Days
Hours
Mins
Nonduality and the Nature of Mind
July 25 - July 31, 2022
Andrew Holecek
Robert A.F. Thurman
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 [email protected].
ScheduleMonday, July 25th
ABOUT THE TEACHERs
Andrew Holecek
Andrew Holecek has completed the traditional three-year Buddhist meditation retreat and offers seminars internationally on meditation, dream yoga, and the art of dying. He is the author of many books, including Preparing to Die: Practical Advice and Spiritual Wisdom From the Ti...
Robert A.F. Thurman
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...
MENLA
