Meditation Challenge
«Beyond Pain»
Part 1 The Introductory Retreat
13. April 2023
SA 10:00 am - 3:30 pm
with Gen Kelsang Devi
Each of us wishes to be permanently free from pain and problems, whether physical or mental. Buddha explained that our sufferings arise from negative inner attitudes such as anger, attachment, jealousy, and ignorance. However, he also presented practical solutions to liberate ourselves from these issues - through the joyful mind of renunciation. Although renunciation may not seem attractive at first glance, upon closer understanding, it brings us freedom, joy, and even full enlightenment, known as “Nirvana”.
The meditation challenge begins with the Urban Retreat on the topic “Free from Pain”. Gen Devi will explain the powerful mind of renunciation and demonstrate how much freedom and joy we can experience through this positive attitude.
Information about the "Free from Pain" Meditation Challenge Part 1 & 2 can be found here.
Price
CHF 60
Language
English with German translation
Place
KMC Switzerland
What to expect
During this starter retreat you can expect three retreat sessions. These include guided meditations and explanations on the topic. At the beginning of each session, a short Buddhist prayer will be played in preparation for the meditation. At the end there will be time to ask questions about the meditations.
During the breaks, there is time for walks and for exchanges with other course participants. In addition, a vegan, vegetarian meal will be offered during the lunch break.
The Teacher
Gen Kelsang Devi is the Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Center Switzerland and Kailash International Retreat Center. She is a modern Buddhist nun and very experienced teacher of the New Kadampa Tradition, who has been engaged in the study and practice of Kadampa Buddhism for more than twenty years under the guidance of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche. During this time Gen Devi herself has been on silent retreats for extended periods and has also led a large number of group retreats ranging from several days to several months.
Gen Devi’s experience makes her teachings and guidance in retreats very powerful, clear and practical. Her joyful warmth and humour make them accessible to everyone.
Course Information
Price
Participation on site:
CHF 60
25% reduction for AHV/IV and students
Timetable
10:00–11:15am | 1. Retreat Session
12:00 am–1:00 pm | 2 Retreat Session
13:00pm | Lunch Break
2:30–3:30 pm | 3 Retreat Session
Lunch
A vegan lunch will be provided during the lunch break for CHF 15. Please book the lunch option on the booking form if you would like to eat with us.
Live Stream
The live stream option for this event is only available with a centre membership. Find out more here
Registration & Payment
Payment for attendance on site can be made in advance via credit card/paypal or also on site (cash/credit card)
Language
In English with German translation
Place
This event takes place at Kadampa Meditation Center Switzerland (KMC), Mirabellenstrasse 1, 8048 Zürich Altstetten
Frequently asked questions
Can people attend our courses even if they are not Buddhists?
Yes - Everyone is welcome at Kadampa Meditation Center Switzerland. No one is excluded, no matter what your background or beliefs are. The methods and practices taught here are suitable for everyone, no matter how much experience you have.
Do I have to wear certain clothes to attend the events at the center?
No - Please come as you are. At KMC Switzerland, chairs and meditation cushions are provided for seating. If you like to sit on the cushion, we recommend that you wear comfortable clothing. Traditionally you will be asked to take off your shoes before entering the meditation room. We have floor heating and socks if needed.
Do I need meditation experience to participate?
No - Many people who come to our events have little or no experience. It doesn't matter if you have tried to meditate before without much success. Everyone finds meditation challenging in the beginning because our mind is naturally very busy. Kadampa Meditation Center is a perfect place to train in meditation.
Is the center also accessible by wheelchair?
Yes - Our meditation room is at ground level and we lay out ramps for the few steps we have.
