The Practice of Tonglen
How to Open our Hearts and Change our World, One Breath at a Time
This retreat is of particular interest to those who are familiar with meditation and the practice of loving-kindness and who wish to deepen their practice.
Tonglen lies at the very heart of training in compassion in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Literally translated ’tonglen’ means ‘giving and receiving’. Tonglen is one of the most powerful compassion meditations to unblock our natural capacity for love. It frees our innate healing energies of wisdom and compassion to transform ourselves and the world we live in.
Using the medium of the breath, the practice of Tonglen offers us a way in which we can actively develop fearless compassion and directly work with suffering. Kirsten DeLeo will introduce and guide the practice and explore the questions that arise when we engage in the practice.
Prerequisite
We request that anyone wishing to attend this retreat has a foundation in the practices of loving-kindness and meditation either at Dzogchen Beara or elsewhere.
What to expect
- short talks
- guided meditation sessions
- discussions groups
- periods of silence
- gentle movement exercises (suitable for everyone)
- time for rest and relaxation
What people say about Tonglen
“Kirsten totally embodies all that she teaches. I’m coming away a lighter, more empowered individual with the wonderful tool of Tonglen“.
– Eleanor
“The Tonglen retreat was just what I needed at this moment of my life to help me process becoming a parent and also the death of a friend. It’s a very practical and helpful practice to help with the challenges of daily life. Thank you all.”
– Orla
“I am leaving with a happy, open heart, which will no doubt be challenged but I have been given a tool to practice with and I am grateful.”
– Áine
Location
The retreat will be held in our Temple, which is a modern example of a traditional Tibetan monastery designed to be an inspiring symbol of the Buddha’s teachings for our times.
Meals
Delicious two course vegetarian lunches, with soup and bread in the evenings. Cooked with love at Dzogchen Beara, using homegrown and organic ingredients whenever possible. Tea and coffee.
Accommodation
Limited accommodation is available on-site and can be viewed and booked as you register. Early booking advised!
You can also choose to stay in local accommodation. There is whole range of options available.
Kirsten DeLeo
Kirsten DeLeo has practised Tibetan Buddhism for over thirty years, including a traditional three-year retreat. She teaches meditation and compassion with clarity, warmth and a practical, approachable style. She is the author of Present Through the End: A Caring Companion’s Guide for Accompanying the Dying, an award-winning book offering gentle support to those sitting with a dying loved one. As lead faculty of the Authentic Presence training programme, she has trained carers and healthcare professionals across Europe and North America in contemplative approaches to end-of-life care. She currently teaches Buddhist chaplaincy and spiritual care in healthcare at Dharmagate Buddhist College in Budapest. Kirsten lives in West Cork and regularly offers retreats here at Dzogchen Beara. She also supports guests in one-to-one sessions at the Spiritual Care Centre. To find out more about Kirsten, visit: kirstendeleo.com