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DTSTART:20230101T000000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20251216T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20251221T130000
DTSTAMP:20260502T120912
CREATED:20251026T155643Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251026T155643Z
UID:4447-1765908000-1766322000@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Listening to Our Hearts
DESCRIPTION:Join Alan Muller and Anton Krueger for a transformative retreat focused on the deep connection between mindfulness and compassion. Drawing from a rich array of dharma teachings\, Alan will explore the essential Buddhist practice of compassion—how it arises from mindful awareness of suffering and fuels our wish to alleviate it. \nAlan’s talks will be woven together with a selection of inspiring stories\, reflecting the wisdom of Aleks Krotoski: “Stories are memory aids\, instruction manuals\, and moral compasses.” Through these narratives\, we’ll deepen our understanding and cultivate compassion in our daily lives. \nIn addition\, Anton Krueger (Mindfulness Africa) will guide a series of meditations and reflections\, creating space for insight and embodied practice throughout the retreat. \nAbout Alan Muller\n\nAlan Muller took refuge in 1997 with Akong Rinpoche. In 2003\, he completed a one-year closed retreat under the guidance of Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at Samye Ling Monastery in Scotland. During this period\, he took novice monk vows. Alan remained a novice monk for six years and now presents courses and retreats as a layperson. \n\n\n\nAbout Anton Krueger\nAnton helps to run a Kagyu Buddhist centre in Makhanda (previously Grahamstown). His passion is facilitating creativity\, improvisation and mindfulness workshops. He’s a member of Mindfulness Africa and has presented papers on Mindfulness and Creativity in China\, the USA\, India\, Sweden\, Scotland and Italy. He’s also a creative writer and Head of the Department of Literary Studies in English at Rhodes University. \n  \nCost\nYou are welcome to attend the entire retreat or any part of it. The cost per person includes accommodation of your choice and wholesome meals\, from supper on the day of arrival to lunch on the day of departure. A  facilitation fee is included\, while staff gratuities and dana are optional extras. There is a 5% discount for staying the full 5 days\, which is already included in these costs: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Accommodation Type:\n  2 Nights\n  5 Nights\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n R1\,400\n  R2\,600\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R1\,600\n  R3\,100\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (sharing\, per person)\n  R1\,800\n  R3\,600\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (sharing\, per person)\n  R2\,000\n  R4\,000\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom\n  R2\,200\n  R4\,500\n\n\n  Single ensuite room\n  R2\,400\n  R5\,000\n\n\n\nIf you’d like to stay for a shorter or longer time\, please feel free to contact us at retreat@tararokpacentre.co.za for the cost — we’ll be happy to help you find the option that suits you best. \nTo Book:\nPlease book by clicking on this online booking form – please indicate your preferred arrival and departure dates under “Other Info”. \nA 50% deposit will confirm your booking – here are the payment details. \n 
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/listening-to-our-hearts/
LOCATION:North West Province
CATEGORIES:Buddhism,compassion,Contemplation,Meditation,Mindfulness,Relaxing,Spirituality
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251111
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251205
DTSTAMP:20260502T120912
CREATED:20250511T170509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250910T113715Z
UID:4338-1762819200-1764892799@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Returning Home - Meditation Retreat with Dónal Creedon
DESCRIPTION:‘We shall not cease from exploration \nAnd the end of all our exploring \nWill be to arrive where we started \nAnd know the place for the first time.’ \nT.S. Elliot ‘Little Gidding’ \nThe journey home is a theme that runs through many traditions\, legends and stories. The home can be an actual place\, our native Ithaca. In the Buddhadharma\, home is the space of things (dharmadatu). Inwardly it is the vajra seat\, the heart\, the ‘still point of the turning world’. A place where struggle\, speed\, all wanting comes to rest. Meditation is both road and destination. Thus all our paths are a returning to ‘that which was the beginning’. \nCome to TRC\, far from the madding crowd\, a heavens-haven of retreat and blessed nature. Leave behind the haste and tyranny of merciless acceleration. We will rely on the teachings of the siddhas as our principle guide. As always meditation\, discourse and dialogue will be central to our retreat. \nRetreat Participation Guidelines\nThis Buddhist meditation retreat is particularly suitable for those with some prior knowledge and experience of meditation. However\, everyone is welcome\, provided they are willing to fully engage with the spirit and structure of the retreat. \nWe ask that each participant come with a sincere commitment to the programme\, and a willingness to set aside personal demands and agendas for the duration of the retreat. This commitment is essential for maintaining the supportive and focused environment necessary for deep practice. \nParticipation is based on ethical conduct grounded in the Buddhist precepts\, and on mutual consideration and respect for others. If you feel unable to meet these conditions\, we kindly request that you reconsider attending. \nThank you for your understanding and care in supporting a harmonious retreat space. \nRetreat Attendance Options\nIdeally\, participants are encouraged to attend the full retreat to gain the greatest benefit. However\, partial attendance is also welcome\, with a minimum stay of one week\, and 5 days for the first week. \nFor those attending part of the retreat\, entry is possible on the following dates: \n\n\nTuesday 11 November \n\n\nSunday 16 November \n\n\nSunday 23 November \n\n\nWe appreciate your understanding\, as set entry dates help maintain the integrity and flow of the retreat for everyone involved. \nAbout Dónal Creedon\nDónal Creedon is a highly respected Buddhist meditation teacher\, deeply appreciated for his warmth\, openness\, and sincerity. He brings many years of experience to his teaching\, grounded in deep personal practice and study. He trained extensively with masters of the Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism in Europe\, India\, and Nepal\, including long periods of intensive retreat.  Dónal’s teaching is rooted in this tradition\, while also being informed by his time at the Krishnamurti Centre in Varanasi\, where he served as the resident Buddhist scholar. Dónal’s approach integrates Buddhist meditative training with the radical spirit of inquiry inspired by J. Krishnamurti\, offering a path that is both contemplative and deeply questioning. \nRetreat Cost\nThe retreat fee includes Accommodation\, Ova-lacto vegetarian meals from supper on the first night to lunch on the final day\, a supplement for the teacher’s airfare\, and an optional R60 environmental levy \nDiscounts (already applied to listed fees): \n\n5% off for stays of 7 days\n10% off for stays of 2 weeks\n15% off for the full 23-night retreat\n\nTRC members receive an additional 10% discount if membership has been paid up for at least 6 months before the retreat. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  1st Week      (5 nights)\n  7 Nights\n  11 Nights\n  14 Nights\n  23 Nights     (full retreat)\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R3\,800\n  R4\,500\n  R6\,200\n  R7\,000\n  R10\,100\n\n\n  Camping TRC Tent/Cabin\n  R4\,300\n  R5\,100\n  R7\,200\n  R8\,300\n  R12\,000\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R4\,300\n  R5\,100\n  R7\,200\n  R8\,300\n  R12\,000\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per   person):\n  R4\,800\n  R5\,800\n  R8\,300\n  R9\,600\n  R14\,000\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person):\n  R5\,300\n  R6\,500\n  R9\,300\n  R10\,900\n  R16\,000\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom:\n  R5\,800\n  R7\,100\n  R10\,400\n  R12\,100\n  R18\,000\n\n\n  Single ensuite room\n  R6\,300\n  R7\,800\n  R11\,400\n  R13\,400\n  R19\,900\n\n\n\nPlease note: \n\n\nThe cost does not include Dana (a traditional offering of appreciation to the teacher) \n\n\nStaff tips are also not included \n\n\nFor the costs of additional days and other accommodation options off the main site\, please contact the office at retreat@tararokpacentre.co.za. \n\nFor volunteer/work exchange options\, please contact the office at retreat@tararokpacentre.co.za.\n\nTransport to/from TRC & Airport Shuttle Details\nShuttle Service (OR Tambo to TRC): \n\nAvailable Tuesday\, 11 November and change-over days\, if there are enough participants.\nReturn shuttle from TRC to OR Tambo: Thursday\, 4 December.\nCost: ~R1400 per person (round trip). Not included in retreat fees.\n\nAlternative: InterCape Bus: \n\nFrom OR Tambo airport to Groot Marico: Departs at 11 AM (~R350).\nTRC pickup/drop-off from/to Groot Marico: R175.\nReturn bus departs Groot Marico at 9 AM.\nWhen booking\, select OR Tambo (not Johannesburg) as your stop.\n\nFlight Timing Guidelines: \n\nArrival (to use shuttle or bus) by 10 AM latest (or 8 AM if using InterCape).\nDeparture: Shuttle arrives at OR Tambo by 5:30 PM on 14 December.\nBook domestic flights after 7 PM\, and international flights after 8 PM.\n\nCarpooling: \nTRC will assist in arranging carpooling where possible. \nTo Book\nPlease use our online booking form\, which can be completed easily on a phone or tablet. \nA 50% deposit will secure your choice of accommodation. You are also welcome to discuss a payment plan with us. \nPeople who stay for longer periods will be preferentially allocated their choice of accommodation.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/meditation-retreat-with-donal-creedon-2025/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Contemplation,Dharma,Inquiry,Insight,Meditation,Mindfulness,Tibetan Buddhism
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/walking-through-forest.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250919T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250921T160000
DTSTAMP:20260502T120912
CREATED:20250714T114200Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T114629Z
UID:4363-1758304800-1758470400@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Cultivating Equanimity and Gratitude with Vera Hey
DESCRIPTION:Cultivating Equanimity and Gratitude in a Reactive World. \n“Between the stimulus and the response there is space\, and in that space is your power and freedom\, that space is the hope of humanity!” Viktor Frankl \nWhat is Equanimity? It is a non-reactive\, mindful presence; it is inner balance and ease. It is our inner refuge. When we are able to come to equanimity\, then all other qualities that we cherish like joy\, love\, intelligence\, clarity\, etc\, arise naturally! \nSo\, what keeps us on the spinning wheel of obsessive thinking and running through our day? There is no life there\, no intimacy\, no wonder! \nLet’s explore together how to get off that wheel and step into the states of equanimity and gratitude\, which\, according to neuroscientists\, are states that bring us the experience of contentment\, inner peace and harmony. \nThis retreat will utilise techniques from the mindfulness toolbox\, including relaxation\, meditation\, reflection\, gentle yoga\, and nature walks. \nYour Facilitator:\nVera Hey is a mindfulness practitioner and an experienced mindfulness facilitator. She applies the insight and awareness gained from her mindfulness practice to both her personal life and her career as a psychological counsellor. She is a student of Rob Nairn\, an international Mindfulness and Meditation teacher\, and has completed his facilitator training course. \n  \nCost:\nThe cost includes the accommodation of your choice\, all vegetarian meals from Friday lunchtime to Sunday lunch\, a facilitator fee\, and a voluntary environmental levy of R60. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Accommodation Type\n  Cost per person\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R1\,500\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R1\,700\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per person):\n  R1\,900\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person):\n  R2\,100\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom:\n  R2\,300\n\n\n  Single-use ensuite room:\n  R2\,500\n\n\n\n  \nTo book:\nPlease book using this online form. \nA 50% deposit will confirm the accommodation of your choice.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/cultivating-equanimity-and-gratitude-with-vera-hey/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:communication,compassion,Contemplation,Embodied meditation,Inquiry,Insight,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Relaxing,Spirituality,Walking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/istockphoto-486898882-612x612-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250807T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250810T110000
DTSTAMP:20260502T120912
CREATED:20250512T163544Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250512T163619Z
UID:4347-1754589600-1754823600@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Training the Heart\, Training the Mind
DESCRIPTION:Join Us for a 3-Night Retreat in the Heart of the Bushveld during this full moon weekend. \nReconnect with your innate wisdom and compassion during this 3-night Buddhist retreat at the serene Tara Rokpa Retreat Centre\, nestled in the tranquil Bushveld region of South Africa. Guided by Lama Zangpo\, this retreat will offer a deep dive into the heart practice of Chenrezik—the embodiment of compassion in Tibetan Buddhism—and explore the transformative teachings of Lojong (Mind Training)\, a practical approach to cultivating resilience\, kindness\, and wisdom in daily life. \nThrough Dharma talks\, meditation\, reflections\, and group practice\, you’ll develop tools to soften the heart\, open the mind\, and meet life’s challenges with greater equanimity and compassion. Whether you are new to Buddhist practice or looking to deepen your path\, this retreat provides a supportive and nurturing environment for inner growth and connection. \nAdditional highlights include fresh air nature walks\, time for rest and reflection\, birdwatching\, moongazing under the clear Bushveld sky\, and nourishing vegetarian meals to support deep relaxation and renewal. \nAll are welcome. No prior experience is required. \nTeacher\n\nLama Zangpo’s meditation journey began in 1996 when he met Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg and became a resident volunteer. His spiritual path took him from the Holy Isle to Arran\, and later to Nepal\, where he pursued intensive study and practice under the guidance of Drupon Rinpoche at the Thrangu Sekhar retreat. He has also supported communities in South Africa\, the Congo\, and most recently in Glasgow\, where he now resides\, helping to nurture and grow the local Buddhist community. Lama Zangpo is known for his compassionate approach and understanding of Buddhist meditation\, making this weekend accessible for both beginners and those with more experience.\n\nCost\n\nRetreat costs include accommodation\, meals\, a voluntary environmental levy of R60\, and a contribution toward teacher travel expenses.Please note that the cost does not include dana (a traditional offering to the teacher) or staff gratuities. \nWe warmly encourage participation regardless of financial circumstances—no one should feel excluded due to cost.For additional discounts or work exchange options\, please contact us at retreat@tararokpacentre.co.za. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Accommodation type\n  Cost\n\n\n  Camping (own tent):\n  R1\,900\n\n\n  Dormitory:\n  R2\,200\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R2\,500\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R2\,800\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom:\n  R3\,100\n\n\n  Single ensuite room\n  R3\,400\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTo Book\nPlease fill in the online booking form.\n\nA 50% deposit will confirm your choice of accommodation.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/training-the-heart-training-the-mind/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Buddhism,compassion,Contemplation,Dharma,Meditation,Tibetan Buddhism
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IMG-20221215-WA0018.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250425T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250428T133000
DTSTAMP:20260502T120912
CREATED:20250210T155554Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250210T155554Z
UID:4325-1745604000-1745847000@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:The Twelve Links
DESCRIPTION:“We all want to find happiness and be free from suffering. The twelve-part process of dependent arising shows how actions underlain by ignorance propel us from one rebirth into another\, keeping us trapped in suffering\, and how through understanding reality correctly we can break this cycle.” Geshe Sonam Rinchen \n  \nJoin us for a transformative Buddhist retreat focused on the Twelve Links of Dependent Origination\, a profound teaching that reveals the interdependent nature of existence. The Twelve Links outline the cycle of suffering (samsara) and how our actions\, thoughts\, and experiences are interconnected\, perpetuating our grasping and suffering. From ignorance to birth and aging\, each link shows how one leads to the next\, trapping us in the cycle of existence. Through meditation\, teachings\, and reflection\, we’ll explore how understanding these links can break the cycle\, leading to wisdom\, liberation\, and lasting peace. \n  \nFacilitator:\nThe retreat will be led by Alan Muller who took refuge in 1997 with Akong Rinpoche. In 2003\, he completed a one-year closed retreat under the guidance of Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at Samye Ling Monastery in Scotland. During this period\, he took novice monk’s vows. Alan remained a novice monk for six years and now presents courses and retreats as a layperson. He has formed Ngondro groups since 2004 around Southern Africa. \n  \nCost:\nThe costs of this retreat cover three nights’ accommodation\, all meals from Friday supper to lunch on Monday (a public holiday). Dana for the facilitator is excluded from these costs. An amount of R200 to R500 a day for dana is suggested\, and if you would like to tip the staff\, that would be warmly welcomed. \nPlease do not let a lack of finances prevent you from attending. Please contact us for concessions/work exchange. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Accommodation\n  3 Nights\n\n\n  Camping (own tent):\n  R1\,400\n\n\n  Dormitory:\n  R1\,700\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R2\,000\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R2\,300\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom:\n  R2\,600\n\n\n  Single ensuite room:\n  R2\,900\n\n\n\n  \nTo book:\nPlease click here to book. A 50% deposit will confirm your booking.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/the-twelve-links/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Contemplation,Dharma,Inquiry,Insight,Meditation,Tibetan Buddhism
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Wheel-of-Life-3-Poisons.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250306T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250309T140000
DTSTAMP:20260502T120912
CREATED:20250101T204958Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250101T205947Z
UID:4299-1741284000-1741528800@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Taming the Wild Monkey Mind with Lama Zangmo
DESCRIPTION:An untamed mind is compared to a wild elephant being led by a crazy\, wild monkey of distraction. The untamed mind can do a lot of damage\, as we can easily observe in daily life. \nSo\, how do we go about taming our wild\, monkey minds? \nLama Zangmo will talk about the benefits and the common difficulties encountered in meditation\,\nand how to deal with them.  Sometimes being reminded of small things can make a big difference and help us to see the bigger picture and put things into perspective. For that reason it is helpful to be reminded and to gain more understanding of how to train the mind. \nDuring this retreat\, Lama Zangmo will also give instructions on the key aspects of the inspiring Dorje Chang Prayer\, which is chanted regularly in all the Kagyu centres. \nThe text shows us how to apply ourselves on the spiritual path using the analogy of our body\, pointing out that renunciation is the feet of meditation\, devotion is the head of meditation and non-distraction is the body of meditation. \nThere will be guided meditation practice and time for questions. \nLama Zangmo\n\nLama Gelongma Zangmo  is the resident Lama at Kagyu Samye Dzong London. She became a practising Buddhist when she arrived at Kagyu Samye Ling in 1977 and took refuge with His Holiness the 16th Karmapa\, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje. Having received teachings from many highly respected lamas who visited Kagyu Samye Ling\, she was inspired to enter the four-year closed retreat in 1984\, during which time she became ordained as a Buddhist nun. Lama Zangmo completed 2 more long retreats\, during which she was asked to help and advise the new retreatants. bringing the total number of years Lama Zangmo spent in retreat to eleven and a half. \n​Choje Akong Tulku Rinpoche and Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche then asked Lama Zangmo to put her experience to good use by helping to run Kagyu Samye Dzong London\, which was officially opened in 1998. Since then the London Centre has flourished under Lama Zangmo’s guidance and established itself as a much needed Dharma Centre in the capital city\, providing a full and varied programme of teachings and events throughout the year. \nIn recognition of her long experience\, selfless qualities and commitment\, she became the first person in the UK to be honoured with the title of Lama by our Founder Choje Akong Tulku Rinpoche\, at a heart warming ceremony in Kagyu Samye Dzong London in June 2001. \n\nRetreat Cost:\nThe cost of the retreat includes accommodation and all meals from supper on the first evening until lunch on Sunday. It includes a voluntary environmental levy of R60\, and a contribution for teacher transport. The retreat excludes dana for the teacher. \nPlease contact us for discounted rates – don’t let a lack of finances prevent you from attending this retreat. \nDana for the teacher would be appreciated. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Accommodation\, 3 nights\n\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R1\,900\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R2\,200\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R2\,500\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R2\,800\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom\n  R3\,100\n\n\n  Single ensuite room\n  R3\,400\n\n\n\n  \nTo book:\n\nPlease click here to book.  \nA 50% deposit will confirm your booking.​
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/taming-the-wild-monkey-mind-with-lama-zangmo/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Contemplation,Dharma,Meditation,Spirituality
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/nine-stages-of-mahamudra-1024x747.jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241122T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241221T120000
DTSTAMP:20260502T120912
CREATED:20240123T175039Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240527T154626Z
UID:3964-1732298400-1734782400@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Echos from an Empty Sky - Meditation Retreat with Dónal Creedon
DESCRIPTION:“All things hang like a drop of dew  \nUpon a blade of grass.” ~ W.B.Yeats \nThis year we will continue to explore the human condition\, particularly our common experience of disillusionment and disappointment in life. According to the Buddha\, the source of trouble is self-grasping and in particular the afflicted mind (kliṣṭamanas). \nThe Sanskrit word klista has the connotations of “pain\,” “affliction\,” “distress\,” “anguish\,” “anger\,” and “worldly trouble.” As long as the afflicted mind rules we are never out of trouble. The teachings on transience (anitya)\, self absence (anātman)\, dissatisfaction (duhkha)\, emptiness (shūnyata)\, and buddha nature (sugatagarbha) will form the background. In particular\, our lodestar will be the teachings on Buddha nature which point to another possibility\, beyond illusion\, the other shore (Pāramitā) as it were. \nThese teachings form the basis for Mahamūdra. Our intention is to bring these extraordinary teachings out of the text and into our lives in a non-theoretical way. Why not give it a go? Take a leap into the deep end. \nIdeally\, it’s best to attend the whole retreat if possible. Nonetheless\, it is acceptable to attend in part for a minimum of one week with entry dates on Friday 22 November\, Saturday 30 November\, and Saturday 7 December. \nConditions for Joining the Retreat\nThis is a Buddhist meditation retreat and is particularly suitable for those with some knowledge and experience. However\, everyone is welcome. Each person should be committed to the programme and leave personal demands and agendas aside. This is essential. Ethical conduct based on Buddhist precepts and consideration for others is assumed. If you cannot fulfill these conditions please do not come. \nAbout Dónal Creedon\nDónal Creedon is a Buddhist meditation teacher with many years of experience\, loved and deeply appreciated for his warmth\, openness\, and sincerity. He studied and practiced with Buddhist masters of the Kagyu practice lineage in Europe as well as in India and Nepal. This involved many years of intense retreat. Dónal also spent a number of years at the Krishnamurti Centre in Varanasi as resident Buddhist scholar. Thus the radical inquiry of Krishnamurti informs his approach. \nIn 2017\, he published ‘The Main of Light’\, a study that examines the teachings of J Krishnamurti in the light of Buddhist teachings\, specifically the teachings of the Mahamudra and Dzogchen lineages. The teachings of the Buddha and Krishnamurti both explore the most profound and fundamental questions of human existence. They directly address the questions of sorrow\, fear\, and death\, as well as the deepest meaning a human life can attain beyond the travail and illusion of dualism. They point to the sources of sorrow and the ending of sorrow\, to the possibility of living a life informed by intelligence and compassion. As Dónal says: “It is my hope that this study will serve as a modest contribution to what I feel is an immensely important area of human exploration. I hope it will stimulate questions not only in Buddhist and Krishnamurti students but anyone interested in the deep problems that affect our world so grievously.” \nCost\nThe costs include accommodation\, all ova-lacto meals from supper on the first night to lunch on the last day\, a supplement for teacher airfares\, and an optional R60 environmental levy. There is a 5 % discount if you stay for 2 weeks\, a 10% discount for 3 weeks\, and a 15% discount for 4 weeks. These discounts are already included in the cost.\nTRC members receive a further 10% discount if membership is paid up for 6 months before the retreat.\nThe cost excludes Dana (an offering of appreciation to the teacher)\, and staff tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Accommodation: From Fri 22 November\n 8 Nights\n 15 Nights\n 22 Nights\n 29 Nights\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R5\,200\n  R7\,900\n  R10\,300\n  R12\,400\n\n\n  Camping TRC Tent/Cabin\n  R6\,000\n  R9\,300\n  R12\,300\n  R14\,900\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R6\,000\n  R9\,300\n  R12\,300\n  R14\,900\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (sharing\, per person)\n  R6\,800\n  R10\,700\n  R14\,300\n  R17\,300\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (sharing\, per person)\n  R7\,600\n  R12\,200\n  R16\,300\n  R19\,800\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom\n  R8\,400\n  R13\,600\n  R18\,200\n  R22\,300\n\n\n  Single ensuite room\n  R9\,200\n  R15\,000\n  R20\,200\n  R24\,700\n\n\n  Single Rooms (Office Block)\n  R6\,000\n  R9\,300\n  R12\,300\n  R14\,900\n\n\n  Brown House en suite\, shared\n  R7\,200\n  R11\,400\n  R15\,300\n  R18\,600\n\n\n  Brown House – single\n  R6\,400\n  R10\,000\n  R13\,300\n  R16\,100\n\n\n  Brown House – dorm\n  R5\,600\n  R8\,600\n  R11\,300\n  R13\,700\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Accommodation: From Sat 30 November/Sat 7 December\n 7 Nights\n 14 Nights\n 21 Nights\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n R4\,700\n R7\,500\n R9\,900\n\n\n  Camping TRC Tent/Cabin\n R5\,400\n R8\,800\n R11\,800\n\n\n  Dormitory\n R5\,400\n R8\,800\n R11\,800\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (sharing\, per person)\n R6\,100\n R10\,100\n R13\,700\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (sharing\, per person)\n R6\,800\n R11\,500\n R15\,600\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom\n R7\,500\n R12\,800\n R17\,500\n\n\n  Single ensuite room\n R8\,200\n R14\,100\n R19\,400\n\n\n  Single Rooms (Office Block)\n R5\,400\n R8\,800\n R11\,800\n\n\n  Brown House en suite\, shared\n R6\,500\n R10\,800\n R14\,600\n\n\n  Brown House – single\n R5\,800\n R9\,500\n R12\,700\n\n\n  Brown House – dorm\n R5\,100\n R8\,100\n R10\,900\n\n\n\nPlease contact us for work-exchange options or payment plans. \nTransport to/from TRC & Airport Shuttle\nAn airport shuttle will be available from OR Tambo to TRC on Friday 22\, and Sat 30 November\, and a return journey on Sat 21 December. Other shuttle trips may be organized on the change-over days\, depending on number of participants. \nThe cost for the return airport shuttle is estimated at R1700 per person. This is an extra cost\, and not included above. \nTRC will help with carpooling where possible. It is also possible to travel on the InterCape bus from OR Tambo airport (leaving at 11 AM) to Groot Marico (around R350) and TRC can arrange a pickup to the Centre (R200). The InterCape bus leaves Groot Marico at about 9 AM\, if you would like to return using the bus. \nPlease ensure that your flight arrives before 10 am (8 AM if you are using the InterCape bus)\, to give you time to collect your luggage and pass through immigration. On the return trip\, the shuttle will depart TRC around lunchtime\, to arrive at ORT by 5.30 pm. Please book local flights to leave after 7 pm\, and international flights to leave after 8 pm. \nTo Book\nPlease use our online booking form\, which can be completed easily on a phone or tablet. Bookings are open. \nA 50% deposit will secure your choice of accommodation. You are also welcome to discuss a payment plan with us. \nPeople who stay for longer periods will be preferentially allocated their choice of accommodation. \n 
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/a-meditation-retreat-with-donal-creedon/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Contemplation,Dharma,Inquiry,Insight,Meditation,Spirituality,Tibetan Buddhism
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241025T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241029T140000
DTSTAMP:20260502T120912
CREATED:20240430T150334Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241003T144925Z
UID:4024-1729879200-1730210400@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:ZenPen - Writing\, Being and Meditation
DESCRIPTION:Join us for A Writing\, Being\, and Meditation Retreat with Dorian Haarhoff for a weekend\, with the option to extend your experience to the following Tuesday for A Stream of Words Retreat. \nWe can make our minds so like still water that beings gather about us to see their own images\, and so live for a moment with a clearer\, perhaps even with a fiercer life because of our silence. W.B. Yeats \nZen (Chinese chán ‘quietude’) invites us to be present\, to live\, and write simply. \nPen (Latin penna ‘feather’) refers to the art of writing and to our implements. \nWhat do writing\, being\, and breath share in common? They all bring alive and expand the present moment. They invoke a conversation with ourselves and others. \ntime to write…attend to stories… be present in bushveld\, wooded valley\, rest alongside perennial streams… walk amid rolling hills… stargaze… breathe… be…. \nDiscover the writer inside you. We explore our innate creativity and imagination as we journey down the river of our lives\, steady the boat and dip the oars into hidden depths. \nSomewhere in this garden\,\nthey say\, a green man hides\nin the camouflage of leaves and twigs.\nHis hair\, a weeping willow\, hung\nin tendrils\, fringes his tree-ring face…\nHe’s companion to the woman at the well\nwho trails her mint skirt to sweep the paths.\nWhen the moon glides across ponds\,\nthey say\, the ripple of her grin\ncircles in undulating waves. (Dorian) \nCome and source your bliss. Beginners are welcome. \nYour Facilitator:\nDorian Haarhoff  is a story-teller\, poet\, speaker and a writing mentor. A former Prof of English Literature (Namibia) he has also taught in a Canadian faculty. Dorian facilitates writing and story-telling retreats. He is passionate about developing innate creativity and imagination. He believes in the power of stories and images to create new realities. To bring healing. To build our belonging. His wordshops are based on his workbook\, The Writer’s Voice.  \n  \nCost:\nThe cost includes accommodation of your choice\, all meals from the evening of your arrival to lunch on your day of departure\, a facilitator fee\, a contribution towards teacher travel\, and a voluntary R60 environmental levy. Those staying for 4 nights get an extra 10% discount (already included in the price). \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  2 nights\n  4 nights\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R1\,600\n  R2\,600\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R1\,800\n  R3\,000\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per person):\n  R2\,000\n  R3\,400\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person):\n  R2\,200\n  R3\,700\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom (only 3 available):\n  R2\,400\n  R4\,100\n\n\n  Single use of ensuite room (if space available):\n  R2\,600\n  R4\,400\n\n\n\nTo book:\nPlease click here for our user-friendly online booking form. \nA 50% deposit will confirm your accommodation of choice.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/zenpen-writing-being-and-meditation/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Buddhism,communication,Contemplation,Meditation,Mindfulness,Writing
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DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240315T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240317T130000
DTSTAMP:20260502T120912
CREATED:20240116T163333Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240116T182056Z
UID:3913-1710525600-1710680400@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:A Courageous Heart
DESCRIPTION:Our minds are naturally perfect but because of our obscurations and afflictions\, we have forgotten our true pure nature. The noble Tara is the embodiment of the swift and courageous compassion of all of the Buddhas\, and by invoking her energy\, she can swiftly liberate us from our fears by connecting us to our intrinsic courageous and compassionate heart essence. \nDuring this weekend retreat\, Lama Rinchen will give teachings on the various aspects of Tara and will lead us in the practice of her sadhana. This weekend is open to all who wish to explore the inner meaning of  Tara as an homage to the interconnectedness of all worlds and beings and develop trust in an open and fearless heart. \n  \nTeacher:\nOf French descent\, Lama Rinchen Palmo is a highly experienced meditation teacher who has spent over 12 years in retreat and has previously assisted with the supervision of the long retreats on Holy Isle. She is specialized in the Vajrayana practices of Tibetan Buddhism and has led many retreats on Arya Tara. She is one of the three Western female lamas who have been appointed within the Samye Ling mandala and is well known for her compassionate and down-to-earth style of teaching. She currently resides in Belgium where she divides her time between the Samye Dzong Brussels Centre and the Samye Meditation Gardens retreat centre in the countryside near the French border\, which promotes both outer and inner ecology. \n  \nCost:\nThis is a Dana-based retreat. The cost of the retreat covers accommodation and lacto-ovo vegetarian meals from Friday supper to lunch on Sunday. It also includes a supplement for airfares and a voluntary enviro fee of R60. It excludes Dana\, an offering to the teacher\, as well as staff tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Accommodation Type\n  Cost (2 nights)\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R1\,500\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R1\,700\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R1\,900\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R2\,100\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom:\n  R2\,300\n\n\n  Single ensuite room\n  R2\,500\n\n\n\n  \nBookings:\nPlease click here to fill in the booking form. A 50% deposit will confirm your booking.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/a-courageous-heart/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Buddhism,compassion,Contemplation,Dharma,Meditation,Mindfulness,Tibetan Buddhism
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DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240202T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240211T180000
DTSTAMP:20260502T120912
CREATED:20240101T183903Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240101T183903Z
UID:3867-1706896800-1707674400@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Get Set for 2024: New Year Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Do you need time to refocus and reconnect?\nAre you yearning to change direction or deepen your current work?\nDo you wish for a gentle start to 2024?\nHow would it feel to start the year simply?\n\nThis offering extends the Weaving Intentions retreat for a 4-night stay or includes the Speak with Clarity\, Listen with Compassion Retreat for a 9-night deep dive. \nFor the Weaving Intentions\, you will be invited to explore how to meet each moment of your life with clarity and care\, not just at the start of the year\, but each and every day. Lucy will guide you through practices of mindfulness meditation\, gentle yoga and expressive movement to awaken the senses and witness what is yearning to emerge. We will use embodiment practices to become receptive and open\, to attune and align\, and from this grounded place\, to touch into the qualities we wish to cultivate in the year ahead. During the week\, we will continue to practice together\, with more time for walks and journalling\, imagining\, and planning. \nIf you can stay for the second weekend\, we will learn how to use our words skillfully\, to put these intentions into action. The Speak with Clarity\, Listen with Compassion retreat explores the principles and practices of mindfulness and non-violent communication (NVC)\, to foster connection and minimize the suffering of outmoded ways of engaging. We will practice both intra-personal and inter-personal mindfulness in order to cultivate skills of empathy\, compassion\, and a better understanding of self and other. Contemplative dyads are a way to promote social connectedness\, something that we are often lacking in daily life where our time is dominated by digital devices. Together\, these practices will help us communicate more consciously so that we learn to be aware of our feelings and needs\, make requests to meet these needs and stay open to the feelings and needs of others. \n  \nOptions\nYou are warmly invited for 2\, 4 or 9 nights of nourishing practice.\nOption 1: The first weekend retreat (2 nights) runs from 2 – 4 February. \nOption 2:  A 4-night retreat runs from 2nd – 6th February \nOption 3:  A second 4-night retreat runs from 7th – 11th February. \nOption 4: The 9-night options runs from 2nd – 11th February\, including both weekend retreats. \n  \nYour Facilitators\nLucy Draper-Clarke PhD is a mindfulness mentor and researcher-practitioner\, with a doctorate in Mindfulness and Teacher Education. She now runs Heart-Mind\, facilitating mindfulness retreats\, and supervising Masters and PhD candidates. Through the instruction of inspiring Buddhist teachers such as Rob Nairn\, Donal Creedon\, Jack Kornfield and Thich Nhat Hanh\, she has developed a daily meditation practice\, and loves to support others in starting their own. Her light-hearted approach allows retreat participants to learn through a joyful\, yet transformative experience. \n  \nFelicity Joan Hart has practised meditation\, mindfulness and yoga for over 35 years and now teaches within these modalities. Her formal qualifications include an Honours Degree in Psychology\, international coaching qualifications\, and a PGC in Mindfulness-Based Interventions from the University of Stellenbosch. She is an enthusiastic student and teacher of Non-Violent communication as developed by Dr Marshall Rosenberg.   Her teaching style is interesting\, intuitive\, precise\, responsive and entertaining. \n  \n  \nCost\nThe cost includes accommodation\, all meals\, tea and snacks\, facilitated sessions and materials. The food is ovo-lacto vegetarian\, with vegan/gluten free options available on request. Cost is dependent on your choice of accommodation. \n  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Accommodation\n  2 nights\n  4 nights\n  9 nights\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R2900\n  R3900\n  R7700\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R3100\n  R4300\n  R8500\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (sharing\, per   person)\n  R3300\n  R4500\n  R8700\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (sharing\, per   person)\n  R3500\n  R4700\n  R8900\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom (only 3 available)\n  R3700\n  R4900\n  R9100\n\n\n  Single ensuite room\n  R3900\n  R5100\n  R9300\n\n\n\n\n  \nTo Book\nPlease fill in our online booking form. \nA 50% deposit will confirm your booking. \nBooking Terms and Conditions \n 
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/get-set-for-2024-new-year-retreat/
LOCATION:North West Province
CATEGORIES:communication,Contemplation,Embodied meditation,Inquiry,Insight,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Relaxing,Walking,Yoga
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