Noel Coakley

Noel Coakley has over 30 years of experience as a dharma teacher and practitioner, primarily as a student of Yungdrung Bön and Tibetan Buddhist and lineages.For the past 14 years, he has worked as a licensed psychotherapist, specializing in integrating contemplative practice with Western psychology.Noel’s work focuses on making authentic Buddhist practices accessible without diluting their depth, creating a welcoming entry point for those who feel called to practice but unsure where to begin beyond mindfulness.His teaching style blends:

Traditional Buddhist and Yungdrung Bön perspectives

Trauma-informed Western psychology

Direct, experiential meditation instruction

Plainspoken, relational language

The emphasis is on familiarization rather than achievement—helping participants recognize and trust innate capacities for awareness, compassion, and wisdom rather than striving toward an idealized state.Noel is the author of “Wake Up Sleepy Buddha: Foundations of the Buddhist Path for Ordinary Weirdos and Hidden Buddhas”Read Noel’s Full Bio Here - www.wakeupsleepybuddha.com/about

Upcoming Programs by Noel Coakley

Wake Up Sleepy Buddha: The Buddhist Path in Practice

Feb 04 - Feb 07, 2027

This retreat introduces core Buddhist practices beyond mindfulness in a way that is accessible, experiential, and rooted in traditional wisdom. It is welcome to both newer meditators and those with an established practiced who are looking for a clear orientation or refresher. The retreat offers a grounded, experiential introduction to the broader Buddhist path, emphasizing […]

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845-688-6897

“Going to Menla is like dropping out of time. The physical beauty and stillness of the place is unique. The accommodations are just right – comfortable but not ostentatious. The food is amazing and clearly made with attention and love. Thank you!”

Sylvia E.

“The genius is in the details of this place. Simple . elegant and chic. The food is always creative, delicious and healthy. The staff is right on. There is nothing they won’t do to make you comfortable. And then there’s the Spa. It’s the big embrace when you walk through the door. The whole place is a huge container of LOVE.”

Elaine Mackle

“It’s not clear on your site HOW AMAZING the nature is!! I was blown away at the beauty and would have preferred an OUTDOOR retreat because of how epic the woods and creek were.”

Jillian F.

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