Annual Family Retreat:
The Earth is My Witness


with Tsultrim Allione and others

July 26 -August 2, 2007

On the night of his enlightenment, the Buddha touched the earth and said, "The earth is my witness". During this retreat we will look at the Dharma-Gaia and how to connect Buddhist practice with ecological awareness. Our annual family retreat is a unique opportunity to bring together those in 'family practice' in a contemplative setting amidst the expansive nature of Tara Mandala. This year’s theme will be the life and teachings of the Buddha. The Buddha’s example offers an inspiring yet evocative look at the life of one who left his family and home to pursue a spiritual quest. How can his example inspire our lives as householders and family members? Tsultrim will share her insights and teachings; together and in age-separated groups we will explore the connection between our daily lives in the world and contemplative practice. All ages will learn and practice basic sitting meditation.

We will also draw inspiration from the natural world around us, and connect our practice to the vibrant energies of the earth. Teens will have the opportunity to spend solo time in the wild, led by experienced rite of passage guides. Younger children will spend time in smaller groups creating art and nature projects. Parents and adults will have time alone for practice, teachings, and for discussion on how to integrate contemplative parenting into our busy daily lives. In addition, there will be group projects, outings, and camp fire evenings for the entire family.

Course Price: $500 per adult
$270 per child (ages 6 - 12)
$340 per teen (ages 13-17)
Member Price (15%/10%): $425/$450 per adult
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Tsultrim Allione, M.A. is one of the first American women ordained as a Tibetan nun in 1970 by the 16th Karmapa. She is author of Women of Wisdom, a groundbreaking book on the lives of great female Tibetan Buddhist practitioners, as well as articles and various audio programs on the sacred feminine and other Buddhist topics.
After four years as a nun, Tsultrim returned her monastic vows, married, and had three children. She has continued to practice, study and teach for the last thirty years, earning a degree in Buddhist Studies/Women's Studies from Antioch University. Inspired by the vision of a Western retreat center while living in the Himalayas and the need to create a place for the reemergence of the sacred feminine, Tsultrim founded Tara Mandala in 1993 where she is now the resident teacher. She is author of Sounds True audio programs 'Cutting Through Fear' and 'The Mandala of the Enlightened Feminine' and is currently writing a book with the working title 'Feeding Your Demons: Wisdom for Challenging Times' to be published by Time Warner, Little Brown in 2007.