them to the attendees. It is considered of supreme value to your life and thus “beyond price” so it is expected that the student will be equally generous and support the teaching and the teachers by making an offering. \nWhile no offering is too small\, also no offering is too great. The giver benefits by offering as much as they can\, given the individual’s circumstances. Along with compassion\, generosity is considered the root of spiritual progress and\, according to the ancients\, therefore the root of our success in daily life as well. \nFind out more about how you can practice Dāna. We invite you to offer Dāna when you register and via the Dāna bowl available at the retreat. \n \n\nWhat else do you need to know?\n\nMeditation Retreat Centre Fees (Lodging & Meals)\n\nThis retreat will be held at Zofukuji Temple\, Hyogo\, Japan. The following retreat fee includes lodging and meals.  Please note that Dana for the retreat is extra.  Retreat Cost: 100 000 JPY \n\nMeditation Retreat Dates\, Arrival & Departure\n\nThis retreat runs from March 21st- 31st\, 2017. \nParticipants must arrive on March 21st by 10 am.  The retreat will finish on March 31st at 3 pm. \n\nRegistration\n\nThere are limited spaces available\, so please register at your earliest convenience.  If there are still spaces available\, final registration will close March 4th. Contact:  Nicole Porter: nicoleporter3@gmail.com. \n\n\nWhat does a typical meditation retreat day look like?\n\nTentative Schedule (Subject to Change) \n\n6:30 am: Wake up\n6:45 -7:15: Meditation – setting the tone for the day\n7:15 – 8:15: Breakfast\n8:15 – 9:30: Dharma talk and description of the exercises to be done\n9:30 -11:30 Group Lead Meditation practice\n11:30 – 12:15 Meditation practice\n12:30-1:30: Lunch\n1:30 – 2:30: Integration (individual time)\n2:30 – 4:30: Meditation practice\n4:30 – 6:00 Optional Moving Meditation Practice or personal meditation practice\n6:00 – 7:15: Dinner\n7:15 – 8:30: Dharma Talk and Group Practice\n8:30 – 9:00: Meditation Practice\n9:30 – 10:00: Meditation to raise a question based on the day’s events\n\nSign up to the PlanetDharma email list to stay informed. \nAnd see more at our Facebook event \nImage: © Brendan Ries URL:https://www.planetdharma.com/event/japan-meditation-retreat-huayan-flower-garland/ LOCATION:Zofukuji Temple\, Miki City\, Hyogo\, Japan CATEGORIES:Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.planetdharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/BuddhaKoyasanSymbol-ries.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Nicole Porter":MAILTO:nicoleporter3@gmail.com END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR