Days
Hours
Mins
July 25 - July 31, 2022
This unique retreat is an exploration of the nature of mind from the nondual traditions of Tibetan Buddhism and Hindu Saiva Tantra. While based on these noble paths, the program is trans-religious, pointing out timeless truths that transcend any tradition. It is based on the radical proclamation that the enlightened state is always already present, forever right here and now, hiding in plain sight. The path is therefore one of recognition -- and the immediate self-liberation that ensues from that open perception.
Using the tenets of the ancient Kalachakra Tantra, conjoined with modern Deep Ecology and Ecopsychology, we will use outer nature to invoke the recognition of the natural state within. In addition to a progression of practices held indoors, we will do extensive “aimless wandering” in the majestic forests at Menla, inviting the symbolic guru of the phenomenal world to teach us. Using the teachings of the Yogachara, we will examine how pure awareness became obscured, and how “Knowing thy enemy” (the eight consciousnesses) can transform them into friends (the five wisdoms). The archetypal teachings from the Perennial Philosophy on contraction/expansion will be presented, along with practices that reveal their vast applicability in immediate experience.
In the Vajrayana tradition, the body is as important as the mind. They are also fundamentally not-two (nondual). Using subtle inner yogas, we will work with the body to awaken the mind, and dis-cover the intimate relationship between the outer elements of the world, the inner elements of the body, and the innermost elements of the mind – seeing how the former are expressions of the latter. We will also see how all these teachings are profound preparations for death, and deeply connected to the bardos. This is a no-nonsense deep dive into the nature of mind and reality, designed for serious practitioners.
In this retreat we will explore:While open to all, this program is ideal for those who have attended the bardo series with Andrew and Bob. If you have questions about your eligibility, please reach out to Andrew at andrew@andrewholecek.com.
Andrew Holecek is an author, speaker, and humanitarian who offers seminars internationally on meditation, lucid dreaming, and the art of dying. He is the author of many books, including The Power and the Pain: Transforming Spiritual Hardship into Joy, and Preparing to Die: Pr...
Robert Thurman is Professor of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies at Columbia University as well as co-founder and President of Tibet House US and it's Menla Retreat & Spa. A world-wide lecturer on Tibetan Buddhism, activist for the plight of the Tibetan people, translator of Buddhis...
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“It’s such an amazing and spiritual location–I came back feeling rejuvenated and recharged… It was so very special knowing the place belongs to the Dalai Lama! I loved our room. My favorite things were that there was no TV in the room, the beds were so comfortable, and it was so quiet and relaxing there with the windows opened. The grounds were amazing…”
Magda
“Your facilities and location are outstanding for retreats, and the staff are incredibly courteous and helpful. Being in the mountains, wandering along the streams and paths and disconnecting from the business of our daily lives was wonderful. Thank you for creating such a welcoming and warm environment.”
Lori P.
“The Menla Cleanse Getaway was the most peaceful, knowledgeable and supportive environment I have ever experienced for my annual detox. The juices and raw food were creatively prepared and delicious, and the staff was caring and unobtrusive. Being supported by the gorgeous sacred land, a stunning new spa and many wise healers facilitated profound renewal for me on all levels. I am filled with gratitude for Chisti and her team, and I will definitely return!”
Kara S