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DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260402T170000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260406T130000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20251103T102255Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260321T122048Z
UID:4470-1775149200-1775480400@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Family Easter Camp 2026
DESCRIPTION:A family-friendly retreat in nature \nEaster Camp at Tara Rokpa Centre is traditionally a family affair — and a true “come as you are” gathering. We embrace the idea of family in its broadest and warmest sense: not only parents and children\, but also friends\, solo visitors\, community members\, urban tribes\, and anyone wishing to connect with the joyful\, inclusive spirit of Easter Camp. \nThis year\, our weekend will be gently held within the Tibetan understanding of the Five Elements — earth\, water\, fire\, air and space. \nThe five elements offer a dynamic way of understanding life. All living beings are composed of these elements — only their proportions differ. When the elements are in balance\, there is harmony and well-being. When they fall out of balance\, disharmony can arise. This balance is never fixed; it is constantly shifting within us and around us. \nOver the weekend\, we will explore the Tibetan schema of the five elements in practice and in experience. We will become familiar with their qualities and characteristics\, observe how they interact\, and begin to notice our own mind–body states in relation to them. In doing so\, we cultivate greater awareness\, balance and understanding — in ourselves\, in our relationships\, and in the natural world. \nA Relaxed and Nourishing Weekend\nThis will be a relaxed\, heartwarming time in the wide-open bushveld — a chance to rest\, reconnect\, and simply be. \nActivities will include reflections\, visualisations\, playful exploration with art materials and natural objects\, and guided relaxations from the Tara Rokpa Therapy toolbox. There will also be gentle\, mindful movement to bring caring attention to the body. \nChildren are warmly welcomed! If there are sufficient numbers\, there will be a morning programme designed especially for them\, including creative activities and\, of course\, the much-loved Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Sunday. Babies and toddlers will need to be cared for by their parents or caregivers. Please ask us about discounted rates for caregivers who do not take part in the facilitated activities. \nOther optional activities include meditation\, walks in the beautiful Tara Rokpa Centre surroundings\, swimming\, mountain biking\, birding\, star-gazing\, singing around the campfire\, or simply sleeping — especially for those arriving from over-busy\, stressful lives. \nPractical Details\nThe retreat begins with supper on Thursday. Guests are also welcome to arrive for lunch on Friday. We conclude with lunch on Easter Monday — a long weekend of simplicity\, connection and joy in the beautiful Tara Rokpa Centre. \nCome and join us for a nourishing\, family-friendly Easter in nature — where everyone is welcome\, and nothing is required but your presence. \n  \nTake time to breathe.\nTo play.\nTo rest.\nTo reconnect with what truly matters. \n  \n  \nFacilitators:\n\nPippa Cope offers mindful movement\, including somatics and Donna Farhi-inspired yoga. She has been involved with the Tara Rokpa Therapy process for 20 years as a senior helper in South Africa and Zimbabwe and has offered workshops in Canada. Pippa has been resident at TRC for over 20 years as jack of all trades. She previously spent her professional life working as an Occupational Therapist\, Social Worker and Community Development manager. \n\nSharon Benatar is a Clinical Psychologist in private practice. She has facilitated life skills training and personal development through workshops and individual therapy for over 25 years. Sharon is a senior helper /certified facilitator of “Learning to Relax”\, and “The 5 Elements” courses (Tara Rokpa Therapy/ Back to Beginnings\, a therapeutic approach developed by Ven. Akong Rinpoche). She has run residential workshops at Emoyeni retreat Centre (Magaliesburg) for over 20 years. She facilitated the first UJ Honours Art Therapy studio work in 2020. She has facilitated mentor workshops in The More To Life programme. Sharon draws inspiration from Eastern/Western approaches to healing\, personal growth\, and finding inner and outer balance. This is supported by the creative arts (art materials\, image/symbol and poetry)\, deep relaxation and mindfulness/meditation. \nCost\nWe try to keep the costs as low as possible to allow families as well as individuals to attend. Accommodation is allocated according to confirmed bookings and preference.\nThe costs include all meals from supper on Thursday (4-night stay) or lunch on Friday (3-night stay) to lunch on Monday. The fees include a contribution to the facilitators and an optional R60 environmental fee for adults but exclude staff tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  4 Nights\n  3 Nights\n\n\n   Adult\n  R2 700\n  R2 200\n\n\n   Teen 1\n  R2 000\n  R1 600\n\n\n   Teen 2\, 3…\n  R1 300\n  R1\,100\n\n\n   Age 3 – 12\n  R  800\n  R 700\n\n\n   Under 3s\n  R0\n  R0\n\n\n\nTo Book:\nPlease click here to fill in our online booking form for each adult attending. Let us also know the names and ages of any children attending. \nA 50% deposit will confirm your booking.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/family-easter-camp-2026/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Fun,Inquiry,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Music and Rythm,Outdoor,Play,Relaxing,Tara Rokpa Therapy,Walking,Yoga
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/The-Best-Cosmos-Cultivars-FB.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260130T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260201T130000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20251103T095022Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251103T095022Z
UID:4460-1769796000-1769950800@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Accepting Yourself\, Finding Peace
DESCRIPTION:Cultivating inner peace through self-acceptance and self-forgiveness with Vera Hey. \n“The path is not to seek for love but merely to seek and find all the barriers within ourselves that we have built against it”. Rumi \nMany of us built an inner prison of beliefs about our deficient self. The biggest threat to our happiness and well-being is when we turn on ourselves with blame\, based on a chronic sense of not being enough or not being good enough. Our inner critic can be so harsh and unforgiving! \nIt takes a conscious commitment to befriend ourselves and cultivate self-forgiveness! Self-forgiveness is about becoming your own best friend. It is about building a connection with yourself that is more real and true than any personality traits we may have. \nDuring this retreat\, we’ll explore how to cultivate self-acceptance and self-forgiveness. We’ll also consider goals one may choose for this year to build a relationship with oneself. \nWe will utilise techniques from the mindfulness toolbox\, including guided relaxations\, meditation\, reflections\, gentle yoga\, and nature walks. \nFacilitator: Vera Hey\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. \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/accepting-yourself-finding-peace/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:compassion,Embodied meditation,Inquiry,Insight,Meditation,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Walking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/©Souad_Herve-71-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20251223T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20260102T130000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20251011T142359Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251026T153019Z
UID:4430-1766512800-1767358800@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Christmas & New Year 10-Day Mindfulness and Relaxation Retreat(ish)
DESCRIPTION:Facilitated by Anton Krueger \nIn this holiday retreat\, we’ll explore exercises from the Mindfulness-Based Living Course designed by Rob Nairn and Mindfulness UK\, which will provide a foundation for our daily practice. Beyond this\, we’ll decide together about making space for other practices such as Green Tara and Chenrezig\, guided relaxation with Pippa\, gentle walks\, enquiry sessions\, journaling\, painting\, and even a 5 Rhythms movement experience. There might also be swimming and singing around a campfire. If you have something you’d like to offer – yoga\, Tai Chi\, contact improv – there’d also be space for you to share your practice with the rest of us. We’ll see what unfolds. \nFor myself\, I’ll be setting aside 2-3 hours each day for writing\, so there will also be time for rest\, quiet and solo practice. Come for the whole ten days\, or simply drop in – all welcome. \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 5 days\, and a 10 % discount for staying 10 days\, which is already included in these costs: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Accommodation Type:\n  2 Nights\n  5 Nights\n  10 Nights\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R1\,400\n  R2\,600\n  R4\,500\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R1\,600\n  R3\,100\n  R5\,400\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (sharing\, per person)\n  R1\,800\n  R3\,600\n  R6\,300\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (sharing\, per person)\n  R2\,000\n  R4\,000\n  R7\,200\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom\n  R2\,200\n  R4\,500\n  R8\,100\n\n\n  Single ensuite room\n  R2\,400\n  R5\,000\n  R9\,000\n\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\n— we’ll be happy to help you find the option that suits you best. \n  \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/christmas-new-year-10-day-mindfulness-and-relaxation-retreatish/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Fun,Inquiry,Meditation,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Play,Relaxing
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/P1190979.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Anton Krueger":MAILTO:mnrkrueger@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251111
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251205
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
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:20260501T144644
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:20250425T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250428T133000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
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:20250417T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250421T140000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20241003T172537Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250316T100854Z
UID:4278-1744912800-1745244000@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Footprints:  EASTER CAMP 2025
DESCRIPTION:Footprints\n“The impression left by a foot on the ground.” \nWhat impressions have your feet made throughout your life? If we look around –  we are living in a world of war\, climate change and uncertainty. The fast pace of life and our addiction to technology have brought about a loss of connection to ourselves\, each other\, and our planet. How do we stand amidst this? How are our feet placed on the ground? Are our footprints deep and heavy\, out of balance\, or not even there? \nHow would you like your footprint to be? \nOver the Easter weekend\, we will use the Tara Rokpa Therapy methods to look at how we stand on the ground. We shall explore how we can reconnect\, find our balance\, strengthen our connection to others and our planet. Can our footprints show our intention – do we step with soft feet\, an easy mind and a light heart? \n“Tread softly because you tread on my dreams” ~ W B Yeats \nSpend a relaxing long weekend in the African Bush with the Tara Rokpa Therapy team. The weekend is open to all\, and families are welcome. There will be planned activities on the theme of Footprints\, as well as plenty of time to relax and play. \nParticipants are welcome to arrive a day earlier to settle in\, or to stay on for another night. \nFacilitators:\nTuula Styrman has worked and studied for over 40 years as a body therapist \, masseur\, lecturer\, coach and trainer. She works at the Terhokoti -hospice in Helsinki\, Finland offering gentle\, supportive massage for hospice clients\, their family members as well as for the personnel. She also works in schools with students and teachers\, with healthcare professional as well as working people and people in challenging working environments.\nTuula actively educates social and health care professionals and volunteers in respectful touch and is one of the authors of “The Handbook for Respectful Touch” for Social and Healthcare Personnel. She is also one of the translators of the new edition of the Taming the Tiger book in Finnish\,\nTuula has been involved with Tara Rokpa work from 1998 and completed her own Tara Rokpa process in Finland in 2002. She has trained in the Tara Rokpa Therapy process as a short course leader and is just about to complete her Therapist training process. She works with the method in Finland and Sweden. \n  \nTrish Swift B.Soc.Sc.\, MSS\, M.Sc. Trish is a registered clinical social work therapist and is currently working in private practice in Harare. She has lectured at the University of Zimbabwe and is currently the Senior Tara Rokpa Therapist representing Africa. Traveling extensively throughout Southern Africa and Europe\, she is a widely sought after and much-loved facilitator and therapist. \n  \nJayne Pilossof is a compassionate and skilled  kinesiologist who lives and works in Zimbabwe. With a background in textile design\, she worked as a freelance designer before embarking on a transformative journey in 1994\, when she began her own Tara Rokpa Therapy (TRT) process\, completing it in 2000. Because she found it so inspiring and beneficial \, she wanted to share this with others and began her own training to become a therapist. In 2010\, she formally started her path to becoming a therapist\, and completed the 5 year training to become a certified Tara Rokpa Therapist in 2014. Today\, Jayne works as a Tara Rokpa therapist in Harare and Chitungwiza. She also works in South Africa\, Germany\, England\, and other parts of Europe. \nCosts:\nThe costs cover all accommodation for 4 nights\, meals from Thursday evening until Monday lunch and a fee to cover the facilitator costs. For the cost of an extra day’s accommodation\, please inquire at retreat@tararokpacentre.co.za. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n 4 Nights\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R3\,400\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R3\,800\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R4\,200\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R4\,600\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom:\n  R5\,000\n\n\n  Single ensuite room\n  R5\,400\n\n\n\n  \nWe also have a family discount to make the weekend more affordable for families. Families will be allocated shared rooms together. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Family Rates\n  4 Nights\n\n\n  Adult\n  R4\,200\n\n\n  Teen 1\n  R2\,300\n\n\n  Teen 2\, 3…\n  R1\,700\n\n\n  Age 3 – 12\n  R1\,000\n\n\n  Under 3s\n  R0\n\n\n\n  \nTo Book:\nClick here to book for the retreat. \nA 50% deposit will confirm your booking. \nAirport Shuttle\nIf there is sufficient interest\, an airport shuttle to/from OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg will be arranged. The cost would be an estimated additional R1500 per person. \nPlease ensure that your incoming flights land before 10 am\, and please book international flights after 8 pm for your departure. \nAlternatively\, there is an intercity bus from the airport to Gaborone that departs the airport at 11 am\, and stops in Groot Marico. These tickets must be pe-booked online. \nVisit to Game Reserve\nA visit may be arranged to a nearby game reserve after the retreat. Please contact Jayne to express your interest.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/footprints-easter-camp-2025/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Inquiry,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Spirituality,Tara Rokpa Therapy,Walking,Yoga
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20240709_115016-scaled.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250320T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20250323T140000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20240915T102550Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250102T132350Z
UID:4197-1742493600-1742738400@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Exploring the Mind/Body Connection
DESCRIPTION:Do your emotions affect your body? \nA pain in the neck or back; itchy palms; cold feet… Not a day goes by that our bodies don’t “speak” to us through tickles and tingles\, headaches and bellyaches etc… \nHave you ever noticed a connection between twitches and twinges\, shaking or lower backache and unnoticed emotions? Perhaps it is the body’s way of conveying underlying unnoticed needs. \nDuring this weekend retreat\, we will be exploring the connection between mind and body through discussions and direct experience\, using techniques from the Mindfulness toolbox such as relaxation\, meditation\, reflection\, gentle yoga\, and walks in nature. \nYou are welcome to come for the long weekend (3 nights)\, or for two nights. \nYour Facilitator:\nVera Hey is a mindfulness practitioner and an experienced mindfulness facilitator. She uses the insight and awareness gained from her mindfulness practice in her personal life and in her career as a psychological counselor. She is a student of Rob Nairn\, 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 supper to Sunday lunch\, a facilitator fee\, and a voluntary environmental levy of R60. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n          Accommodation Type\n           Cost per person\n\n\n\n   2 Nights\n   3 Nights\n\n\n   Camping (own tent)\n   R1 400\n   R2 000\n\n\n   Dormitory\n   R1 600\n   R2 300\n\n\n   Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per person):\n   R1 800\n   R2 600\n\n\n   Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person):\n   R2 000\n   R2 900\n\n\n   Single room with shared bathroom:\n   R2 200\n   R3 200\n\n\n   Single-use ensuite room:\n   R2 400\n   R3 500\n\n\n\nTo book:\nPlease book using this online form. \nA 50% deposit will confirm the accommodation of your choice. \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/exploring-the-mind-body-connection/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Inquiry,Insight,Meditation,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Relaxing,Walking,Yoga
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/mind-body-dancing-girl-copy-1.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241122T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20241221T120000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/WhatsApp-Image-2023-02-06-at-12.11.01b.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240808T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240811T180000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20240430T105645Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240430T105743Z
UID:4064-1723140000-1723399200@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Making Friends with Ourselves - A Mindfulness Retreat
DESCRIPTION:“She looked her demons right in the eye and said “don’t you worry…” we will become the best of friends.” – N.R. Hart \nWe all have our “demons”. They are parts of ourselves that we don’t approve of\, don’t accept\, don’t like\, deny\, hate\, fight\, and do our best to conquer. What if we were to try the opposite? A different approach would be to invite\, get to know\, accept\, and turn into allies! \nDuring this three-day retreat\, starting on Thursday evening\, and ending on Sunday 11 August\, we’ll be meeting our “demons”\, giving them physical form via art materials\, conversing with them\, and befriending them. There is also the option of joining the retreat from lunchtime on Friday\, which is a public holiday. \nThis retreat will use techniques from the mindfulness toolbox such as relaxation\, meditation\, reflection\, gentle yoga\, and walks in nature. \nYour Facilitator:\nVera Hey is a mindfulness practitioner and an experienced mindfulness facilitator. She uses the insight and awareness gained from her mindfulness practice in her personal life and in her career as a psychological counselor. She is a student of Rob Nairn\, 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 either Thursday supper or Friday lunchtime to Sunday lunch\, a facilitator fee\, and a voluntary environmental levy of R60. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  2 nights\n  3 nights\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R1\,600\n  R1\,900\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R1\,800\n  R2\,200\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per person):\n  R2\,000\n  R2\,500\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person):\n  R2\,200\n  R2\,800\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom (only 3 available):\n  R2\,400\n  R3\,100\n\n\n  Single ensuite room (if space available):\n  R2\,600\n  R3\,400\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/making-friends-with-ourselves/
LOCATION:North West Province
CATEGORIES:compassion,Embodied meditation,Inquiry,Insight,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Relaxing,Walking,Yoga
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/The-Benefits-of-Friendship-in-a-World-of-Individualism.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240209T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240211T180000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20240101T180326Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240101T184348Z
UID:3860-1707501600-1707674400@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Speak with Clarity\, Listen with Compassion
DESCRIPTION:“When you are busy judging people\, you have no time to love them.”  \nMarshall Rosenberg \nWhen interacting with others\, we often find ourselves triggered and then communicate in ways that hurt or harm – ourselves\, the other\, or the relationship between us.  Our conditioned ideas of what it means to communicate\, especially during times of conflict\, frequently results in a loss of connection.  Judgement and defense\, as well as the strategies of criticism\, insults\, blame\, or put-downs\, are commonly used in our attempt to be heard or to meet our need to be “right”\, “good” or “winning”.  Despite our best efforts and intentions\, we habitually become “violent” with our words and then feel the pain of disconnection. \nThis 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. \nYou can expect daily mindful meditation practice to support the empowering and enriching teachings of NVC\, gentle exercise\, and some downtime for rest and relaxation. \nAre you needing more time to refocus and reconnect? Retreat options available include extending your retreat to a 4-night break or incorporating the Weaving Intentions Retreat for a 9-night deep dive. \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  \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:\nIncludes accommodation\, all meals\, tea and snacks\, and facilitated sessions. 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  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  \nTo Book:\nPlease fill in the online booking form. A 50% deposit will confirm your booking. \nDeposit Terms and Conditions.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/speak-with-clarity-listen-with-compassion/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:communication,Inquiry,Insight,Meditation,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Relaxing,Writing,Yoga
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/NVC-Retreat.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240202T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240211T180000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
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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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20231104T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20231202T130000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20221225T183524Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230520T093012Z
UID:3554-1699120800-1701522000@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Selling Water by the River - Meditation Retreat with Dónal Creedon
DESCRIPTION:Selling Water by the River \nA Buddhist meditation and study retreat with Dónal Creedon. \n4 November to 2 December 2023 \n“All is hazard that we have\,\nThere is nothing biding;\nDays of pleasure are like streams\nThrough fair meadows gliding.\nWeal and woe\, time doth go\,\nTime is never turning;\nSecret fates guide our states\,\nBoth in mirth and mourning.” \nThomas Campion (1567-1620) \n  \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. Activities such as offering various therapies etc for money is not permitted however it is fine to help others if needed. \nIdeally\, it’s best to attend the whole retreat\, however\, it’s acceptable to attend part for a minimum of one week with entry dates on the 4th\, 11th\, and 18th. \nIf 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 table.\nTRC members receive a further 10% discount if membership is paid up for 6 months prior to 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\n  1 week\n  2 weeks\n  3 weeks\n  4 weeks\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R4\,200\n  R7\,000\n  R9\,500\n  R11\,600\n\n\n  Camping TRC Tent/Cabin\n  R4\,900\n  R8\,300\n  R11\,300\n  R14\,000\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R4\,900\n  R8\,300\n  R11\,300\n  R14\,000\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R5\,600\n  R9\,700\n  R13\,200\n  R16\,400\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R6\,300\n  R11\,000\n  R15\,100\n  R18\,800\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom (only 3 available):\n  R7\,000\n  R12\,300\n  R17\,000\n  R21\,100\n\n\n  Single-use of twin/double room\, shared bathroom:\n  R7\,000\n  R12\,300\n  R17\,000\n  R21\,100\n\n\n  Single ensuite room\n  R7\,700\n  R13\,600\n  R18\,900\n  R23\,500\n\n\n  Single-use of ensuite room (if space available):\n  R7\,700\n  R13\,600\n  R18\,900\n  R23\,500\n\n\n  Single Rooms (Office Block)\n  R4\,900\n  R8\,300\n  R11\,300\n  R14\,000\n\n\n  Brown House en suite\, shared\n  R6\,000\n  R10\,300\n  R14\,200\n  R17\,600\n\n\n  Brown House – single/shared\, pp\n  R5\,300\n  R9\,000\n  R12\,300\n  R15\,200\n\n\n  Brown House – dorm\n  R4\,600\n  R7\,700\n  R10\,400\n  R12\,800\n\n\n\n  \nTransport to/from TRC & Airport Shuttle\nAn airport shuttle will be available from OR Tambo to TRC on the 4th of November\, and a return journey on the 2nd of December. Other shuttle trips may be organized on the change-over days\, depending on the numbers. \nThe cost for the return airport shuttle is estimated at R2000 per person. This is an extra cost\, and not included above. \nTRC will help with carpooling where possible. It is also possible to get the InterCape bus from Park Station to Zeerust (around R350) and TRC can arrange a pickup to the Centre. \nPlease ensure that flights arrive before 10 am\, to give you time to collect your luggage and pass through immigration. On the return trip\, the shuttle will depart TRC after lunch\, 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. \nAs soon as the costs are published\, a 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 preferentially be allocated their choice of accommodation. \n  \nPhoto Credit: \nTania Romanov Amochaev
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/meditation-retreat-with-donal-creedon-2023/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma,Inquiry,Insight,Meditation,Tibetan Buddhism
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20231020T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20231022T130000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20230904T113528Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230904T113810Z
UID:3829-1697824800-1697979600@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Letting Go
DESCRIPTION:One day a donkey was walking along the road carrying a heavy load of baggage. He became very thirsty and finally spotted a little lake but it was way down off the road. So he took the load off his back\, and ran to have a drink of water. When he came back the baggage was gone. In shock he exclaimed: “What am I going to carry now?” \nLike a donkey in the story\, we all feel attached to our baggage. We all have things that we could let go of and be better off\, and our journey would be that much lighter! But we are very attached to our grief\, pain\, disappointments\, judgments\, attitudes\, habits\, etc. Those things keep us stuck\, and keep us from experiencing being fully at home in our precious lives. \n“If you let go a little you’ll find a little peace\, if you let go a lot you’ll find a lot of peace. If you let go absolutely you’ll find absolute peace and tranquility.” Ajahn Chah \nLetting go enables us to embrace change and new beginnings\, and allows us to live in openhearted presence. \nDuring this weekend we’ll be exploring a process of letting go of our attachments. Our days will include meditation\, walks in nature\, and gentle yoga. \nYour Facilitator:\nVera Hey is a mindfulness practitioner and an experienced mindfulness facilitator. She uses the insight and awareness gained from her mindfulness practice in her personal life and in her career as a psychological counselor. She is a student of Rob Nairn\, international Mindfulness and Meditation teacher\, and has completed his facilitator training course. \nCost:\nThe cost of the retreat includes accommodation and all vegetarian meals from Friday supper to Sunday lunch. It includes a facilitation fee and a voluntary environmental levy of R60. It excludes staff tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  2 nights\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R1\,400\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R1\,600\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per person):\n  R1\,800\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person):\n  R2\,000\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom (only 3 available):\n  R2\,200\n\n\n  Single-use of ensuite room (if space available):\n  R2\,400\n\n\n\n  \nTo book:\nTo book\, please fill in the online booking form. \nA 50% deposit confirms your booking. The deposit is not refundable but is transferrable to another retreat or person\, or can be used for up to a year.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/letting-go/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Embodied meditation,Inquiry,Insight,Meditation,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Relaxing,Spirituality,Walking,Yoga
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20230809T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20230813T140000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20230204T180325Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230624T173118Z
UID:3570-1691604000-1691935200@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Befriending Your Demons - A Women's Day Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Join us for this 4-night retreat from Wednesday 9 August (public holiday) to Sunday 13 August with Vera Hey. You are also welcome to come for a shorter stay – email us for options. Men also welcome! \n“You cannot defeat darkness by running from it\, nor can you conquer your inner demons by hiding them from the world. In order to defeat the darkness\, you must bring it into the light.”― Seth Adam Smith \nWe all have our “demons”. They are parts of ourselves that we don’t approve of\, don’t accept\, don’t like\, deny\, hate\, fight\, and do our best to conquer. What if we were to try the opposite? A different approach would be to invite\, get to know\, accept\, and turn into allies! \nDuring this four-day retreat\, starting on Women’s Day (9th of August)\, and ending on Sunday 13 August\, we’ll be meeting our “demons”\, giving them physical form via art materials\, conversing with them\, and befriending them. \nThis retreat will use techniques from the mindfulness toolbox such as relaxation\, meditation\, reflection\, gentle yoga\, and walks in nature. \nYour Facilitator:\n\nVera Hey is a mindfulness practitioner and an experienced mindfulness facilitator. She uses the insight and awareness gained from her mindfulness practice in her personal life and in her career as a psychological counselor. She is a student of Rob Nairn\, international Mindfulness and Meditation teacher\, and has completed his facilitator training course. \n\nCost:\nThe cost of the retreat includes accommodation\, and all meals from Wednesday (or Friday) supper to Sunday lunch. It includes a facilitation fee and a voluntary environmental levy of R60. It excludes staff tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  2 nights\n  4 nights\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R1\,200\n  R2\,400\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R1\,400\n  R2\,800\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per person):\n  R1\,700\n  R3\,300\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person):\n  R2\,000\n  R3\,900\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom (only 3 available):\n  R2\,200\n  R4\,300\n\n\n  Single-use of ensuite room (if space available):\n  R2\,400\n  R4\,700\n\n\n\nTo Book:\nTo book\, please fill in the online booking form. \nA 50% deposit confirms your booking. The deposit is not refundable but is transferrable to another retreat or person\, or can be used for up to a year. \n\n“Insomnia is just another word for chit chat with demons during bedtime.” – Daniel Saint \n\n\n“Our demons are our own limitations\, which shut us off from the realization of the ubiquity of the spirit. Each of these demons is conquered in a vision quest.” – Joseph Campbell \n\n\n“Everybody has flaws\, everybody has demons\, everybody has ghosts\, but I think you watch people and you see everybody trying to do their best.” — Jason Katims \n\n\n“Sometimes the worst place you can be is your head.” \n\n\n“We stop looking for monsters under the bed when we realize they are inside of us.” \n\n\n“Sometimes\, you can’t defeat the demons you enjoy playing with.” \n\n\n“I can’t drown my demons\, they know how to swim.” \n\n\n“Some of my demons left me\, some are just asleep.  \nA few always travel with me\, others haunt me from the deep.  \nThe little ones are charming\, they are allowed to stay.  \nThe big ones tear up inside\, I just wish they’d go away.” \n\n\n“Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster. And if you gaze long enough into an abyss\, the abyss will gaze back into you.” — Friedrich Nietzsche \n\n\n“Overcome the demons with a thing called love.” – Bob Marley \n\n\n“When you feel my heat\, look into my eyes\, it’s where my demons hide. Don’t get too close\, it’s dark inside. It’s where my demons hide.” – Imagine Dragons \n\n\n“She looked her demons right in the eye and said “don’t you worry…” we will become the best of friends.” – N.R. Hart
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/befriending-your-demons-2/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:compassion,Embodied meditation,Inquiry,Insight,Meditation,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Relaxing,Yoga
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20230407T130000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20230410T140000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20230204T191152Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230209T202613Z
UID:3580-1680872400-1681135200@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Family Easter Camp 2023
DESCRIPTION:This long weekend getaway in the glorious autumnal bushveld will be facilitated by senior Tara Rokpa Therapist Brion Sweeney\, from Ireland. The weekend will be structured around the theme of  “Mindfulness in Everyday Life”. This will include Tara Rokpa Therapy methods and shiné meditation alongside specific mindfulness techniques given to Tara Rokpa therapists by Akong Rinpoche over a number of years. \nAll are welcome to the Easter Camp\, and to join in with the activities on offer. At TRC\, family is defined in a broad sense\, from the traditional nuclear and extended families\, and extends to friends\, individuals\, urban tribe members\, community members\, TRC visitors\, and anyone wanting to connect with the spirit of the Easter Camp. Children are welcome and there will be a morning programme for them\, including the traditional Easter Egg hunt on Easter Sunday. \nThere will also be a chance for some caring attention to the body in the form of mindful movement. Other activities available include meditation\, walks in the beautiful TRC surroundings\, swimming\, mountain biking\, birding\, star-gazing\, singing around the campfire\, or just sleeping for those with over busy\, stressful lives! \nFacilitator:\n\nBrion Sweeney is a retired consultant psychiatrist having previously worked in Ireland in the National Health Service in Dublin. In addition he holds a masters degree in psychotherapy from University College Dublin. Brion undertook his own experiential training in Tara Rokpa Therapy under the guidance of Akong Rinpoche who had developed TRT to help people to develop their potential. He became a Tara Rokpa therapist in 1992  and thereafter worked with other TRT therapists helping to refine Tara Therapy. More recently Brion spent three years in retreat under the guidance of Tai Situpa Rinpoche.\n\n\nCost:\nWe aim to keep the costs as low as possible to allow families to attend. Accommodation is allocated according to confirmed bookings\, and preference. \nThe costs include all meals from lunch on Friday to lunch on Monday but exclude staff tips. The fees include a contribution to the facilitator’s expenses and an optional R60 environmental fee for adults. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Full Rate (adults):\n  R3\,000\n\n\n  Teen 1\n  R1\,800\n\n\n  Teen 2\, 3….\n  R1\,200\n\n\n  Children 3 – 12\n  R800\n\n\n  Under 3\n  Free\n\n\n\nPlease contact us for more options – don’t let a lack of finances stop you from participating. \nYou are also welcome to come for an extra night before the start or to stay on after the retreat. Contact us for rates. \nTo Book:\nPlease fill in our online booking form for each person\, teen\, and child. \nA 50% deposit will secure your choice of accommodation.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/family-easter-camp-2023/
LOCATION:North West Province
CATEGORIES:compassion,Embodied meditation,Inquiry,Meditation,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Relaxing,Tara Rokpa Therapy,Walking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20230203T170000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20230205T140000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20221114T122113Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221114T133752Z
UID:3535-1675443600-1675605600@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Imprinting Intentions – a New Year Retreat
DESCRIPTION:with Dr Lucy Draper-Clarke \nPerhaps there’s no need for personal growth\, to make a mark or to get ahead? Instead of goals\, resolutions\, and To Do lists\, how would it feel to be present without resistance and to watch life unfold? \nIf this sounds like the gentle invitation you need for 2023\, then please join Lucy Draper-Clarke\, who has been holding intentions retreats at TRC since 2009. Give yourself the space to focus on how you would like to be\, and to imprint gentle intentions as a daily life practice. \nDuring this retreat\, we’ll explore how to meet each moment of our lives with clarity and care\, not just at the beginning of the year\, but every day. We will take the opportunity to become receptive and open\, to attune and align\, and to resource ourselves for whatever lies ahead. \nLucy will guide you through practices of mindfulness meditation\, gentle yoga\, and expressive movement to awaken the senses and the imagination. These work to resource and rebalance the body\, heart\, and mind. From this place\, we can touch into the qualities and aspirations we wish to cultivate for the year ahead. \nHow many of us make New Year’s resolutions\, and then become disillusioned? For this retreat\, we will explore how to recommit to our intentions each morning\, through simple rituals and practices. By planting the seed of intention in community\, we can generate the momentum needed to keep our intentions alive in the midst of daily life. \nProgramme:\nAfter the first evening of introductions and grounding practices\, we will wake up to gentle moving and sitting meditation sessions in the Octagon\, followed by a healthy breakfast in the open dining area. There will then be an extended ‘Imprinting Intentions’ workshop before tucking into a filling vegetarian lunch. Participants can either rest in the afternoon or visit the nearby waterfall in Tara’s Valley\, or die Oog – the Eye. This is the 14m deep source of the Marico river\, and popular with swimmers and divers. Our Saturday evening practice will be Expressive Movement\, which takes us through a full dance wave; from finding Presence\, Expressing what we notice in our embodied mind\, Releasing blocks and old patterns\, then moving to Dreaming and Integrating\, where our future might emerge in the moment. Later\, we can sit together at the open fire and watch the magnificent night sky. \nYour Facilitator:\nLucy Draper-Clarke has a doctorate in mindfulness and teacher education and loves to run retreats as well as support yoga teacher training schools. She has practised yoga for 20 years and taught yoga and mindfulness in Southern Africa since 2006\, while also offering embodied practices at Wits. While doing so\, she has been lucky enough to study with inspiring Buddhist mindfulness\, Vinyasa yoga teachers\, and Expressive Movement dance therapists. Her light-hearted and compassionate approach to teaching allows participants to explore their inner worlds through a joyful\, yet transformative practice. \nCost:\nIncludes accommodation\, all meals\, tea and snacks and facilitated moving and sitting meditation sessions. Cost is dependent on your choice of accommodation. The food is ovo-lacto vegetarian\, with vegan/gluten-free options available on request. It excludes any tips for staff. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Single-use of ensuite room (if space available):\n  R 3\,100\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom (only 3 available):\n  R 2\,900\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R 2\,700\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (sharing\, per person):\n  R 2\,500\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R 1\,900\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R 1\,700\n\n\n\n\nTo Book:\nClick on this link to book. \nA 50% deposit secures your place. This is non-refundable but is transferable to another TRC retreat. Do not let your inability to pay prevent you from attending. Contact Tara Rokpa Centre for scholarships\, payment options\, and volunteer trade opportunities. \nFor general retreat information about what to bring\, please click here. \nPhoto credit: National Trust\, UK \n 
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/imprinting-intentions-a-new-year-retreat/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Embodied meditation,Inquiry,Insight,Meditation,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Yoga
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20221125T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20221218T130000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20190222T183630Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220721T081945Z
UID:1640-1669399200-1671368400@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Beyond Violence with Dónal Creedon
DESCRIPTION:“The nature of mind is already peace.”\nThrangu Rinpoche \nOur world is on fire\, engulfed in endless conflict\, fear\, and violence. Violence and fear are everywhere at every level. According to Buddha dharma\, our consciousness is afflicted at its very core. The afflicted mind is a potent cocktail of resentment and confusion. It is from this unholy mix that all conflicts arise both individual and collective. \nYet\, it need not be so if we take time to listen\, reflect and meditate. \nThe question is how does the mind free itself of its accumulated violence\, cultural violence\, self-protective violence\, the violence of competition\, the violence of authority and obedience\, the violence of trying to be somebody\, the violence of trying to suppress and bully oneself in order to be non-violent? \nWhat to do?\nWe have to know who we are\, what we are\, where we are\, and what it means to be a human being beyond identities. We need to see the truth directly for ourselves. It involves looking into the shadow lands of the human psyche and as well rediscovering our true nature\, called Buddha nature or simply the natural state. As Thrangu Rinpoche says peace is already there. Silently waiting. \nConditions for joining the retreat \nThe minimum attendance is for 1 week. The entry dates are Friday 25 November or Saturday 3 December. \nThis is a Buddhist meditation retreat and particularly suitable for those with some knowledge and experience. However\, everyone is welcome. Each person should be committed to the program and leave personal demands and agendas aside. This is essential. Ethical conduct based on Buddhist precepts and consideration for others is assumed. Activities such as offering various therapies etc for money are not permitted however it is fine to help others if needed.\nIf 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 cost includes accommodation\, all ova-lacto meals from supper on the first night to lunch on the last day\, a supplement for airfares\, and an optional R60 environmental levy. The cost is also inclusive of a 7.5 % discount for 2 weeks and a 15 % discount for the full retreat.\nTRC members receive a further 10% discount if membership is paid up for 6 months prior to 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 8 nights\n 15 nights\n 22 nights\n\n\n  Single use of ensuite room (if space available):\n  R8\,300\n  R13\,600\n  R18\,000\n\n\n  Single use of twin/double room (if space available)\, shared bathroom:\n  R7\,900\n  R12\,900\n  R17\,000\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom (only 3 available):\n  R7\,500\n  R12\,200\n  R16\,000\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person):\n  R6\,800\n  R11\,000\n  R14\,400\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per person):\n  R5\,900\n  R9\,400\n  R12\,300\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R5\,000\n  R7\,900\n  R10\,300\n\n\n  Camping TRC Tent:\n  R5\,000\n  R7\,900\n  R10\,300\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R4\,200\n  R6\,500\n  R8\,400\n\n\n\n  \nTo Book\nPlease use our online booking form\, which can be completed easily on a phone or tablet. A 50% deposit will secure your choice of accommodation. \nTransport to/from TRC & Airport Shuttle\nEstimated dates of the airport shuttle (Extra return journeys are subject to demand). \nTo TRC: Fri 25 November\, leaving 12 pm at OR Tambo International \nTo TRC: Sat 3 December\, leaving 12 pm at OR Tambo International \nTo OR Tambo International: Sunday 18 December\, leaving TRC at 1 pm. \nThe cost for the return airport shuttle is estimated at R2000 per person. This is an extra cost\, and not included above\, and a 50% deposit is needed to book our place on the shuttle. \nTRC will help with carpooling where possible. It is also possible to get the InterCape bus from Park Station to Groot Marico (around R350) and TRC can arrange a lift to the Centre for R150. \nPlease ensure that flights arrive before 10 am\, to give you time to collect your luggage and pass through immigration. On the return trip\, the shuttle will depart TRC after lunch\, to arrive at ORT by 5.30 pm. Please book international flights to leave after 8 pm. \nFor more general retreat information\, please click here. Or email tararokpacentre@gmail.com for more info.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/dec-retreat-with-donal-creedon/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Inquiry,Meditation,Philosophy,Spirituality
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20220806T123000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20220809T140000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20220526T095049Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220608T165620Z
UID:3394-1659789000-1660053600@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Courage and Care - Women's Day Retreat
DESCRIPTION:with Lucy Draper-Clarke and Mammatli Thakhuli-Nzuza \nAt first glance\, courage and care may seem like opposites: one tough and strong\, the other soft and fluffy. Explore more deeply\, though\, and they intertwine as the mother archetype\, offering us access to feminine wisdom. From the clarity that arises in the face of compassion\, the greatest courage emerges. \nThis Women’s Day long weekend offers you practices to heal and hold\, replenish and reconnect with yourself and others. We will explore the healing arts of embodiment\, meditation\, and creativity\, which bring us back into the embrace of community. For centuries\, we have gathered in circles\, around the fireside\, to tell stories and sing\, to dance and find the sweetness of silence. In community\, we become fully human. \nThis precious time offers an opportunity to return to the wisdom of the body\, which can hold us steady in the present moment. Communities have long known that to come together and move in harmony allows for healing of the individual and the collective. Utilizing breath\, rhythmic movement\, and a direct sensory experience of the embodied mind\, we learn to regulate emotion\, and become a safe haven for ourselves\, for others and for the earth itself. \nBy working with somatic meditation practices\, including gentle yoga\, qi gong\, and dance\, we will return to this miraculous home of ours. Once the body feels settled\, the sitting practices of mindfulness and compassion will allow access to the inner world of the heart-mind. \n  \nYour Facilitators:\nDr Lucy Draper-Clarke is a retreat facilitator\, mindfulness mentor and researcher-practitioner in the fields of awareness and compassion. After obtaining a doctorate in mindfulness and teacher education\, she is now an Associate Researcher at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. With a focus on compassionate activism and somatic meditation\, she works with those engaged in social transformation and healing\, to alleviate stress\, increase resilience and cultivate wise\, compassionate action. She runs workshops and retreats around Southern Africa. As a practitioner with the Karma Kagyu School of Buddhism\, she attends regular meditation retreats to deepen her own practice. Nothing gives her more joy than supporting others to develop their own\, life-enhancing\, contemplative practices. \n  \nMammatli Thakhuli-Nzuza is a storyteller\, reflexive practice facilitator and an applied drama practitioner. She holds a Masters degree in Theatre in Education\, Communities and Social Contexts from Drama for Life at the University of the Witwatersrand. Her research area explores the tension between women’s personal well-being\, expectations and desires and the expectations imposed by cultural practices\, customs\, beliefs and norms. She facilitates community change processes that incorporate open dialogue\, deep listening and creative embodiment. As an accredited Community Capacity Enhancement (CCE) facilitator and trainer through the Nelson Mandela Foundation\, her work advocates for social development processes that are achievable\, sustainable and people centred. Her practice is situated at the intersection of theatre\, human rights and community building. \n  \nCost:\nThe costs include a facilitation fee\, accommodation\, a voluntary R60 environmental levy\, and all meals and tea break snacks from lunch on Saturday to lunch on Tuesday. It excludes staff tips. \nYou are welcome to arrive on Friday afternoon – an extra night’s cost is applicable. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  3 Nights\n  Extra       Night\n\n\n Single-use of ensuite room (if space available):\n  R4\,700\n  R750\n\n\n Single-use of twin/double room (if space available)\, shared   bathroom:\n  R4\,550\n  R700\n\n\n Single room with shared bathroom (only 3 available):\n  R4\,400\n  R650\n\n\n Shared Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person):\n  R4\,150\n  R560\n\n\n Shared Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per person):\n  R3\,800\n  R450\n\n\n Dormitory\n  R3\,500\n  R340\n\n\n Camping (own tent)\n  R3\,200\n  R240\n\n\n\n  \nA 10% discount for Drama for Life and TRC members. \nPlease do not let tight finances prevent you from coming – email us at tararokpacentre@gmail.com for options. \n  \nTo Book:\nPlease click here to fill in the user-friendly online booking form. \nA nonrefundable\, but transferrable deposit of 50% is required to confirm your space. \n  \nRetreat Schedule:\n  \n\n\n\n Saturday 6thAugust\n\n\n  11am -1pm\n  Participants arrive\n  Dining Hall\n\n\n  1pm\n  Lunch\n  Dining Hall\n\n\n  2.30pm\n  Welcome and Introduction\n\n\n\n  4pm\n  Workshop 1 Window of Presence / Healing Arts\n\n\n\n  6pm\n  Supper\n  Dining Hall\n\n\n  7pm\n  Somatic Yoga and the Body Scan\n  Octagon\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSunday 7thAugust\n\n\n  7.30am\n  Moving Meditation\n  Octagon\n\n\n  8am\n  Sitting Practice with Lucy\n  Octagon\n\n\n  8.30am\n  Breakfast in Silence\n  Dining Hall\n\n\n  9.30am\n  Workshop 2\n  Octagon\n\n\n  11am\n  Tea\n  Dining Hall\n\n\n  11.30am\n  Moving and Sitting Meditation\n  Octagon\n\n\n  1pm\n  Lunch\n  Dining Hall\n\n\n  2.30pm\n  Trip to the Eye or relaxation\n\n\n\n  6pm\n  Supper\n  Dining Hall\n\n\n  7.30pm\n  Yin Yoga\n  Octagon\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMonday 8thAugust\n\n\n  7.30am\n  Moving Meditation\n  Octagon\n\n\n  8am\n  Sitting Practice with Lucy\n  Octagon\n\n\n  8.30am\n  Breakfast in Silence\n  Dining Hall\n\n\n  9.30am\n  Workshop 3\n  Octagon\n\n\n  11am\n  Tea\n  Dining Hall\n\n\n  11.30am\n  Moving and Sitting Meditation\n  Octagon\n\n\n  1pm\n  Lunch\n  Dining Hall\n\n\n  2.30pm\n  Local walk or relaxation\n\n\n\n  6pm\n  Supper\n  Dining Hall\n\n\n  7.30pm\n  Expressive Movement and Fireside Gathering\n  Octagon\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Tuesday 9th August\n\n\n  7am\n  Hike to the Waterfall \nReflection Practice\n Meet in Dining Hall\n\n\n  11am\n  Brunch\n  Dining Hall\n\n\n  12 noon\n  Closing circle\n  Octagon\n\n\n  12.30pm\n  Retreat ends\n  Dining Hall\n\n\n  12.30pm\n  Shop open\n  Office
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/courage-care/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:compassion,Embodied meditation,Inquiry,Meditation,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness,Yoga
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Grass-curl-copy.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20220729T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20220731T140000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20220523T181754Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220523T181754Z
UID:3381-1659117600-1659276000@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Befriending Your Demons
DESCRIPTION:Working with difficult emotions in order to resolve inner conflicts. \n  \nAre you struggling with any of the following: \n\nFear\nAnger\nDepression\nAnxiety\nAn eating disorder\nDifficult relationships\nSelf-hatred\,\nAddiction\nAnd the list goes on…\n\nThe problem is that the harder we fight our demons\, the stronger they become. If we want to liberate ourselves from that fight once and for all\, we must reverse our approach. \nIn this retreat\, we will be learning to work with difficult emotions using a powerful strategy that will enable us to transform our negative emotions\, relationships\, fears\, illnesses\, and self-defeating patterns. We will also learn to cope with our inner enemies that undermine our best intentions. \nOur toolbox will consist of art materials such as paint\, pencils\, clay and collages\, relaxation\, meditation\, mindful movement\, and gentle yoga. \n  \nYour Facilitator:\nVera Hey is a mindfulness practitioner and an experienced mindfulness facilitator. She uses the insight and awareness gained from her mindfulness practice in her personal life and in her career as a psychological counselor. She is a student of Rob Nairn\, international Mindfulness and Meditation teacher\, and has completed his facilitator training course. \n  \nCost:\nThese costs cover all meals from Friday supper to lunch on Sunday. They include a facilitator fee and a voluntary R60 environmental fee. It does exclude staff tips and an R50 contribution for art materials. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R1300\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R1500\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per   person):\n  R1800\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per   person):\n  R2000\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom (only 3   available):\n  R2200\n\n\n  Single-use of en suite room (if space available):\n  R2400\n\n\n\n  \nReserve your place:\nTo book\, please fill in the online booking form. \nA 50% deposit confirms your booking. The deposit is not refundable but is transferrable to another retreat or person.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/befriending-your-demons/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:compassion,Course,Embodied meditation,Inquiry,Mindful Movement,Mindfulness
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/IMG-20220523-WA0009-1-1-rotated.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20220401T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20220403T130000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20210210T161826Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220212T103257Z
UID:2858-1648836000-1648990800@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:A Mindful Break: Relaxing and getting in touch
DESCRIPTION:with Vera Hey \nA mindful weekend of taking a break\, relaxing\, and getting in touch with ourselves and our needs. \nIn these times of uncertainty\, the levels of stress and anxiety are particularly high for all of us. Therefore it is more important than ever to know how to enable ourselves to remain calm and clear and to enhance our ability to cope with challenges that are present. \nSo this weekend we shall focus on having a break from our busy lives\, relaxing and getting in touch with ourselves and our needs through being quiet and mindful\, meditating\, deep breathing\, mindful movement\, walking in nature\, and other tools from the mindfulness toolbox. \nThis weekend is suitable for beginners; no previous meditation experience is required. \nCost:\nThe cost includes accommodation\, meals\, and facilitation fee. It excludes staff tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R1200\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R1400\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per person):\n  R1700\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person):\n  R1900\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom (only 3 available):\n  R2100\n\n\n  Single-use of ensuite room (if space available):\n  R2300\n\n\n\nTo Book:\nClick here to book. A 50% deposit will confirm your booking. \nYour facilitator:\n\n\nVera Hey is a mindfulness practitioner and an experienced mindfulness facilitator. She uses the insight and awareness gained from her mindfulness practice in her personal life and in her career as a psychological counselor. She is a student of Rob Nairn\, international Mindfulness and Meditation teacher\, and has completed his facilitator training course.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/a-mindful-weekend/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:compassion,Inquiry,Mindfulness,Relaxing
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/4aa710_c3fb6fa3be6e492bbfc293414b8b0890_mv2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20220318T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20220321T140000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20220111T160004Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220116T170941Z
UID:3128-1647626400-1647871200@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Loving Awareness
DESCRIPTION:with Lucy Draper-Clarke \nAs you step into this new year\, what needs your loving awareness? A relationship\, a project\,\nyour work\, home\, or family? You may be holding sorrow for the past or anxiety about the\nfuture. The best place to start is bringing caring attention to your own body\, heart\, and mind.\nTime away\, and time in\, can return you to the ease and joy of the present moment. \nThis 3-night retreat is an invitation to reflect and refocus\, as we reimagine a world that is\nbuilt on an ethic of care. Lucy will guide you through embodied awareness practices\, including yoga\, qi gong\, and expressive movement\, to prepare the heart-mind for meditation. \n  \n\n  \nThen we’ll sit together and cultivate the innate qualities of being human – love\, compassion\, joy\, and equanimity. Finally\, you can explore how to integrate these experiences into daily life. \nPrevious retreat participants had this to say about Lucy: \n“Lucy brings to mindful movement her special warmth and generosity\, together with the\nqualities of a very skilled teacher. She creates an environment of complete kindness and\ngentleness which in turn enables both the beginner and the more experienced to feel trulywelcome.” Carolyn Pollack \n“Lucy is a warm\, wise\, and wonderful teacher\, embodying fully the heart-mind connections she gently encourages in others. What she offers comes directly from her heart\, enabling her to provide exactly what is needed spontaneously in the moment.” Joanna Monaghan \nCost\nThe costs include the facilitation fee\, accommodation\, a voluntary R60 environmental levy\, and all meals and tea break snacks from supper on the day of your arrival\, until lunch on the day of departure. It excludes staff tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n   3 Nights\n   2 Nights\n\n\n  Single-use of ensuite room (if space available):\n    R4\,000\n    R3\,100\n\n\n  Single-use of twin/double room\, shared   bathroom:\n    R3\,800\n    R3\,000\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom (only 3 available):\n    R3\,700\n    R2\,900\n\n\n  Shared Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person):\n    R3\,400\n    R2\,700\n\n\n  Shared Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per person):\n    R3\,000\n    R2\,400\n\n\n  Dormitory\n    R2\,700\n    R2\,200\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n    R2\,400\n    R2\,000\n\n\n\nPlease do not let tight finances prevent you from coming – email us at tararokpacentre@gmail.com. \nBookings\nPlease click here to fill in the user-friendly online booking form. \nA nonrefundable\, but transferrable deposit of 50% is required to confirm your space. \nYour facilitator\nLucy Draper-Clarke has a doctorate in mindfulness and teacher education and loves to run retreats as well as support yoga teacher training schools. She has practised yoga for 20 years and taught yoga and mindfulness in Southern Africa since 2006\, while also offering embodied practices at Wits. While doing so\, she has been lucky enough to study with inspiring Buddhist mindfulness\, Vinyasa yoga teachers\, and Expressive Movement dance therapists. Her light-hearted and compassionate approach to teaching allows participants to explore their inner worlds through a joyful\, yet transformative practice. \n  \n 
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/loving-awareness/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:compassion,Embodied meditation,Food,Fun,Inquiry,Insight,Mindfulness,Music and Rythm,Relaxing,Yoga
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/greg-rakozy-oMpAz-DN-9I-unsplash.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Heart-Mind":MAILTO:lucyheartmind@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20211215T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20211219T180000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20211003T152027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20211003T152524Z
UID:3039-1639591200-1639936800@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Living Compassionately in Challenging Times
DESCRIPTION:If we wish to find lasting happiness\, we need to look at how to tame the mind and uncover our compassionate nature. We are so lucky to still be able to access the wisdom of ancient Tibetan masters\, whose advice is very relevant in today’s degenerate times. The text The Eight verses for Training the Mind by Langri Tangpa points to how to tame our minds and work compassionately with others. \n“Some people recite the Eight Verses only as a prayer or aspiration\, but that was not Geshe Langri Thangpa’s intention. He envisioned the text being used as a handbook for the practice of mind training. In these verses\, he tells us precisely what we have to do.” Quote from HH 17th Karmapa. \nAlan will guide us through this text\, and we will look at various commentaries and do guided meditations associated with the text. \nDuring this compassion-based retreat\, Pippa will offer daily sessions of voluntary attendance of: \n\nExercises based on compassion\, taken from the Tara Rokpa Therapy Process. This is a healing process steered by the late Akong Rinpoche and a team of western doctors and therapists which amalgamates the ancient wisdom of Tibetan Healing with Western Therapies.\nGentle Movement based on restorative yoga\, and gentle somatics. These exercises can be done by anyone\, and are adaptable to anyone interested in exploring the inward body/mind connections.\n\nThere will also be time to do your own thing\, take walks\, star-gaze around the campfire\, swim\, and relax. \nFacilitators:\nAlan 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  \nPippa Cope has been involved with the Tara Rokpa Therapy process for over 20 years and has offered courses both in SA \, Zimbabwe and Canada. She has also been involved with yoga for over 20 years. Pippa is certified by an\ninternationally acclaimed Yoga teacher -Donna Fahri \, and has followed Somatic movement since being introduced to it over 4 years ago. \n  \nCosts:\nThis is a dana-based retreat\, and the costs include meals\, teas\, and accommodation. It excludes a monetary offering for the facilitators and staff tips. Please contact us if you have financial constraints\, but would like to attend. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person):\n R2900\n\n\n Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per person):\n R2500\n\n\n Single room with shared bathroom (only 3 available):\n R3300\n\n\n Single use of twin/double room (if space available)\, shared  bathroom:\n R3500\n\n\n Single use of ensuite room (if space available):\n R3700\n\n\n Single en suite room\n R3500\n\n\n Dormitory\n R2000\n\n\n Camping (own tent)\n R1600\n\n\n\n  \nTo Book:\nPlease fill in the online booking form here. \nA 50 % deposit\, non-refundable\, but transferrable\, will secure the accommodation of your choice.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/living-compassionately-in-challenging-times/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Buddhism,compassion,Dharma,Fun,Inquiry,Meditation,Mindfulness,Relaxing,Tara Rokpa Therapy,Walking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/heart-700141_1280-1024x683-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20211119T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20211121T140000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20210912T201637Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20210912T202408Z
UID:3026-1637344800-1637503200@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Contemplative Photography
DESCRIPTION:Join Martin for a weekend exploring photography as part of a contemplative practice. Develop strategies to express yourself with a camera and discover what it is you wish to express. From a cell phone to a large format film camera\, any imaging device is welcome.\n\nThe retreat will not be focused on the technical aspects of photography but Martin will do his best to help with any technical challenges you may be having.\n\nThere will be time for relaxation\, reflection\, meditation\, and exploring the natural surroundings.\n\n\nFacilitator:\n\n\nMartin Kristiansen has been involved in photography since 1976 and is still earning a living as a photographer. Buddhism has directed his photography and life since 2001.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n  \n\nCosts:\nThis retreat is a dana based retreat – the costs are for your choice of accommodation and meals\, and includes a (voluntary environmental levy of R60). Dana (an offering to the facilitator) and staff tips are extra.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n R800\n\n\n  Dormitory\n R1000\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per   person):\n R1300\n\n\n Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per   person):\n R1500\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom (only 3   available):\n R1700\n\n\n  Single-use of ensuite room (if space available):\n R1900\n\n\n\n\n\nTo Book:\nClick here to go to our online booking form.\nA 50% deposit will confirm the accommodation of your choice.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/contemplative-photography/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Course,Inquiry,Mindfulness,Photography,Relaxing
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DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20210416T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20210418T140000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20210307T144303Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20210310T084721Z
UID:2910-1618596000-1618754400@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:Insight Retreat : Working Creatively with Negative Emotions - Choden
DESCRIPTION:Many people relentlessly battle with their emotions and end up leading conflicted and unhappy lives. But this does not have to be the case. In Buddhism the negative emotions are described as ‘mind poisons’\, but the poison contains hidden gold.\nThis retreat will focus on working creatively with the negative emotions that afflict us. It will be drawn from the Tibetan Buddhist approach of learning to recognise and express the wisdom nature of our emotions. The view here is that our emotions are a source of vitality that can enliven and enrich our lives. The key is how we relate to them: either they can fuel an inner storm of conflict and suffering or they can fuel a path of inner abundance and waking up.\nChoden will offer a path to working with the afflictive emotions of fear\, anger\, desire\, jealousy\, pride and ignorance. These are like the primary colours of our emotional life which\, when combined\, result in the rich variety of emotions we feel.\nThe path of practice will be to recognise when these emotions are triggered and how they feel within us. This is a mindfulness skill. Next\, we turn to look at the mind that is afflicted by anger or desire\, for example\, and see its empty and insubstantial nature. This is a key insight skill. We then apply the antidote of compassion drawn from the 4 Immeasurable Qualities (loving kindness\, compassion\, sympathetic joy and equanimity). Finally we learn to rest ‘in the midst of our experience’ and allow the wisdom energy to integrate within our being.\nThe retreat will involve teachings and guided practices from Choden\, as well as sharing and inquiry and some periods of silent sitting. \nCost:\nThe cost includes accommodation\, meals\, a supplement to cover travel costs\, and an R60 optional environmental levy. Excluded are dana and staff tips. \nDana is an offering to the facilitator as Dharma teachers aren’t renumerated\, but dana would be appreciated. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Camping (own tent)\n  R900\n\n\n  Dormitory\n  R1100\n\n\n  Twin/double room with shared bathroom (per person):\n  R1400\n\n\n  Twin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person):\n  R1600\n\n\n  Single room with shared bathroom (only 3 available):\n  R1800\n\n\n  Single use of ensuite room (if space available):\n  R2000\n\n\n\nTo book:\nTo book\, please click here. \nA 50% deposit\, non-refundable\, but transferrable\, will secure the accommodation of your choice. \nAbout Choden:\nA monk within the Karma Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism\, Choden (aka Sean Mc Govern) completed a three-year\, three-month retreat in 1997 and has been a practicing Buddhist since 1985. He is originally from South Africa where he trained as a lawyer and learned meditation under the guidance of Rob Nairn\, an internationally renowned Buddhist teacher. He is now involved in developing secular mindfulness and compassion programmes drawing upon the wisdom and methods of the Buddhist tradition\, as well as contemporary insights from psychology and neuroscience. He is an honorary fellow of the University of Aberdeen and teaches on their Postgraduate Study Programme in Mindfulness (MSc) that is the first of its kind to include compassion in its curriculum. He co-wrote a book with Paul Gilbert in 2013\, entitled Mindful Compassion that explores the interface between Buddhist and Evolutionary approaches to compassion training. He is also the co-author of two other books: Mindfulness Based Living Course (2018) and From Mindfulness to Insight (2019). In 2016 he completed a one-year retreat focused on the foundation practices of Tibetan Buddhism.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/insight-retreat-working-creatively-with-negative-emotions-with-choden/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma,Inquiry,Insight,Meditation,Mindfulness,Spirituality,Tibetan Buddhism
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DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20210219T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20210221T140000
DTSTAMP:20260501T144644
CREATED:20201212T151426Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20210116T140044Z
UID:2715-1613757600-1613916000@tararokpacentre.co.za
SUMMARY:New Year No Intentions Retreat
DESCRIPTION:with Lucy Draper-Clarke\n\n\n\n\n“The best laid schemes of mice and men\n\n\nOften go awry\,\n\n\nAnd leave us nought but grief and pain\,\n\n\nFor promised joy!\n\n\nRobert Burns\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs 2020 showed us\, we have entered a time of disruption. How many of us set goals and intentions for the new year\, and then had to take a swift left turn?\n\n\n\n\n\nFor 2021\, we will explore the idea of “No Intention”. Instead of developing a wish for the future\, and imagining specific outcomes\, we will learn how to create the conditions for the future to emerge in the present moment. This requires a shift from the head to the body and heart; a shift from the logical mind to the more mysterious\, creative and intuitive self. Goals and intentions tend to be made from our conscious mind but\, like the hippo\, there is far more under the water than we can see. The unconscious mind is constantly gathering information\, and our invitation is to explore this vast capacity to bring our dreams into reality.\n\n\n\n\n\nFind out how to create the conditions for clarity to arise\, through developing a daily meditation practice. This might be a moving or sitting meditation\, journalling\, contemplation or reflection. We will learn how to ensure that our daily practice becomes the one non-negotiable part of our life. Increasing our times of solitude and quiet enhances our ability to receive the guidance that helps us make subtle adjustments to our life\, so that we live in greater alignment and joy.\n\n\n\n\n\nProgramme:\n\n\nAfter the first evening of introductions and grounding practices\, we will wake up to gentle moving and sitting meditation sessions in the Octagon\, followed by healthy breakfast in the open dining area. There will then be an extended ‘No Intention’ workshop before tucking into a filling vegetarian lunch. Participants can either rest in the afternoon or visit the nearby waterfall in Tara’s Valley\, or die Oog – the Eye. This is the 14m deep source of the Marico river\, and popular with swimmers and divers. Our Saturday evening practice will be Expressive Movement\, which takes us through a full dance wave; from finding Presence\, Expressing what we notice in our embodied mind\, Releasing blocks and old patterns\, then moving to Dreaming and Integrating\, where our future might emerge in the moment. Later\, we can sit together at the open fire and watch the magnificent night sky.\n\n\n\nCost:\n\n\nIncludes accommodation\, all meals\, tea\, and snacks\, and facilitated moving and sitting meditation sessions. Cost is dependent on your choice of accommodation. The food is ovo-lacto vegetarian\, with vegan/gluten-free options available on request.\n\n\n\n\n\n2-night retreat:\n\n\nSingle room with shared bathroom (only 3 available): R3200\n\n\nTwin/double room with en suite bathroom (per person): R3000\n\n\nTwin/double room with shared bathroom (per person): R2800\n\n\nDormitory (per person): R2550\n\n\nCamping (own tent & bedding): R2350\n\n\nSingle-use of twin rooms is also available on request\, at a supplementary cost.\n\n\n\n\n\nBookings:\n\nClick on this link to book.\n\n\n\n\n\nA 50% deposit secures your place. This is non-refundable but is transferable to another TRC retreat. Do not let your inability to pay prevent you from attending. Contact Tara Rokpa Centre for scholarships\, payment options\, and volunteer trade opportunities.\n\n\n\n\n\nFor general retreat information about what to bring\, please click here.\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Facilitator:\n\n\n\nLucy Draper-Clarke has a doctorate in mindfulness and teacher education and loves to run retreats as well as support yoga teacher training schools. She has practised yoga for 20 years and taught yoga and mindfulness in Southern Africa since 2006\, while also offering embodied practices at Wits. While doing so\, she has been lucky enough to study with inspiring Buddhist mindfulness\, Vinyasa yoga teachers\, and Expressive Movement dance therapists. Her light-hearted and compassionate approach to teaching allows participants to explore their inner worlds through a joyful\, yet transformative practice.
URL:https://tararokpacentre.co.za/event/new-year-no-intentions-retreat/
LOCATION:Tara Rokpa Centre\, Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico District\, North West Province\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Inquiry,Meditation,Mindfulness,Yoga
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