Jamie van Dam has been studying Buddha Dharma with Lama Mark Webber since 2001 and had the good fortune to also study with the Lama’s root teacher, the late Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche. During that time Jamie received the novice ordination from Rinpoche, which Jamie practiced and held for a number of years. Jamie was Lama Mark’s principal attendant for five years, during which he organized and handled Lama Mark’s personal meals, travel and accommodation as well as help organize international retreats and teachings. Since that time, Jamie has continued periodically as an attendant to Lama Mark, assisting in his scientific research and teaching Awareness Through Movement (ATM) classes during Dharma retreats.
Jamie has completed numerous short and long term retreats both self-directed and under the guidance of Lama Mark including a five-month personal retreat, a five-month Ngöndro and Insight retreat, a four-month Abhidhamma and Insight retreat, and a three-month Vajra Yogini retreat.
Jamie is a graduate of the 2007 Victoria Feldenkrais Teacher Training where he studied with many well respected Feldenkrais trainers; Jeff Haller, Jerry Karzen, Beatriz Walterspiel, Alan Questel, Katrin Smithback and Bonnie Humiston. Under their guidance he completed the 800 hour training program which focused primarily on discovering awareness; the principles & strategies of learning; the self image & its development and functional, developmental & structural types of movements.
Jamie’s teaching style emphasizes a patient attentiveness with humour and understanding helping uncover natural wholesome ways of living with and for all life.