Ripa Ladrang

'Discovery' Weekends : Come Garden with Us
2017-03-04 - 2017-03-05 | The Ripa International Center (RIC), Hilfigweg 10, CH – 3172 Niederwangen, Bern, Switzerland
with Nadya Grau, our garden fairy
Discover the Center and its volunteers on an active and collaborative day. We roll up our sleeves and participate in seasonal work while getting to know each other.
Meet at 10am.
4/5 March *
Pruning trees and shrubs
22/23 April *
Preparing the garden for spring
We are pleased to offer lunch to participants.
By registration: nadyafleur@gmx.ch
* Changes possible depending upon the weather

Losar Festivities
2017-02-25 - 2017-02-26 | The Ripa International Center (RIC), Hilfigweg 10, CH – 3172 Niederwangen, Bern, Switzerland
With Lama Tenzin Phuntsok

On the occasion of the New Tibetan Year, we will gather to purify and dissipate negative energies and influences from the past year and be ready to welcome the new year. Celebration of Losar jointly with members of the Tibetan community through the traditional smoke offering. (Losar is on Monday, February 27th.)

About the Teacher

Lama Tenzin Phuntsok
Lama Tenzin Phuntsok was born in 1970 in Orissa, (India). When he was 14 years old he was admitted to Rigon Thupten Mindolling monastery, where he spent twenty full years. In the beginning, under the kind and inspiring guidance of … More →

The Four Foundations of Mindfulness
2017-02-17 - 2017-02-19 | Ripa International Center, Hilfligweg 10 CH-3172, Bern, Switzerland
This weekend will enable participants to delve into the origins of Mindfulness, as defined and taught within the tradition of Buddhist psychology, with ‘The Four Foundations of Mindfulness.’
With Geneviève Hamelet, instructor of MBSR and President for the Association for the Development of Mindfulness (ADM) in France.
=>Register
Full Awareness Workshop at the RIC – February 2016
With the emergence of “full consciousness” programs, such as MBSR and MBCT, it may be particularly beneficial to dive into the source of Full Consciousness as it is defined and transmitted within the tradition of Buddhist psychology, with “The Four Bases of Attention,” or “Mahasatipathana Sutta,” the Great Discourse of the Buddha on the Establishment of Full Consciousness.
If these teachings and practices from the Sutras are still so striking for our modern world, it is because it appeals to the universality of our humanity, whatever the epoch, the culture or the spiritual tradition to which we belong .
Indeed, the Buddhist approach is a holistic approach to being in its philosophical and psychological aspects, in conjunction with religious practices.
These four areas of exploration consist of a real investigation of the nature of reality, starting from the body to gradually penetrate the nature of phenomena.
These two days will be devoted to study and practice, focusing on the direct experience of this natural quality of attentive presence or Full Consciousness, through the four areas of exploration that are: body, feelings, mental states, and phenomena.
Geneviève Hamelet
She teaches meditation at the Tarab Institute, where she graduated in 2005 from Semrig Thablam Mawa (STM) in “Internal Science of the Spirit and UD Phenomena,” an approach to Buddhist psychology, created by Tarab Tulku Rinpoche and Lene Handberg, to promote the universality of ancient Indo-Tibetan spiritual wisdom in the modern world.
She is also a Certified MBSR instructor (Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Program), trained at CFM-UMass Medical school, where she is also instructor. She was also trained in MBCT in 2008.
She has been a member of the selection and organizing committee of ESRI 2016: “European Summer Research Institute” of Mind & Life Europe, and participates in the FBT CA to organize visits and teachings of the Dalai Lama in France.
She has been interpreting for 15 years many teachers of meditation of different traditions, such as Akincano, Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche, Jon Kabat-Zinn, Jack Kornfield, Tara Brach, Frank Ostaseski, Bob Stahl, Ajahn Sucitto and Rebecca Crane.

Vipassana meditation retreat in full silence
2016-12-26 16:00 - 2017-01-01 10:00 (America/New_York) | Ripa International Center, Hilfligweg 10 CH-3172, Bern, Switzerland
With Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche
Approaching emptiness and the nature of reality
The experience of emptiness is one of the most puzzling aspects of Buddha’s teachings; while we can intuitively relate to the truth of impermanence to some extent, it is difficult for most of us to understand the notion of emptiness which is often likened to a big vacuum or some sort of state of deprivation; yet, according to Buddha’s teachings, the experience of emptiness plays a central role in liberating beings from pain and suffering.
During this end-of-year retreat, Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoché will guide participants into exploring the experience of emptiness as the key insight into transforming our lives. Building on basic teachings and guided practice, he will train participants into developing “ways of looking” that help free the mind from conceptual fabrication.
RETREAT IN FULL SILENCE.
Prerequisite: meditation experience

Winter Visit to Moscow
2016-11-30 - 2016-12-11 | Ripa Moscow Center, Aptekarsky Pereulok 9, Moskow, Russian Federation
With Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche
November 30th 19:00 – 21:00
Open talk on Mindful Leadership
Free entrance. Event is open to all.
Venue: Yunost Hotel conference hall, Khamovnichesky Val 34, Sportivnaya Metro station
December 1st 19:00 – 21:00
Man-to-man Talk: Developing Warrior’s Heart and Mind
Organized by Sparta Men Club. Event is open to all. Registration of intent is required.
Venue: Ripa Center, Aptekarsky Pereulok 9, Lungta Hall
December 2 – 4
Mindfulness Meditation Weekend
Event page on facebook
Friday, December 2nd 19:00 – 21:00
Saturday, December 3rd 10:00 – 18:00
Sunday, December 4th 10:00 – 18:00
Venue: Ripa Center, Aptekarsky Pereulok 9, Lungta Hall
December 6 – 8
Buddhist Tantric Teachings: Narak Konshak and Samantabhadra’s Prayer — Repenting and Purification
Tuesday, December 6th 19:00 – 22:00
Wednesday, December 7th 19:00 – 22:00
Thursday, December 8th 19:00 – 22:00
Venue: Ripa Center, Aptekarsky Pereulok 9, Lungta Hall
December 11th 10:00 – 12:30
Blessing Children
Venue: Ripa Center, Aptekarsky Pereulok 9, Lungta Hall
Register now (page in Russian only)

Visit to Vietnam
2016-11-18 - 2016-12-02
Confirmed dates are November 18th to December 2nd. Details to follow.
See also the Ripa Vietnam website (in Vietnamese) : http://www.ripavietnam.org/

Kado – the way of flowers
2016-11-12 09:00 - 2016-11-13 16:00 | Ripa International Center, Hilfligweg 10 CH-3172, Bern, Switzerland
WITH MAY ISLER
Ikebana as meditation
Using the wisdom of nature, the creative meditation of Kado teaches us to see things clearly as they are. This enables us to develop a better acceptance of obstacles and respectful relationship with nature, with ourselves and with others.
The chinese term of “Kado” means “The Way of Flowers” and was first developed in China over 2300 years ago. When it was introduced and assimilated into Japan, the Japanese word “Ikebana” arose, meaning “living or natural flowers”. Kado is a contemplative practice that studies nature as it is and hence, humans being part of the all compassing nature, we simultaneously study ourselves as we are when working with natural materials in Kado.
The ultimate purpose in Kado is not to make pleasant flower arrangements, but cultivate appreciation for each moment, to work with obstacles, and to develop respect for ourselves, others and all forms of life.
With May Isler – she has been student of Marcia Shibata for 20 years and is authorized to conduct workshops as part of the Shambhala Kado Rigden Ikebana School.

Qi Gong – the path of peace
2016-11-04 06:00 - 2016-11-06 16:00 | Ripa International Center, Hilfligweg 10 CH-3172, Bern, Switzerland
WITH AGNES CAUQUIL-MOREAU
Qi is the invisible and mobile energy, the breath of life or vital energy that keeps us alive. Qi gong is a technique of long life which optimizes our energy potential and develops the immune system of the body through the inner listening.
This health prevention practice offers a series of simple and slow movements, easy to learn, who are able to provide well-being and serenity.
Cultivating peace of mind, relaxation and relaxation of the body, Qi gong is a source of benefits, including curing the effects of stress.
During this weekend, open to all, we will practice dynamic movements, static postures to strengthen the Qi, meditations and relaxation in this energy practice, which proposes to unify the body, mind and breath,
Agnès Cauquil-Moreau
shares her passion of Qi gong, which she exercises for over 20 years. Formed with various Chinese and Western instructors, she continues her training in order to offer quality tools for personal development and prevention of health.
Qi Gong teacher, she is a graduate of the Federation of Qi Gong Arts and Energy, the French Federation of Sports for All and the European Institute of Qi Gong and graduate of the Faculty of Medicine Montpellier TCM massage and Qi Gong.

Shiné/Shamata: The practice of calm abiding
2016-10-28 18:00 - 2016-10-30 16:00 | Ripa International Center, Hilfligweg 10 CH-3172, Bern, Switzerland
With Nathalie Bourquin
By using the breath as a guide, the external and internal distractions are pacified, so that the thoughts and emotional turmoil of the mind are brought to rest (SHI = pacify), and thus one returns to one’s internal center and abides there ( NE = remain). Learn how a calmer, more relaxed and more spacious mind makes dealing with one’s self and with others easier and more enjoyable. We will do sitting practice, and between sessions, to support us – some movement (for body awareness), as well as listen to music, and share wisdom stories. Included is a round of interpersonal exchange, which brings us knowledge about ourselves, and shows us how our mind works.
Experienced meditators and newcomers are equally welcome!

Visit to Ramatuelle, Southern France: Opening one’s self to loving kindness
2016-10-22 08:00 - 2016-10-23 17:00 | Chateau de la Messardiere, Route de Tahiti, Saint Tropez, France
With Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche
October 21 – 23, 2016

According to Buddhist teachings, the inherent nature of all beings is fundamentally good, although temporarily veiled. Developing confidence in loving kindness, and caring for others, enables its expression. This is the theme that Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche will develop over teachings open to all. Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche is a meditation master and master of Buddhist philosophy, in the Kagyu and Nyingma traditions, and teaches worldwide.
Friday, October 21st at 8:00 pm: seminar “Listening to one’s heart in order to take care of our world” – Chateau de la Messardiere, Route de Tahiti, Saint Tropez.

Saturday the 22nd and Sunday, October 23rd from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm: weekend seminar : “Opening up to loving kindness.” The practice of Medicine Buddha will be offered following the teachings, please remember to bring texts if you have them. Dojo near the Cultural Space Albert Raphael in Ramatuelle. Doors open one hour before the teachings. Please plan to arrive a little early for us to welcome Rinpoche all together. We advise you to bring your meditation cushion.

http://ripa-international.com/program/visit-to-ramatuelle-southern-france-opening-ones-self-to-loving-kindness/

YOGOM ® – Yoga / Meditation
2016-10-21 18:30 - 2016-10-23 15:30 | The Ripa International Center (RIC), Hilfigweg 10, CH – 3172 Niederwangen, Bern, Switzerland
With François Bertolero
The targeted body and breathing exercises of YOGOM ® are a natural transition for the practice of sitting Shamatha meditation, connecting body and mind directly.
Under the inspiration of Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche, Yogom® was developed through the Buddhist mindfulness method that we prefer to call presence of mind. Yogom® is the anteroom and the threshold of calm abiding meditation. This unique method starts before meditation to facilitate sitting in the physical sense as well as in the psychic sense. Adaptive training is done to ensure that postures are accessible to everyone, as well as rhythmic breathing exercises and a working sitting position, which opens the door to true yoga. The first benefit of the comfort provided in the sitting posture is to fully unlock the road to the more subtle meditation practices. The development of the seat thus naturally continues until achieving the mind of calming abiding through Shamata (Shiné) meditation.

Promoting mental resilience and well-being
2016-10-14 18:00 - 2016-10-16 16:00 | Ripa International Center, Hilfligweg 10 CH-3172, Bern, Switzerland
WITH DIEGO HANGARTNER
A scientific and experimental approach
One of the most persistent, frustrating issues facing us today is that we lack mental wellbeing, often feeling restless, anxious, and inattentive.
Over the last 10 years a growing body of evidence from the highest level of scientific research has emerged, and has confirmed the mental and physical benefits of mind training, also known as meditation.
The main purpose of this programme called the “Wheel of Mental Balance” is to develop mental balance and resilience in a modern context. It combines techniques and processes found in classical Buddhist texts, extracting the values of practical application without compromising the source materials. Based on traditional meditation practices, the programme incorporates and builds on insights stemming from current neuroscientific and clinical research.
Based on a profound conceptual framework, the program represents a collection of proven, practical methods whose purpose is to overcome hindrances in the midst of our daily lives, and to enable and find mental balance.
Addressed to individuals and professionals of all walks of life wishing to discover or to deepen their knowledge and experience of meditation and learn more about its role in promoting mental balance and resilience in daily life.
In order to fully benefit from the experience, we strongly recommend participants to stay on the premises overnight.
Diego Hangartner, Pharm.D., [b. 1962] completed his studies in pharmacology at the ETHZurich. He lived for 11 years in Dharamsala, India, learned Tibetan, and studied for 7 years at the Institute of Buddhist Dialectics. He has completed many retreats, worked as an interpreter, translating Tibetan into many languages, and published a few books.
On returning to Europe in 2003, he taught widely, and organized several large events with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and participated in research aimed at exploring the benefits of meditation as a long-term practitioner.
Diego is associated and worked with the Mind and Life Institute (Dialogues between science and Buddhism) since the 1990’s: he was Mind and Life’s COO from 2009 – 2012 in the USA, co-founded Mind and Life Europe, and was its director until 2014. He was actively involved in research projects.
Diego founded the “Institute of Secular Ethics and Mental Balance” (ISEMB), an interdisciplinary initiative to provide tools and programs that foster mental balance, and created “The Wheel of Mental Balance”.

Visit to Boulder, Colorado: Long Life Empowerment
2016-10-09 13:15 - 18:00 | Boulder Shambhala Center, 1345 Spruce Street, Boulder, CO, 80302, United States
With His Eminence Namkha Drimed Rabjam Rinpoche
THE LONG LIFE EMPOWERMENT IS OPEN TO EVERYONE
His Eminence Terton Namkha Drimed Rinpoche will confer the Guru Rinpoche long-life empowerment from his collection of termas. Long-life empowerments are blessings of the lineage and the teacher, in order to open the potential in our being to connect with deep principles of health, healing, and longevity. Traditionally, long-life blessings are done at the conclusion of a series of empowerments as a way to seal the practice, receive the blessings of the lineage, to strengthen the health of the students and to clear obstacles for practicing the teachings.
This long-life blessing is available to all members and friedns of the Shambhala community.
His Eminence Tertön Namkha Drimed Rinpoche was born in 1939 in Eastern Tibet. He was recognized as a tertön, or treasure revealer, by both His Holiness Dudjom Rinpoche and His Holiness Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. From an early age he recalled his previous lives, including his life as Bumpa Gyatsa Shelkar, the elder brother of Gesar Norbu Dradül, the enlightened ruler of the 10th century Kingdom of Ling in Tibet. His Eminence is most well-known for his vast collection of ‘mind terma’ revelations related to Gesar. For two weeks last October (2015) in Pharping, Nepal, His Eminence conferred this Gesar lineage of teachings on Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche.
Within the Himalayan Buddhist community, His Eminence is renowned for his wisdom, his dedication to the practice tradition, and the power of his practices for healing, divination, and pacification of obstacles. His worldwide community includes monasteries in Tibet, India, and Nepal and a large lay center in Switzerland. A more extensive biography can be found here.
Click Here to Register
See the Boulder Shambhala website for further details: http://boulder.shambhala.org/program-details/?id=271073

Visit to Boulder, Colorado: Wrathful Gesar Wang
2016-10-08 13:15 - 17:30 | Boulder Shambhala Center, 1345 Spruce Street, Boulder, CO, 80302, United States
With His Eminence Namkha Drimed Rabjam Rinpoche
OPEN TO VAJRAYANA STUDENTS ONLY
DORJE KASUNG WHO ARE TANTRIKAS ARE ESPECIALLY ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND
Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche has requested His Eminence Terton Namkha Drimed to bestow the Wrathful Gesar Empowerment in Boulder. This empowerment is part of a larger cycle of mind termas revealed to Namkha Drimed Rinpoche by Akar Werma, a deity that embodies the union of Gesar and Padmakara.
The practice of Wrathful Gesar (Gesar Trakpo) is intended to repel obstacles, accidents, and illnesses in order to practice the dharma. Gesar Trakpo is analogous to Dorje Trollo, the wrathful manifestation of compassion that Padmasambhava assumed when he first entered the untamed land of Tibet.
The practices of Gesar are a means to quickly attain the state of a warrior’s mind which unhesitatingly benefits others. Gesar’s appearance in Tibetan history during a time of great negativity and is a parallel to the emergence of Shambhala in these times of speed, aggression, and materialism.
Invoking the blessings of Gesar generally will protect you from all obstacles and harm, will help accomplish everything you set out to do, and will bring auspiciousness and fulfillment of all your aspirations.

Visit to Stupa near Epuyen, Argentina with Public Talk at CE Samantabhadra
2016-10-02 | Samantabhadra Education Center, Epuyen, Argentina
With Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche
With great joy we announce that on October 2 Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche will be giving a day of public talks in the meditation hall of the Stupa Epuyen.
Born in India in 1970, he is the son and spiritual heir of His Eminence Tertön (Treasure Discoverer Dharma), Namkha Drimed Rabjam Rinpoche, Ripa Lineage Holder, in the Nyingma and Kagyu traditions. Jigme Rinpoche was recognized by the extraordinary Dudjom Rinpoche, as the emanation of Pema Lingpa Tertön, one of the five main discoverers of teaching-treasure left by Guru Padmasambhava. In his previous life he was in charge of the monastery of Orgyen Mindroling in sacred land of Pemako.
Along with his father and brother, he is spiritual director of Ripa International, whose headquarters are in Switzerland, with offices in several countries in Europe and North America. Thubten Mindrolling monastery, located in Orissa, India, is a center of traditional training in different areas of philosophy, art, astrology, medicine and a retreat center. Rinpoche has also developed humanitarian projects for potable water, health centers, children’s education and care of the elderly.
During his two previous visits Rinpoche expressed his desire to visit the mountains and return to Patagonia. He will also be offering teachings in Buenos Aires and Puerto Madryn.
See facebook for details: https://www.facebook.com/cesamantabhadra/
or website: http://www.cesamantabhadra.com

Visit to Patagonia, Argentina (Puerto Madryn): Developing loving kindness through meditation
2016-09-30 | Unnamed Venue, Puerto Madryn, Argentina
With Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche
With great joy we announce the upcoming visit of Tibetan Buddhist Master Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche. We will talk about meditation and its benefits in developing our inner peace and goodness. We will have the opportunity to practice with him and ask our questions. For more details you can call 0280 154204386 or write to padmaling.patagonia@gmail.com
See facebook for more: https://www.facebook.com/events/1338123002883197/
as well as flyer : http://ripa-international.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Afiche-Rinpoche-Sept-2016-2.jpg

Learn to meditate – Shiné
2016-09-22 19:30 - 20:30 | The Ripa International Center (RIC), Hilfigweg 10, CH – 3172 Niederwangen, Bern, Switzerland
With Amrit Wagner
There is an ongoing practice for students of all levels, newcomers and long time students alike, at the Ripa International Center. The practice is led by Amrit Wagner, an approved meditation instructor under the guidance of Dungsey Gyeterul Jigme Rinpoche. For more information on the weekly Shiné sittings, please contact: info@ripa-international.com
THE IMPORTANCE OF MEDITATION: “The only way to know mind and to attain wisdom is through meditation. In repose, in space, in silent time, answers can come. Wisdom and insight wash away problems. Transformation occurs in stillness. Through the practice of mindfulness, the elementary harmony that creates wind horse – the Tibetan expression for positive energy – is created. Relaxation will then translate into everyday life and bring benefits. Internal change will bring external change. When we are clear and equipped with insight, we are in a place to help others. It is by developing wisdom and compassion that we are able to be of the greatest assistance to others…. compassion heals.” – Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche

Visit to Buenes Aires, Argentina: Public Talk and Seminar on Compassion, Vajrasattva Wang, Green Tara Wang
2016-09-22 - 2016-09-27 | Buddhist Center KTC, Av. Melian 2171 , Buenes Aires, Argentina
With Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche
Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche is an extraordinary Tibetan Buddhist Master, characterized by his vast wisdom, his charisma and warmth. He conveys the depth of Buddhist wisdom through his extensive knowledge of the lifestyle of modern societies, in clear and direct language. Rinpoche will give teachings and initiations in a fluid and flawless English, with translation into Castilian.
PROGRAM in the Buddhist Center KTC: Av. Melian 2171
Open to all:
THURSDAY, September 22nd from 19h to 21h. Tariff $ 250
Living in the world with courage, openness and compassion.
Introductory talk on how to bring compassion into action and make it a valuable resource for personal and social change.
SATURDAY, September 24th to 12 and 15 to 19hs. Tariff $ 800
Living in the world with courage, openness and compassion.
Seminar: instruction and guided practice.
The inherent nature of all beings is essentially goodness. It is temporarily veiled by feelings of fear, doubt and distrust. We can learn to accept our insecurity with affection and openness, maintaining confidence in the good nature of our being to allow the warmth of our own humanity to be revealed. These are the keys to a path leading to a more compassionate presence in society.
The first step is to calm the mind, followed by the introduction into the essential nature of the mind, and the development of empathy and compassion for all beings. The open and clear acceptance to every moment of life, enables us to be free of interpretations and judgments. These useful teachings and practices for modern life, allow us to face with confidence and dignity the challenges that we may experience in the difficult times in which we live.
For Buddhists, and practitioners who wish to take refuge:
MONDAY, September 26th of 19 to 21h. Tariff $ 300
The healing power of meditation
Initiation of Vajrasattva, the Buddha of purification
Inattention generates more confusion, where we develop habits and inappropriate behaviors that bring pain and suffering. Meditative practice synchronizes the body and mind, and establishes a healthy ground from which to take more ethical and compassionate decisions, allowing us to manifest our inherent qualities.
TUESDAY, September 27th from 19 to 21h. Tariff $ 300
Transforming negative emotions. Green Tara initiation, Mother Liberator
We can consider the fear and the other disturbing emotions as the foundation to develop wisdom and courage. Fear can be our starting point to recognize and choose to move in the direction of understanding, trust and kindness.
See website (Spanish with some English) for details: http://ktcarg2.weebly.com/visita-jigme-rinpoche.html

Visit to Southern California: Yeshe Tsogyal Retreat, Dorje Drolö Wang, Gesar Fire Puja
2016-09-16 10:00 - 2016-09-19 18:00 | Ari Bhod Pema Drawa, Tehachapi, CA, 93561, United States
With His Eminence Namkha Drimed Rabjam Rinpoche
Southern California
Dates: September 16 (evening), 17, 18 & 19
Location:
Ari Bhod, Pema Drawa
Tehachapi Mountains in Southern CA
3 Day Tagsham Yeshe Tsogyal Retreat, September 16th, 17th & 18th (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
The Empowerment of Dorje Drolö, September 16th (Evening)
Gesar Retreat & Fire Puja, September 19th
Details on the Ari Bhod website: http://aribhod.org/2016/hendr/

Visit to Ari Bhod, Southern California : Vajrasattva Healing Ceremony
2016-09-15 17:00 - 19:00 | Ari Bhod Pema Drawa, Tehachapi, CA, 93561, United States
With His Eminence Namkha Drimed Rabjam Rinpoche
Vajrasattva Purification and Healing Ceremony

Vajrasattva Purification and Healing Ceremony with HE Namkha Drimed Rinpoche
2016-09-15 17:00 - 19:00 | Ari Bhod Pema Drawa, Tehachapi, CA, 93561, United States
Vajrasattva Purification and Healing Ceremony
Buddhist Purification and Healing Ceremony (Vajrasattva). Vajrasattva practice is a tantric meditation done for the purification of karma. It is undertaken with a bodhichitta aim to purify all our karma in order to reach enlightenment as quickly as possible to help all sentient beings.

The Rubin Wisdom Series
2016-09-10 15:00 - 16:30 | The Rubin Museum, 150 West 17th Street, New York, NY, 10011, United States
Join Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche and Tony Cointreau for a deep dive into the meaning of wisdom with an on-stage conversation that will offer perspective on what it means to be wise. Tony will share the wisdom he learned from working with Mother Teresa and compares approaches to treating the dying with Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche.

Mero Gaon: My Village – Screening and Talk
2016-09-07 19:00 - 20:30 | The Rubin Museum, 150 West 17th Street, New York, NY, 10011, United States
Join Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche and the award-winning director and photographer Indrani Pal Chaudhuri for a screening of their film Mero Gaon, which tells the story of rebuilding a village in Nepal after the devastating 2015 earthquake. Both Jigme Rinpoche and Chaudhuri will participate in a talk with the audience after the screening.

Mindfulness Meditation – Led by Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche
2016-09-07 13:00 - 13:45 | The Rubin Museum, 150 West 17th Street, New York, NY, 10011, United States
For centuries Himalayan practitioners have used meditation to quiet the mind, calm the nervous system and increase focus. Now Western scientists, business leaders and the secular world have embraced meditation as a vital tool for brain health.
Whether you’re a beginner, a dabbler or a skilled meditator seeking the company of others, join Rinpoche in a forty-five-minute program designed to fit into your lunch break. Each session will be inspired by a different work of art from the Rubin Museum’s collection and will include an opening talk, a 20 minute sitting session and a closing session. Chairs will be provided and late comers may not be admitted past 1:10 PM to avoid disruption.

Gesar Wang Part 2 – Empowerment and Teaching with HE Namkha Drimed Rinpoche
2016-08-20 10:00 - 16:30 | Tibet House, 22 West 15th Street, New York, NY, 10011, United States
This Event, the Gesar Wang Empowerment and Teaching, is Part 2 of the Gesar Teachings by His Eminence Namkha Drimed Rinpoche. Part 1 takes place on Friday, August 19th (please click to see details) and will cover the Magnetizing Aspects of Gesar. We encourage you to attend the teachings on both days as they will compliment each other (not mandatory).
Gesar Wang Empowerment and Teaching
Empowerment or “granting an empowerment” refers to the Vajrayana ritual which awakens the special capacity for primordial wisdom to arise in the mind of the student. It is called “empowerment” because when we receive it, we are empowered to follow a particular spiritual practice or path to complete enlightenment; therefore, mastering its realization.
Empowerment means to ripen or mature our Buddha nature. Even though all beings possess the Buddha nature, without receiving an empowerment it is not possible to receive blessings through a particular practice.

Drupchös in Russia: Hayagriva and Wrathful Gesar
2016-08-20 - 2016-09-25 | Ripa Russia Center, Aptekarsky per.9, Moscow, Russian Federation
With Dungsey Lhuntrul Dechen Gyurmey Rinpoche
End of Summer / Early Fall in Russia:
Two Drupchös will be led by Dungsey Lhuntrul Dechen Gyurmey Rinpoche and monks (exact dates to be clarified later):
Hayagriva Drupcho (7 days) — Urgen Sangak Choiling Monastery, Kalmykia
Wrathful Gesar Drupcho (5 days) — Ripa Moscow Center
The teaching will be given in English.
For more info click here

Gesar Wang 1 Magnetizing Aspect of Gesar with HE Namkha Drimed Rinpoche
2016-08-19 18:30 - 20:30 | Tibet House, 22 West 15th Street, New York, NY, 10011, United States
This Event, the Gesar Wang – Magnitizing Aspect of Gesar, is Part 1 of the Gesar Teachings by His Eminence Namkha Drimed Rinpoche. Part 2 takes place on Saturday, August 20th (please click to see details) and will be a Gesar Empowerment and Teaching. We encourage you to attend the teachings on both days as they will compliment each other (not mandatory).
Gesar Wang – The Magnetizing Aspect of Gesar:
We are happy to announce that His Eminence Terton Namkha Drimed Rabjam Rinpoche, Lineage holder of the Ripa Lineage, has graciously agreed to grant the teachings of Gesar Wang – The Magnetizing Aspect of Gesar. This is a unique opportunity to receive these mind treasure (Terma) teachings directly from the treasure revealer himself. It is said that Gesar was a being that came to earth to pacify demonic forces and spread dharma teachings in this world. Many of the scriptures describe Gesar as the embodiment of Guru Rinpoche’s enlightened activities and the emanation of Avalokitesvara, Manjushri and Vajrapani. His Eminence, who was himself King Gesar’s brother in a previous life, rediscovered and revealed his teachings, particularly the Four Aspects of Gesar – the four enlightened activities. The magnetizing activities allow us to gain control over the world so that we can fulfill our worldly aims for the benefit of all beings. We are very fortunate to receive these teachings and practices directly from the treasure revealer himself.

Guru Rinpoche Celebration: Lama Dances and Lingdro
2016-08-13 03:00 - 20:00 | Ripa International Center, Hilfligweg 10 CH-3172, Bern, Switzerland
Jewels of Living Tibetan Culture in Switzerland
Genuine traditional Tibetan cultural dances performed by Tibetan Lamas from Asia according to the Epic of Gesar; a rare and colorful celebration for all!

Dorje Drollo dance
Black Hat dance
Lingdro dance
Five Dakinis dance
Lingdro dance

Summer Retreat 2016 Week Three: "Fire-Monkey 2016" Year of Guru Rinpoche – Celebration of His Birth, Life and Enlightenment
2016-08-06 - 2016-08-13 | The Ripa International Center (RIC), Hilfigweg 10, CH – 3172 Niederwangen, Bern, Switzerland
With His Eminence Namkha Drimed Rabjam Rinpoche, Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche and Dungsey Lhuntrul Dechen Gyurmey Rinpoche
Guru Rinpoche Empowerment and Celebration
The Tsog Bum is achieved by invoking the blessings of Guru Rinpoche and the assistance of his entourage of deities. It helps to transform disturbed energies into positive outcomes. This practice is specifically undertaken to heal and bring harmony, peace, wisdom and compassion to all beings. Engaging in the practice of Tsog offering helps to release mental projections and ignorance as well as ego clinging which often manifests as anger, attachment, pride and envy, thus allowing one to fully enter into non-dual wisdom. The ultimate result is peace, positive circumstances and bliss, leading us further towards enlightenment, as we dedicate the merit to all beings.
Guru Rinpoche Day Celebration
August 13th marks the 10th day of the Monkey month of the Monkey year, an extremely auspicious occasion that only happens once every twelve years! It is believed that the blessings of Guru Rinpoche are particularly powerful and invoking him brings instant blessings to those present. The Ripa International Center will celebrate this occasion with the traditional Tibetan Cham ritual. Mask Dances and the Gesar Lingdro Dances will be performed in the exceptional presence of the three Ripa Masters.
Fire Monkey 2016
2016 is the Year of the Fire-Monkey – Guru Rinpoche’s Year – a time in which Guru Rinpoche’s energies are particularly strong and prevalent. It is also the year of Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche, the spiritual director of the Ripa Center, who is particularly blessed by Guru Rinpoche. Supporting him at this time is a particularly poignant and a very concrete way to help our teacher’s activity flourish.
Schedule:
6 August: Arrival
7 August: Guru Rinpoche Empowerment bestowed by His Eminence Terton Namkha Drimed Rabjam Rinpoche
8 – 12 August: Tsog Bum
13 August: Guru Rinpoche Day celebration
Further details to come…

Please note that the teachings will be given in English.
Program details can be found on the link below.
http://ripa-international.com/program/2016-year-of-the-fire-monkey-guru-rinpoches-year-celebration-of-padmasambhavas-birth-life-and-enlightenment/

Summer Retreat 2016 Week Two: Yeshe Tsogyal Drupchö
2016-07-30 - 2016-08-06 | The Ripa International Center (RIC), Hilfigweg 10, CH – 3172 Niederwangen, Bern, Switzerland
With His Eminence Namkha Drimed Rabjam Rinpoche, Dungsey Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche and Dungsey Lhuntrul Dechen Gyurmey Rinpoche
Week Two of the Ripa International Summer Retreat 2016
A drupchö offers a rare opportunity to completely focus body, speech and mind on the spiritual path, resulting in achievement and merit. During this drupchö, practitioners invite the Dakini Yeshe Tsogyal that embodies healing energy, helping to create the space in which emotions can dissolve.
The teachings will be given in English.
