What Truly Brings Happiness
Practical Buddhist Wisdom for Daily Life
Sat–Sun
18–19 October 2025
Sat 10:00–16:00 pm
Sun 10:00–13:00 pm
with Gen Kelsang Dema
What truly makes us happy – not just for a moment, but in a deeper, lasting way?
In this retreat, we will explore the timeless advice of the great Buddhist master Atisha (982–1054), who is regarded as the founder of the Kadampa tradition. His famous collection, “Advice from the Heart,” contains brief yet powerful wisdom showing how we can sincerely bring happiness to ourselves and others — through a clear mind, compassion, and inner wisdom.
These teachings, which are about a thousand years old, remain remarkably relevant today, helping us deal with everyday problems and inner struggles.
Let yourself be deeply inspired by Atisha’s words during this weekend, and learn through guided meditations and explanations how to apply these insights directly in your daily life. When we sincerely put these teachings into practice, we naturally develop the heart of a Bodhisattva — a compassionate being who is loved and respected by all.
Price
CHF 90
Language
English with German translation
Place
at KMC Switzerland
What to expect
On this retreat you can expect various 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.
During the breaks, there is time for walks and for exchanges with other participants. In addition, a vegan and vegetarian meal will be offered during the lunch break.
The Teacher
Gen Kelsang Dema is the Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditationszentrum Basel.
She is a modern Buddhist nun and a very experienced teacher of the New Kadampa Tradition who has been studying and practicing Kadampa Buddhism for 25 years under the guidance of venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche.
Because of her experience, Gen Dema’s teachings are powerful, clear and profound. It is her greatest joy to accompany others on the inner path to happiness and freedom. It is their greatest wish that everyone learns to lead themselves to their own source of joy and bliss.
Course Information
Price
CHF 90 (whole course)
CHF 60 (only Saturday)
CHF 35 (only Sunday)
CHF 15 (lunch)
CHF 25 (accommodation incl. breakfast)
25% reduction for AHV/IV and students
Timetable
Saturday 18 October 2025
10:00–11:15 am | Retreat Session 1
11:45–13:00 pm | Retreat Session 2
13:00pm | Lunch Break
14:30–16:00 Uhr | Retreat Session 3
Sunday 19 October 2025
10:00–11:15 am | Retreat Session 4
11:45–13:00 pm | Retreat Session 5
Live Stream
The live stream option for this event is only available with a centre membership. Find out more here
Language
In English with German translation
Place
This event is taking place at Kadampa Meditationszentrum Schweiz (KMC), Mirabellenstrasse 1, 8048 Zürich-Altstetten statt
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.
