We may have the deep aspiration to be more compassionate, more patient, more genuinely present with the people in our lives. But what does it take to turn that aspiration into something real?
Buddhism’s answer is diligence. This isn’t relentless self-pressure but joyful effort: a light but steady energy that keeps us showing up even when distraction or laziness pull us away. Diligence turns what we understand into how we actually live, rather than something we only know in our heads.
Diligence has a natural partner in discipline, which here doesn’t mean rules imposed from outside. It means learning to see clearly how our actions affect ourselves and others, and choosing, again and again, not to cause harm. Diligence sustains that choice, not as duty, but as a source of genuine vitality and joy.
Together, these two qualities offer a workable framework for real, lasting change: clarity about what matters, and the energy to keep choosing it, for our own benefit and everyone around us.
Join Verena Pfeiffer for an immersive weekend exploring diligence and discipline, two of the six paramitas, or “perfections,” central to Mahayana Buddhism.
Who is this for?
All are welcome, whether you are a beginner on the Buddhist path, or an experienced dharma practitioner.
Meals
Vegetarian lunches and light evening meals are provided. The cost is included in your fee.
Accommodation
Limited accommodation is available on-site and can be viewed and booked as you register. Early booking advised! A list of hostels, B&B’s, self-catering accommodation and hotels in the local area is available here.
Verena Pfeiffer
Verena Pfeiffer is from Germany and has been a student of Buddhism since 2005. She attended Rigpa’s 2006–2009 Three Year Retreat and has been studying at Rigpa Shedra East in Pharping, Nepal under the guidance of Khenchen Namdrol since 2007.
Verena regularly helps to lead teaching retreats. She has recently begun teaching at the Rigpa Shedra, using Khenpo Kunpal’s commentary on the Bodhicharyavatara. Verena lives in the Netherlands with her partner and their much-adored dog.