Refuge: Awaken Within – 14-16 February 2025 – Rotterdam
Refuge: Awaken Within
Vipassana meditation & Tibetain yoga with Lama Jigme Namgyal
Taking Refuge and Prostration Practices
For those beginning their journey in Tibetan Buddhism, taking refuge and practicing prostrations are essential steps to establishing a solid foundation for spiritual growth. These practices are part of Ngöndro, the preparatory practices in Tibetan Buddhism, which cleanse and prepare the mind and body for more advanced meditation and teachings.
Taking Refuge:
This practice involves dedicating oneself to the path of enlightenment by seeking guidance from the Buddha, the Dharma (teachings), and the Sangha (community). It serves as an anchor, providing clarity and direction for all future spiritual practices. By taking refuge, one connects with a wisdom tradition spanning centuries that offers support and inspiration.
In addition, Lama Jigmé will be giving Dharma names during this weekend, which marks an important milestone in your spiritual path. Receiving a Dharma name is not just a formality, but a profound commitment. It symbolizes your commitment to walk the path of wisdom and compassion and serves as a reminder of your personal vow to cultivate these qualities in your life. We ask that you do not take this step lightly, as it is a meaningful and solemn commitment that deepens your connection to the teachings and strengthens your spiritual commitment.
Prostrations:
As part of Ngöndro, prostrations serve to holistically cleanse the subtle body, helping to bring greater balance and clarity to both mind and body. Although physically challenging, they purify negative karma, build inner strength, and promote humility. This practice encourages self-reflection, reduces ego-driven tendencies, and opens the heart to compassion. Through the physical movement of prostrations, energy flows in a way that clears blockages, bringing a sense of balance and peace to the practitioner’s life.
Together, these practices offer a meaningful beginning to your spiritual journey. They create the right conditions for meditation, insight, and the development of peace and wisdom. Practicing them consistently and with an open heart can lead to personal transformation and lasting inner harmony.
The Study Weekend
During this weekend you will be introduced to Vipassana, refuge and prostration under the guidance of Lama Jigmé. The lessons are alternated with the opportunity to ask questions. The program can be followed both physically and online. The sessions are open to everyone, regardless of prior knowledge of Buddhism or religious background. Everyone who is interested in this subject is welcome.
Online attendance is possible, and recordings are available for 1 month, especially for those who cannot attend that weekend.
During this weekend, regular students of PCL and Lama Jigmé have the opportunity to apply for a Dharma name. For more information, please contact khandrola@phuntsokcholing.org.
Practical information:
Location: Phuntsok Chö Ling, Oostkousdijk 17B, 3024 CL Rotterdam
Online: Online participation is also possible. You will receive the link immediately after registration.
Times: February 14 19:30 – 21:00, February 15+16 09:30 – 13:00
Lunch: Coffee, tea & snack, lunch not included.
Language: English
Price: See the options when registering