January 23, 2016 – January 24, 2016
Join senior Dharma Ocean teacher Al Blum for a weekend introductory program at the Queenstown Dharma Center in New Zealand. During the weekend, we will explore a variety of somatic meditations which directly address modern afflictions of perpetual stress, sensory overload, and disembodiment. These practices are the foundations of the practicing lineage of Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhism, as taught by Dr. Reggie Ray.
From the perspective of this tradition, somatic practice opens pathways to the most authentic human spiritual journey–a journey of deepening embodiment, compassion, and radical openness. Through talks, guided meditation sessions and discussion, participants will learn and master a graduated series of basic practices, which are the essential foundations for making this journey.
Retreat Details
To register for this program please email qtndharmacentre@gmail.com. The program registration fee is $25 NZD. Participants will also be invited to offer dana for the teacher. This program will take place at the Queenstown Dharma Centre, 12 Lake Street, Queentown, NZ 9300.
Saturday, January 23 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (with 1.5 hour break for lunch*)
Sunday, January 24 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
*Lunch will not be provided, however you may bring your lunch or there are several restaurants within walking distance.
About the Teacher
Al Blum encountered the Dharma over twenty years ago, after a long struggle with a serious illness inspired a search for deeper meaning and purpose. His focus in practice and teaching is the practical and philosophical integration of Dharma practice into the everyday world of family, community, and work. Al has been teaching in various Dharma Ocean programs since 2006 and has an M.A. in Indo Tibetan Buddhism from Naropa University.
About his teaching philosophy, he comments:
“Meditation practice in our lineage doesn’t imply retreating from or renouncing the world. Rather, practice gradually opens us to the profound spiritual possibilities inherent in the the moment to moment reality of the lives we actually live. As such, there is tremendous respect in our sangha for the uniqueness of each person’s journey.
My role as a teacher is to accurately transmit our lineage’s incredible body of wisdom and practices in a way that speaks to each student’s individual journey, no matter where they are on the path. In my experience, this can unfold beautifully in an environment of mutual learning and collaborative self-discovery.”