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DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261028T131500
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DTSTAMP:20260831T123843Z
CREATED:20260831T123729Z
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UID:10010642-1793193300-1793195100@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Wednesday Drop in Guided Meditation Sessions\, Rigpa Newcastle
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday Drop-in Guided Meditation Sessions.\n 1:15pm to 1:45pm.\nHeld at Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown. NSW. 2290.\n  \nThe first and basic practice of meditation is to allow the mind to settle into a state of ‘calm abiding’\, where it will find peace and stability. Training in mindfulness and calm abiding (shamatha) meditation pacifies our scattered minds\, defuses our powerful emotions and overcomes distraction. \nThese sessions are perfect for busy people without any meditation experience\, right through to seasoned meditators. Step by step guidance will help you build confidence in your own meditation practice and inspire you to establish a daily practice. \nDetails\n\n\nled by experienced meditator and friend of Rigpa from the Palpung community / Rigpa instructors\nno booking required\nmultiple short sessions of meditation\nsome gentle guidance\ncushions and seats provided\nFree but donation welcome.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/wednesday-drop-in-guided-meditation-sessions-rigpa-newcastle-2/2026-10-28/
LOCATION:Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, nsw\, 2290\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Newcastle-Drop-In-Meditation-Wednesdays-web-square.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261027T123000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261027T130000
DTSTAMP:20260726T092544Z
CREATED:20260726T092543Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260726T092544Z
UID:10009829-1793104200-1793106000@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Tuesday  Drop in Guided Meditation Sessions\, Rigpa Newcastle.
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday Drop-in Guided Meditation Sessions.\n12:30pm to 1:00pm.\nHeld at Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown. NSW. 2290.\n  \nThe first and basic practice of meditation is to allow the mind to settle into a state of ‘calm abiding’\, where it will find peace and stability. Training in mindfulness and calm abiding (shamatha) meditation pacifies our scattered minds\, defuses our powerful emotions and overcomes distraction. \nThese sessions are perfect for busy people without any meditation experience\, right through to seasoned meditators. Step by step guidance will help you build confidence in your own meditation practice and inspire you to establish a daily practice. \nDetails\n\n\nled by experienced meditators/ Rigpa instructors\nno booking required\nmultiple short sessions of meditation\nsome gentle guidance\ncushions and seats provided\nFree but donation welcome.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/tuesday-drop-in-meditation-rigpa-newcastle-2-2-2-2-2/2026-10-27/
LOCATION:Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, nsw\, 2290\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle,Newcastle - All welcome
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Drop-in-Meditation-Newcastle-square.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261027T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261027T120000
DTSTAMP:20260928T023935Z
CREATED:20260928T023407Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260928T023935Z
UID:10011242-1793095200-1793102400@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Inspiring a Revolution in Your Heart and Mind: Open Heart I Newcastle I Day Class
DESCRIPTION:Open Heart\nIntroducing the Tibetan Buddhist compassion practices centring on loving kindness. Loving kindness meditation restores our confidence and heals unresolved emotional wounds. It also puts us in touch with the fundamental goodness of our core being\, unlocking a vast source of love and care for ourselves and others. \n  2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, 2290\n  Tuesday mornings\, 20 October to 17 November\n 10.00am – 12.00pm \nWho: All welcome \nCost: 5 session module: Full $100\, Concession $50 \nFREE for Rigpa members/subscribers who may email newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request the discount code. \nIf you are experiencing financial hardship please email us at newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request a further concession. \nA module of Inspiring a Revolution in Your Heart and Mind \nThis course takes you on an experiential journey through The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying\, giving you a taste of its major themes and their practical implications. Suitable for people of any religion or of none\, the course encourages you to reflect on the Buddhist teachings\, to see what makes sense to you and to experiment with applying these teachings in your daily life. \nThe Tibetan Book of Living and Dying is widely regarded as one of the most complete and authoritative presentations of the Tibetan Buddhist teachings. A manual for life and death and a source of sacred inspiration from the heart of the Tibetan tradition\, The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying provides a lucid and inspiring introduction to the practice of meditation\, to the nature of mind\, to karma and rebirth\, and to the trials and rewards of the spiritual path. The teachings\, meditation and contemplations from this authentic tradition reveal how each of us can live a more meaningful\, connected and fulfilling life. \nYou will learn: \n\nHow to meditate\nHow an acceptance of impermanence can help us understand death and change our attitude towards life\nHow meditation can transform our perception\, increase our confidence and fully connect us to the world around us\nThat mind is much more than just thoughts and emotions\nHow understanding the interdependency of all things and the principle of karma(that every action has an effect) gives us a logical basis for ethics and personal responsibility\n\nLed by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience\, each session consists of: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan and Western Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Mingyur Rinpoche\, Pema Chödrön and Sharon Salzberg.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering each student the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment and to connect with a community of practitioners.\n\nA year-long course that you can join at any time
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/inspiring-a-revolution-in-your-heart-and-mind-open-heart-i-newcastle-i-day-class/2026-10-27/
LOCATION:Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, nsw\, 2290\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle,Newcastle - All welcome
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Inspiring-open-heart-Newcastle.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261025T083000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261025T170000
DTSTAMP:20260917T101009Z
CREATED:20260823T232553Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T101009Z
UID:10010949-1792917000-1792947600@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Shechen Rabjam Rinpoche | Teachings\, Empowerments and Transmissions
DESCRIPTION:We are deeply honoured to announce that Kyabjé Shechen Rabjam Rinpoche will visit Sydney in October 2026 to offer a public talk with Matthieu Ricard\, and confer a number of important reading transmissions\, practical guidance\, and teachings. \nShechen Rabjam Rinpoche is one of the most highly revered masters in the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism and an important holder of its major lineages. He spent almost 25 years with his teacher and grandfather\, Kyabjé Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche\, receiving extensive teachings\, empowerments and transmissions\, and he continues that lineage today through his activities. \nRinpoche has agreed to give the following empowerments (wang): \n—Rongzom Kilaya – The Uncommon Vajrakīlaya lineage of Rongzom Paṇḍita stands among the most precious and extraordinary transmissions preserved within the Nyingma tradition and is important for the Yeshi Khorlo sangha. Learn more here. \n—Yang Nying Pudri – Razor of the Innermost Essence is a Vajrakilaya terma cycle revealed by Tertön Sogyal Lerab Lingpa. It serves as one of the two yidam practices for the Rigpa sangha and forms part of their foundational Three Roots practices. It allows students to practise the brief sadhanas of Vajrakilaya. Learn more here. \n—The 100 Peaceful and Wrathful Deities (Zhitro) of Chokgyur Lingpa – the Zhitro practice from the terma (treasure) cycle of the master Chokgyur Lingpa comprises the complete mandala empowerment of the 42 peaceful deities and 58 wrathful deities; it is a practice within the terma tradition and serves as an empowerment of the Guhyagarbha (Secret Essence) mandala. When teaching the Guhyagarbha Tantra\, His Holiness Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche required the qualification of the kama (oral transmission) empowerment of the Nyingma Guhyagarbha peaceful and wrathful deities. However\, His Holiness granted permission that the Zhitro empowerment from the Chokgyur Lingpa terma could serve as a substitute for the kamaempowerment of the Guhyagarbha peaceful and wrathful deities.྄ \nReceiving this empowerment also qualifies students to study Chapter 10 of the Yönten Dzö (The Treasury of Precious Qualities)\, the famous treatise by Jikmé Lingpa\, in which he expounds the entire Buddhist path from the shravaka yana teachings up to the Great Perfection. \n—Tiglé Gyachen\, the profound innermost secret guru yoga practice of the Longchen Nyingtik tradition. \n  \nRinpoche will also grant the reading transmissions (lung) for the practices associated with all of these empowerments\, as well as the lungs for:\n—Zurchungpa’s Eighty Chapters of Personal Advice\, the final testament of the great Nyingma master Zurchung Sherab Trakpa\n—Shechen Gyaltsab’s Commentary on this text.\n(Zurchungpa’s Testament\, along with Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche’s commentary\, is available in English – available through Shambala/Snow-Lion) \nMatthieu Ricard\, who served as Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche’s translator for more than twenty years will translate for Shechen Rabjam Rinpoche during the empowerments. \n  \n🗓️ 23 – 25 October\n⏰ 8.30-5.00pm each day\n📍Lower Town Hall\, 483 George Street\, Sydney \n  \nEligibility: Those wishing to receive the empowerments and transmissions must meet the following conditions\, set by Rinpoche: \n\nHave taken refuge in the Three Jewels\nHave genuine faith and confidence in the Vajrayana teachings and in the Guru\nHave completed 100\,000 recitations of the Vajrasattva short mantra or 10\,000 recitations of the Hundred-Syllable Mantra. In recognition of the sincere aspiration of practitioners in this age\, and with great compassion for those earnestly seeking the Dharma\, Rinpoche has graciously agreed that those who are unable to complete the prerequisite before the empowerment may attend by making a heartfelt commitment to fulfil it afterwards.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/shechen-rabjam-rinpoche-teachings-empowerments-and-transmissions/2026-10-25/
LOCATION:Lower Sydney Town Hall\, 483 George Street\, Sydney\, NSW\, 2000\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Featured Homepage,Featured Sydney,For Everyone,Newcastle - Established Students,Sydney - Established,Sydney - Everyone
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/SRR-Empowerments-web-square.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Sydney":MAILTO:sydney@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261023T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261023T113000
DTSTAMP:20260928T024126Z
CREATED:20260928T014006Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260928T024126Z
UID:10011234-1792747800-1792755000@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Enlightened Courage: the secret to training and transforming your mind with wisdom and compassion I Term 8
DESCRIPTION:Enlightened Courage: the secret to training and transforming your mind with wisdom and compassion. \nTerm 8\, 8 Sessions\, 16 October – 4 December \nOnline via Zoom and In Person\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, 2290 \nFridays\, 9.30am – 11.30am \n/MAHAYANA/ \nThis class is a contuing course made up of terms. The class features teachings from Sogyal Rinpoche\, Jetsun Khandro Rinpoche and Patrick Gaffney\, this weekly course presents the Mahayana Seven Points of Mind Training. These points lay out a path of formal meditation practice\, along with guidelines for extending that practice into everyday life. \nThese teachings are precious and unique in presenting the entire depth and breadth of the Buddha’s Mahayana teachings succinctly and practically. Mahayana mind training offers an approach to life that is straightforward\, grounded in sanity\, kindness\, and compassion. Yet it also offers a vision that completely transcends our ordinary way of viewing ourselves and others\, with an all-encompassing vision of enlightenment. \nAt the heart of this vision of enlightenment is the view that our innate\, fundamental identity is vast\, luminous and utterly awake. The Mahayana teachings refer to this as our enlightened heart\, or bodhicitta. Enlightenment is nothing other than who we really are. But for most of us\, our true nature is like a hidden treasure\, concealed behind layers of mental activity and preoccupation. Mahayana mind training helps us give expression to our enlightened heart in everything we think\, say and do. \nFounded on a practice lineage that has been actively practised for hundreds of years\, these teachings are completely relevant to the challenges posed by our modern\, globalised life. \n 8 weekly classes: Term 8\, Friday Mornings\, 8 Sessions\, 16 October  – 4 December \n 9.30am – 11.30am Australian Eastern Standard Time \nOnline via Zoom and In Person at 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown. 2290 \nfull $160\, concession $80 \nFree for Rigpa subscribers/ members (  please email newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request the subscriber discount code ). \nThis is the eighth and final term of a continuing course. If you wish to join after the first two weeks of a term then please register and pay a pro rata amount by sending  an email enquiry to newcastle@rigpa.org.au. If you are a newer student and would like to study this text please email Rigpa Newcastle at newcastle@rigpa.org.au. 
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/enlightened-courage-the-secret-to-training-and-transforming-your-mind-with-wisdom-and-compassion-3/2026-10-23/
LOCATION:Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, nsw\, 2290\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Established Students,Newcastle - Established Students
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Enlightened-Courage-Square-2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261022T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261022T210000
DTSTAMP:20261003T001119Z
CREATED:20260915T011320Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261003T001119Z
UID:10011221-1792695600-1792702800@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:A conversation between Shechen Rabjam Rinpoche and Matthieu Ricard
DESCRIPTION:The Relevance of Buddhism to the Modern World \nWhat does a contemplative tradition of more than two thousand years have to offer a world of accelerating change\, distraction and uncertainty? Join us for an evening in the company of two remarkable teachers. \n🗓️ 22 October\n⏰ 7.00-9.00pm\n📍In person at Lower Town Hall\, 483 George Street\, Sydney\, and online video on demand \nEveryone is welcome \nShechen Rabjam Rinpoche \nShechen Rabjam Rinpoche is one of the most highly revered masters in the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism and an important holder of its major lineages. Grandson and spiritual heir of the great Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche (1910–1991)\, he spent almost 25 years with his teacher and grandfather\, receiving extensive teachings\, empowerments and transmissions\, and continues that lineage today through his activities. \nRinpoche has not taught in Australia since 1996. He is greatly loved wherever he goes for his generosity\, his modern approach\, and his warm and endearing presence. \nMatthieu Ricard \nBorn in France as the son of French philosopher Jean-François Revel and artist Yahne Le Toumelin\, Matthieu Ricard is a Buddhist monk\, author\, translator\, and photographer. He first visited India in 1967 where he met great spiritual masters from Tibet. After completing his Ph.D. degree in cell genetics in 1972\, he moved to the Himalayan region to study and practice the Buddhist path. He served as Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche’s translator for more than twenty years. \nMatthieu is an international best-selling author and a prominent speaker on the world stage\, celebrated at the World Economic Forum at Davos\, forums at the United Nations\, and ad TED where his talks on happiness and altruism have been viewed by over seven million people. He will translate for Shechen Rabjam Rinpoche throughout this visit.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/a-conversation-between-shechen-rabjam-rinpoche-and-matthieu-ricard/
LOCATION:Lower Sydney Town Hall\, 483 George Street\, Sydney\, NSW\, 2000\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Featured Adelaide,Featured Brisbane,Featured Homepage,Featured Melbourne,Featured Newcastle,Featured Sydney,For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome,Online,Sydney - Everyone
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/SRR-MR-Public-talk-web-square.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261022T180000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261022T193000
DTSTAMP:20241120T083842Z
CREATED:20241118T042813Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241120T083842Z
UID:10003773-1792692000-1792697400@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:The All Encompassing Path to Enlightenment
DESCRIPTION:The All-Encompassing Path to Enlightenment (AEPE) is the main study programme in Rigpa\, for students of all levels: new\, more advanced or in-between. This year\, the AEPE will explore the main principles of the preliminary practices\, called Ngöndro in Tibetan. Our most experienced Rigpa teachers will guide us through the key principles of the Ngöndro\, helping us to explore these principles in a fresh\, up-to-date\, real life way\, while preserving their authenticity. \nThese practices are a complete path in themselves and also the foundation for Vajrayana and Dzogchen practice\, encompassing all the elements needed to prepare us to fully receive the Great Perfection teachings of Dzogchen\, the highest and most direct stream of wisdom within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. So no matter where we are on our path\, the AEPE will support us in taking it to completion.  \nThursday evenings\, all year\n 6:00-7:30pm AEDT (8:00am CET\, 2:00am Mon US East) \nOnline via Zoom
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/the-all-encompassing-path-to-enlightenment/2026-10-22/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Established Students,Newcastle - Established Students,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-All-Encompassing-Path.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261022T173000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261022T180000
DTSTAMP:20260831T115754Z
CREATED:20260831T115644Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260831T115754Z
UID:10010962-1792690200-1792692000@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Thursday Drop in Guided Meditation Sessions\, Rigpa Newcastle.
DESCRIPTION:Thursday Drop-in Guided Meditation Sessions.\n5:30pm to 6:00pm.\nHeld at Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown. NSW. 2290.\n  \nThe first and basic practice of meditation is to allow the mind to settle into a state of ‘calm abiding’\, where it will find peace and stability. Training in mindfulness and calm abiding (shamatha) meditation pacifies our scattered minds\, defuses our powerful emotions and overcomes distraction. \nThese sessions are perfect for busy people without any meditation experience\, right through to seasoned meditators. Step by step guidance will help you build confidence in your own meditation practice and inspire you to establish a daily practice. \nDetails\n\n\nled by experienced meditators  / Rigpa instructors\nno booking required\nmultiple short sessions of meditation\nsome gentle guidance\ncushions and seats provided\nFree but donation welcome.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/thursday-drop-in-guided-meditation-sessions-rigpa-newcastle/2026-10-22/
LOCATION:Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, nsw\, 2290\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Thursday-Drop-in-Meditation-2026-Newcastle-square.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261006T150000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261006T173000
DTSTAMP:20260712T010944Z
CREATED:20260712T010944Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260712T010944Z
UID:10010410-1791298800-1791307800@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Meditation and Wisdom to Transform Everyday Life
DESCRIPTION:The Tibetan Buddhist tradition’s meditative insights and timeless wisdom offer many practical methods to help us thrive and be at ease as we face the everyday challenges of anxiety\, depression\, anger\, loneliness and physical pain. \nThese Saturday afternoon sessions offer an introduction to meditation and practical advice from some of the foremost Tibetan Buddhist teachers of our age. \nThis Buddhist wisdom can help us: \n\nmeet the challenges of daily life in these difficult times\,\nheal ourselves\,\nconnect with the heart of who we really are\, and\nunleash our capacity for peace\, compassion and wisdom.\n\nEach session includes: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan and Western Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Dungse Jampal Norbu\, Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche\, Elizabeth Mattis Namgyel and Sharon Salzberg.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering you the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment and to connect with a community of practitioners.\n\n  \nSydney and Online   \n🗓️ Saturday afternoons\, first Saturday of the month\n⏰ 3:00-5:30pm AEST (6:00am CET\,1:00am US East)\n📍 Online via Zoom\, Rigpa Sydney 158 Australia St\, Newtown\n💰 $20\, concession $10\, free for Rigpa subscribers \n7 Feb\, 7 Mar\, 2 May\, 4 Jul\, 1 Aug\, 5 Sep\, 7 Nov\, 5 Dec\n(we’ll be holding other retreats in April and June) \nBook now \nAdelaide \n 🗓️ Saturday mornings\, first Saturday of the month\n ⏰ 9:30am-12:00noon Australian Central Time\n📍 Rigpa Adelaide\, 310 South Terrace\, Adelaide\n💰 $15\, concession $10\, free for Rigpa subscribers \nEmail adelaide@rigpa.org.au for details
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/meditation-and-wisdom-to-transform-everyday-life-7/2026-10-06/
LOCATION:Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown\, Sydney\, NSW\, 2042\, Australia
CATEGORIES:2026 - Starting Your Journey,Newcastle - All welcome
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Meditation-and-Wisdom-to-Transform-Everyday-Life-Email-Header-no-text.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261003T150000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261003T173000
DTSTAMP:20260818T105221Z
CREATED:20260327T045502Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T105221Z
UID:10009408-1791039600-1791048600@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Accentuate the Positive : How to Work with Negative Emotions | Meditation and Wisdom for Every Day
DESCRIPTION:Negative emotions such as anger cause us and others so much unnecessary suffering. In this session\, supported by teachings by Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche and Sharon Salzberg\, we’ll investigate how\, through meditation and reflection on some simple open questions\, we can ground ourselves in the face of negative emotions. \n  \nA session in the Meditation and Wisdom to Transform Every Day Life series. \n  \nSpend time with your best self on a journey from sadness and anger to peace and joy. The timeless wisdom and meditative insights of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition offer many practical methods to help us heal and thrive as we face the everyday challenges of anxiety\, depression\, anger\, physical pain\, loneliness\, and burnout. \nThis series of Saturday afternoon sessions offer an introduction to meditation and practical advice from some of the foremost Tibetan Buddhist teachers of our age. Applying these teachings can help us meet the challenges of these difficult times\, to heal ourselves\, and to bring us to the core of our own peace\, compassion and wisdom. \nLed by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience\, each session consists of: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Dungse Jampal Norbu and Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering you the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment and to connect with a community of practitioners\n\nDates and Topics for 2026 \n3 October        Accentuate the Positive: How to Work with Negative Emotions\n7 November    Beating Burnout and Stress\n5 December    How to Remain Unshaken By Life’s Ups and Downs \n📍 Online and Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/accentuate-the-positive-how-to-work-with-negative-emotions-meditation-and-wisdom-for-every-day/
LOCATION:Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown\, Sydney\, NSW\, 2042\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome,Online,Sydney - Everyone
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Accentuate-the-Positive.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260929T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260929T120000
DTSTAMP:20260711T012923Z
CREATED:20260711T012849Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260711T012923Z
UID:10010401-1790676000-1790683200@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Inspiring a Revolution in your Heart and Mind: Rebirth\, Karma and this Life | Newcastle | Day Class
DESCRIPTION:A module of Inspiring a Revolution in Your Heart and Mind.  \nThis is module five of a year-long course that students can join at any stage.  Each module focuses on a different topic and also functions as a stand alone class. You can join at any time and all are welcome. \nExplore the Buddhist reasoning for the acceptance of rebirth and reincarnation. We’ll use the Buddha’s Four Noble Truths as a framework to help us take stock of our lives\, inspire a shift in the way we see ourselves and the way we relate to the world around us. And we’ll examine karma\, which is often misunderstood as fate or pre-destination. If investigated more deeply\, karma inspires us with an appreciation of the power and agency of our own actions. \n\nJoin us on an experiential journey through The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying. Discover a deep and universal wisdom explored in the major themes of the book\, and learn about their practical implications for living well. Suitable for people of any religion or of none\, this course encourages you to reflect on the Buddhist teachings\, to see what makes sense to you and to experiment with applying these teachings in your daily life. \nThe Tibetan Book of Living and Dying is widely regarded as one of the most complete and authoritative presentations of Tibetan Buddhism. A manual for life and death and a source of sacred inspiration from the heart of the Tibetan tradition\, The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying provides a lucid and inspiring introduction to the practice of meditation\, to the nature of mind\, to karma and rebirth\, and to the trials and rewards of the spiritual path. The teachings\, meditation and contemplations from this authentic tradition reveal how each of us can live a more meaningful\, connected and fulfilling life. \nParticipants in this course will learn: \n\nHow to meditate\nHow an acceptance of impermanence can help us understand death and change our attitude towards life\nHow meditation can transform our perception\, increase our confidence and fully connect us to the world around us\nThat mind is much more than just thoughts and emotions\nHow understanding the interdependency of all things and the principle of karma (that every action has an effect) gives us a logical basis for ethics and personal responsibility\n\nLed by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience\, each session consists of: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan and Western Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Mingyur Rinpoche\, Pema Chödrön and Sharon Salzberg.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering you the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment.\n\nDetails \nWhat: Module 5\, Rebirth\, Karma and this Life. \nWhen: Tuesday mornings\, 1 September to 29 September. \nTime: 10.00am – 12.00pm \nWho: All welcome \nCost: 5 session module: Full $100\, Concession $50 \nFREE for Rigpa members/subscribers who may email newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request the discount code. \nIf you are experiencing financial hardship please email us at newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request a further concession.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/inspiring-a-revolution-in-your-heart-and-mind-rebirth-karma-and-this-life-newcastle-day-class/2026-09-29/
LOCATION:Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, nsw\, 2290\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Inspiring-Module-5-Newcastle.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260925T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260925T113000
DTSTAMP:20260529T032819Z
CREATED:20260529T032551Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260529T032819Z
UID:10010306-1790328600-1790335800@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Enlightened Courage: the Secret to Training and Transforming your Mind with Wisdom and Compassion. Term Seven\, 2026.
DESCRIPTION:Enlightened Courage: the secret to training and transforming your mind with wisdom and compassion. \nTerm 7\, 8 Sessions\, 24 July – 25 September\, including a 2 week break from 14 August – 21 August. \nOnline via Zoom and In Person\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, 2290 \nFridays\, 9.30am – 11.30am. \n/MAHAYANA/ \nThis class is a continuing course made up of terms. The class features teachings from Sogyal Rinpoche\, Jetsun Khandro Rinpoche and Patrick Gaffney\, this weekly course presents the Mahayana Seven Points of Mind Training. These points lay out a path of formal meditation practice\, along with guidelines for extending that practice into everyday life. \nThese teachings are precious and unique in presenting the entire depth and breadth of the Buddha’s Mahayana teachings succinctly and practically. Mahayana mind training offers an approach to life that is straightforward\, grounded in sanity\, kindness\, and compassion. Yet it also offers a vision that completely transcends our ordinary way of viewing ourselves and others\, with an all-encompassing vision of enlightenment. \nAt the heart of this vision of enlightenment is the view that our innate\, fundamental identity is vast\, luminous and utterly awake. The Mahayana teachings refer to this as our enlightened heart\, or bodhicitta. Enlightenment is nothing other than who we really are. But for most of us\, our true nature is like a hidden treasure\, concealed behind layers of mental activity and preoccupation. Mahayana mind training helps us give expression to our enlightened heart in everything we think\, say and do. \nFounded on a practice lineage that has been actively practised for hundreds of years\, these teachings are completely relevant to the challenges posed by our modern\, globalised life. \n 8 weekly classes: Term 7\, Friday Mornings\, Term 7\, 8 Sessions\, 24 July – 24 September\, including a 2 week break from 14 August – 21 August. \n 9.30am – 11.30am Australian Eastern Standard Time \nOnline via Zoom and In Person at 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown. 2290 \nfull $160\, concession $80 \nFree for Rigpa subscribers/ members (  please email newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request the subscriber discount code ). \nThis is the seventh term of a continuing course. If you wish to join after the first two weeks of a term then please register and pay a pro rata amount by sending  an email enquiry to newcastle@rigpa.org.au. If you are a newer student and would like to study this text please email Rigpa Newcastle at newcastle@rigpa.org.au. 
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/enlightened-courage-the-secret-to-training-and-transforming-your-mind-with-wisdom-and-compassion-term-seven-2026/2026-09-25/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Established Students,Newcastle - Established Students,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Enlightened-Courage.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260905T150000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260905T173000
DTSTAMP:20260711T014504Z
CREATED:20260327T044325Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260711T014504Z
UID:10009407-1788620400-1788629400@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Overcoming Depression | Meditation and Wisdom for Every Day
DESCRIPTION:The Buddhist path offers many tools for turning our mind away from depression and inspiring ourselves to take on a more positive\, uplifting frame of mind. In this session we’ll work with some simple practical techniques taught by Sogyal Rinpoche that can lift your mood quickly and reliably. \n  \nA session in the Meditation and Wisdom to Transform Every Day Life series. \n  \nSpend time with your best self on a journey from sadness and anger to peace and joy. The timeless wisdom and meditative insights of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition offer many practical methods to help us heal and thrive as we face the everyday challenges of anxiety\, depression\, anger\, physical pain\, loneliness\, and burnout. \nThis series of Saturday afternoon sessions offer an introduction to meditation and practical advice from some of the foremost Tibetan Buddhist teachers of our age. Applying these teachings can help us meet the challenges of these difficult times\, to heal ourselves\, and to bring us to the core of our own peace\, compassion and wisdom. \nLed by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience\, each session consists of: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Dungse Jampal Norbu and Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering you the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment and to connect with a community of practitioners\n\nDates and Topics for 2026 \n5 September   Overcoming Depression\n3 October        Accentuate the Positive: How to Work with Negative Emotions\n7 November    Beating Burnout and Stress\n5 December    How to Remain Unshaken By Life’s Ups and Downs \n📍 Online and Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/overcoming-depression-meditation-and-wisdom-for-every-day/
LOCATION:Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown\, Sydney\, NSW\, 2042\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome,Online,Sydney - Everyone
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Overcoming-Depression.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260804T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260804T120000
DTSTAMP:20260709T095935Z
CREATED:20260709T095841Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260709T095935Z
UID:10010393-1785837600-1785844800@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Inspiring a Revolution in your Heart and Mind: Bringing the Mind Home / Newcastle / Day Class
DESCRIPTION:Join us on an experiential journey through The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying. Discover a deep and universal wisdom explored in the major themes of the book\, and learn about their practical implications for living well. Suitable for people of any religion or of none\, this course encourages you to reflect on the Buddhist teachings\, to see what makes sense to you and to experiment with applying these teachings in your daily life. \nThe Tibetan Book of Living and Dying is widely regarded as one of the most complete and authoritative presentations of Tibetan Buddhism. A manual for life and death and a source of sacred inspiration from the heart of the Tibetan tradition\, The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying provides a lucid and inspiring introduction to the practice of meditation\, to the nature of mind\, to karma and rebirth\, and to the trials and rewards of the spiritual path. The teachings\, meditation and contemplations from this authentic tradition reveal how each of us can live a more meaningful\, connected and fulfilling life. \nParticipants in this course will learn: \n\nHow to meditate\nHow an acceptance of impermanence can help us understand death and change our attitude towards life\nHow meditation can transform our perception\, increase our confidence and fully connect us to the world around us\nThat mind is much more than just thoughts and emotions\nHow understanding the interdependency of all things and the principle of karma (that every action has an effect) gives us a logical basis for ethics and personal responsibility\n\nLed by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience\, each session consists of: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan and Western Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Mingyur Rinpoche\, Pema Chödrön and Sharon Salzberg.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering you the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment.\n\nThis is module four of a year-long course that students can join at any stage.  Each module focuses on a different topic and also functions as a stand alone class. \nModule 4 – Bringing the Mind Home \nTake a deep dive into a rich variety of meditation techniques to transform your moods and emotions. And discover how the whole purpose of meditation is to transcend our ordinary mind\, to discover our vast\, wise and compassionate fundamental nature\, which we have lost touch with. The highest goal of meditation is to awake in us the sky-like nature of mind and introduce to us who we really are: our unchanging pure awareness. \nThis topic is perfect for new people who wish to learn to meditate and others who wish to develop their meditation practice more deeply. \nWhen: Tuesday mornings\, 21 July to 4 August. \nTime: 10.00am – 12.00pm \nWho: All welcome \nCost: 3 session module: Full $60\, Concession $30 \nFREE for Rigpa members/subscribers who may email newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request the discount code. \nIf you are experiencing financial hardship please email us at newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request a further concession.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/inspiring-a-revolution-in-your-heart-and-mind-bringing-the-mind-home-newcastle-day-class/2026-08-04/
LOCATION:nsw
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Inspiring-Module-4-.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260801T150000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260801T173000
DTSTAMP:20260705T031815Z
CREATED:20260326T052725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260705T031815Z
UID:10009406-1785596400-1785605400@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Everything Is Workable | Meditation and Wisdom for Every Day
DESCRIPTION:The Buddha compared the universe to a vast interdependent net woven of a countless variety of brilliant jewels. Each jewel reflects every other jewel in the net. If we are interdependent with everything and everyone else\, even the smallest thought can have long-lasting consequences. This session presents a short teaching by Elizabeth Mattis Namgyel on how taking interdependence to heart can change the way we relate to trauma in our life and how we care for the people around us. \n  \nA session in the Meditation and Wisdom to Transform Every Day Life series. \n  \nSpend time with your best self on a journey from sadness and anger to peace and joy. The timeless wisdom and meditative insights of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition offer many practical methods to help us heal and thrive as we face the everyday challenges of anxiety\, depression\, anger\, physical pain\, loneliness\, and burnout. \nThis series of Saturday afternoon sessions offer an introduction to meditation and practical advice from some of the foremost Tibetan Buddhist teachers of our age. Applying these teachings can help us meet the challenges of these difficult times\, to heal ourselves\, and to bring us to the core of our own peace\, compassion and wisdom. \nLed by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience\, each session consists of: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Dungse Jampal Norbu and Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering you the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment and to connect with a community of practitioners\n\nDates and Topics for 2026 \n1 August          Everything is Workable\n5 September   Overcoming Depression\n3 October        Accentuate the Positive: How to Work with Negative Emotions\n7 November    Beating Burnout and Stress\n5 December    How to Remain Unshaken By Life’s Ups and Downs \n📍 Online and Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/everything-is-workable-meditation-and-wisdom-for-every-day/
LOCATION:Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown\, Sydney\, NSW\, 2042\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome,Online,Sydney - Everyone
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Everything-Is-Workable.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260725T180000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260725T203000
DTSTAMP:20260528T023108Z
CREATED:20260220T021140Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260528T023108Z
UID:10009027-1785002400-1785011400@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Self-Forgiveness in the Light of Compassion
DESCRIPTION:Discover how to live with a lighter\, kinder heart. Many of us carry beliefs that we’re unworthy of love or beyond forgiveness\, leaving us trapped in guilt and self-blame. But punishing ourselves only deepens our suffering and prevents us from realizing our natural state. Through insight\, compassion\, and guided meditations\, you’ll learn to soften your “inner critic\,” release false beliefs\, and understand why you can let yourself off the hook—all of which frees your heart. As you cultivate forgiveness and compassion for yourself\, you’ll naturally feel a genuine compassion and understanding for others—and the world. \nSeminar topics: \n\nThe spiritual dimension of self-forgiveness\nDismantling the barriers to forgiving oneself\nUnderstanding your life with compassion and insight\nTransforming your ‘inner critic’\nReally good reasons you can let yourself off the hook  \nMeditations that deepen compassion and forgiveness for yourself and others\n\n  \nFeedback from past participants \n“It was helpful to be constantly reminded that no matter what\, we are fundamentally good and our mistakes do not define us. They are only a very small part and we can always shift towards the centre of ourselves with love.” \n“Forgiveness – of ourselves and others\, frees us. The seminar is a rich and deep dive into self-forgiveness using experiential learning in a supportive\, engaging and accessible format\, and is inclusive to people of all and no faith traditions. The content and guided meditations draw on different sources and this\, along with the kindness\, clarity and skill of Christine act as an invitation to a more profound connection with our own basic goodness.” \n“The seminar has brought profound understanding and healing. It was both liberating and extremely challenging with the emergence of once unacknowledged emotions. A moving and heartfelt experience.” \n“The seminar was timely as I’ve had a few new challenges\, while already living in a shut-down state. I’ve been able to offer my younger self love\, compassion and forgiveness which in turn has softened my heart to others I’d been closed off to. Now\, I feel more open and spacious.” \n  \n3 sessions:\n20 June 6:00pm-8:30pm AEST\n27 June 6:00pm-8:30pm AEST\n4 July 6:00pm-8:30pm AEST \n(6:00pm AEST = 4:00pm  Hong Kong Time\, 9:00am GMT\, and 10:00am Central European Time) \nTime and date converter\nhttps://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/converter.html?iso=20260620T080000&p1=31&p2=240&p3=196&p4=102&p5=136&p6=103&p7=176 \nIf you need to miss one of these sessions\, you’ll be able to catch up by viewing a recording. \n  \nAbout Christine \nChristine Longaker is a pioneer of the hospice movement and author of Facing Death and Finding Hope \, translated into 9 languages. She’s  co-author of Are You Ready and of published research on the benefits of Spiritual Care Training. She founded Rigpa in the USA in 1981\, the Spiritual Care Education Program in 1993\, and co-produced an in-depth accredited Contemplative Palliative Care training at Naropa University. Christine has produced an album of meditations: “Joy\, Ease and Self-Forgiveness”\, guides self-compassion meditations online every Sunday and leads a yearly retreat in Sri Lanka. Christine infuses her seminars with heartfelt presence\, humor\, and clarity. Read more at www.christinelongaker.com.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/self-forgiveness-in-the-light-of-compassion-3/2026-07-25/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Featured Homepage,For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Self-Forgiveness-2026-text.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260709T183000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260709T201500
DTSTAMP:20260526T123517Z
CREATED:20260526T122701Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260526T123517Z
UID:10010285-1783621800-1783628100@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Inspiring a Revolution in your Heart and Mind/ The Deathless Unending Nature of Mind / Newcastle / Evening Class
DESCRIPTION:Join us on an experiential journey through The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying. Discover a deep and universal wisdom explored in the major themes of the book\, and learn about their practical implications for living well. Suitable for people of any religion or of none\, this course encourages you to reflect on the Buddhist teachings\, to see what makes sense to you and to experiment with applying these teachings in your daily life. \nThe Tibetan Book of Living and Dying is widely regarded as one of the most complete and authoritative presentations of Tibetan Buddhism. A manual for life and death and a source of sacred inspiration from the heart of the Tibetan tradition\, The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying provides a lucid and inspiring introduction to the practice of meditation\, to the nature of mind\, to karma and rebirth\, and to the trials and rewards of the spiritual path. The teachings\, meditation and contemplations from this authentic tradition reveal how each of us can live a more meaningful\, connected and fulfilling life. \nParticipants in this course will learn: \n\nHow to meditate\nHow an acceptance of impermanence can help us understand death and change our attitude towards life\nHow meditation can transform our perception\, increase our confidence and fully connect us to the world around us\nThat mind is much more than just thoughts and emotions\nHow understanding the interdependency of all things and the principle of karma (that every action has an effect) gives us a logical basis for ethics and personal responsibility\n\nLed by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience\, each session consists of: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan and Western Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Mingyur Rinpoche\, Pema Chödrön and Sharon Salzberg.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering you the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment.\n\nThis is module three of a year-long course that students can join at any stage. Each module focuses on a different topic. \nDetails \nModule Three: The Deathless Unending Nature of Mind \nWe have been taught to spend our lives chasing our thoughts and projections. Even when “mind” is talked about\, what is referred to is thoughts and emotions alone… We rarely look into the mind itself\, the ground from which all these expressions arise. \nIn this module\, we explore our thoughts\, emotions and mind to yield understandings that make meditation truly meaningful. The highest goal of meditation is to awaken in us the vast\, wise and compassionate\, sky-like nature of our mind and introduce to us who we really are: unchanging pure awareness. Instead of meditation being merely a way of bringing temporary relaxation\, it can become a powerful cause for your long-lasting happiness and the benefit of others. \n Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith St\, Charlestown.\n Thursday evenings\, this module runs for 5 weeks from 11 June to 9 July 2026\n 6.30pm – 8.15pm \n\nWho: All welcome \nCost: 5 session module: Full $100\, Concession $50 \nFREE for Rigpa members/subscribers who may email newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request the discount code. \nIf you are experiencing financial hardship please email us at newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request a further concession.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/inspiring-a-revolution-in-your-heart-and-mind-the-deathless-unending-nature-of-mind-newcastle-evening-class/2026-07-09/
LOCATION:Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, nsw\, 2290\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Inspiring-Module-3-Newcastle.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260707T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260707T120000
DTSTAMP:20260526T131613Z
CREATED:20260526T124802Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260526T131613Z
UID:10010298-1783418400-1783425600@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Inspiring a Revolution in your Heart and Mind: the Deathless Unending Nature of Mind / Newcastle / Day Class
DESCRIPTION:Join us on an experiential journey through The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying. Discover a deep and universal wisdom explored in the major themes of the book\, and learn about their practical implications for living well. Suitable for people of any religion or of none\, this course encourages you to reflect on the Buddhist teachings\, to see what makes sense to you and to experiment with applying these teachings in your daily life. \nThe Tibetan Book of Living and Dying is widely regarded as one of the most complete and authoritative presentations of Tibetan Buddhism. A manual for life and death and a source of sacred inspiration from the heart of the Tibetan tradition\, The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying provides a lucid and inspiring introduction to the practice of meditation\, to the nature of mind\, to karma and rebirth\, and to the trials and rewards of the spiritual path. The teachings\, meditation and contemplations from this authentic tradition reveal how each of us can live a more meaningful\, connected and fulfilling life. \nParticipants in this course will learn: \n\nHow to meditate\nHow an acceptance of impermanence can help us understand death and change our attitude towards life\nHow meditation can transform our perception\, increase our confidence and fully connect us to the world around us\nThat mind is much more than just thoughts and emotions\nHow understanding the interdependency of all things and the principle of karma (that every action has an effect) gives us a logical basis for ethics and personal responsibility\n\nLed by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience\, each session consists of: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan and Western Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Mingyur Rinpoche\, Pema Chödrön and Sharon Salzberg.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering you the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment.\n\nThis is module three of a year-long course that students can join at any stage. Each module focuses on a different topic. \nDetails \nModule Three: The Deathless Unending Nature of Mind \nWe have been taught to spend our lives chasing our thoughts and projections. Even when “mind” is talked about\, what is referred to is thoughts and emotions alone… We rarely look into the mind itself\, the ground from which all these expressions arise. \nIn this module\, we explore our thoughts\, emotions and mind to yield understandings that make meditation truly meaningful. The highest goal of meditation is to awaken in us the vast\, wise and compassionate\, sky-like nature of our mind and introduce to us who we really are: unchanging pure awareness. Instead of meditation being merely a way of bringing temporary relaxation\, it can become a powerful cause for your long-lasting happiness and the benefit of others. \n Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith St\, Charlestown.\n Tuesday mornings\, this module runs for 5 weeks from 9 June to 7 July 2026\n 10.00am – 12.00pm \n\nWho: All welcome \nCost: 5 session module: Full $100\, Concession $50 \nFREE for Rigpa members/subscribers who may email newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request the discount code. \nIf you are experiencing financial hardship please email us at newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request a further concession.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/inspiring-a-revolution-in-your-heart-and-mind-the-deathless-unending-nature-of-mind-newcastle-day-class/2026-07-07/
LOCATION:Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, nsw\, 2290\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Inspiring-Module-3-Newcastle.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260703T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260703T113000
DTSTAMP:20260325T102755Z
CREATED:20260319T061419Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T102755Z
UID:10009390-1783071000-1783078200@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Enlightened Courage: the Secret to Training and Transforming your Mind with Wisdom and Compassion. Term Six\, 2026.
DESCRIPTION:Enlightened Courage: the secret to training and transforming your mind with wisdom and compassion. \nTerm 6\, 11 Sessions\, 24 April – 3 July\, \nOnline via Zoom and In Person\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, 2290 \nFridays\, 9.30am – 11.30am. \n/MAHAYANA/ \nThis class is a continuing course made up of terms. The class features teachings from Sogyal Rinpoche\, Jetsun Khandro Rinpoche and Patrick Gaffney\, this weekly course presents the Mahayana Seven Points of Mind Training. These points lay out a path of formal meditation practice\, along with guidelines for extending that practice into everyday life. \nThese teachings are precious and unique in presenting the entire depth and breadth of the Buddha’s Mahayana teachings succinctly and practically. Mahayana mind training offers an approach to life that is straightforward\, grounded in sanity\, kindness\, and compassion. Yet it also offers a vision that completely transcends our ordinary way of viewing ourselves and others\, with an all-encompassing vision of enlightenment. \nAt the heart of this vision of enlightenment is the view that our innate\, fundamental identity is vast\, luminous and utterly awake. The Mahayana teachings refer to this as our enlightened heart\, or bodhicitta. Enlightenment is nothing other than who we really are. But for most of us\, our true nature is like a hidden treasure\, concealed behind layers of mental activity and preoccupation. Mahayana mind training helps us give expression to our enlightened heart in everything we think\, say and do. \nFounded on a practice lineage that has been actively practised for hundreds of years\, these teachings are completely relevant to the challenges posed by our modern\, globalised life. \n 11 weekly classes: Term 6\, Friday Mornings\, 24 April – 3 July. \n 9.30am – 11.30am Australian Eastern Standard Time \nOnline via Zoom and In Person at 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown. 2290 \nfull $220\, concession $110 \nFree for Rigpa subscribers/ members (  please email newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request the subscriber discount code ). \nThis is the sixth term of a continuing course. If you wish to join after the first two weeks of a term then please register and pay a pro rata amount by sending  an email enquiry to newcastle@rigpa.org.au. If you are a newer student and would like to study this text please email Rigpa Newcastle at newcastle@rigpa.org.au. 
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/enlightened-courage-the-secret-to-training-and-transforming-your-mind-with-wisdom-and-compassion-term-six-2026/2026-07-03/
LOCATION:Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, nsw\, 2290\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Established Students,Newcastle - Established Students,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Enlightened-Courage-Square-2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260606T080000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260610T153000
DTSTAMP:20260530T101626Z
CREATED:20260306T090105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260530T101626Z
UID:10009305-1780732800-1781105400@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:The Power of Your Mind: Kindness\, Clarity & Insight
DESCRIPTION:This five-day retreat will present the Mahayana Seven Points of Mind Training\, to lay out a path of formal meditation practice\, accompanied by guidelines for extending that practice into everyday life. \nThese teachings are precious and unique in presenting the entire depth and breadth of the Buddha’s Mahayana teachings succinctly and practically. Mahayana mind training offers an approach to life that is straightforward\, grounded in sanity\, kindness\, and compassion. Yet it also offers a vision that completely transcends our ordinary way of viewing ourselves and others\, with an all-encompassing vision of enlightenment. \nAt the heart of this vision of enlightenment is the view that our innate\, fundamental identity is vast\, luminous and utterly awake. The Mahayana teachings refer to this as our enlightened heart\, or bodhicitta. Enlightenment is nothing other than who we really are. But for most of us\, our true nature is like a hidden treasure\, concealed behind layers of mental activity and preoccupation. \nMahayana mind training helps us give expression to our enlightened heart in everything we think\, say and do. The training particularly focuses on our relationships\, which are like a mirror that shows us exactly where we are at. Our relationships also provide us with a way to dissolve the limitations that prevent the vastness of our true nature from fully manifesting. \nFounded on a practice lineage that has been actively and continually practised for hundreds of years\, these teachings are completely relevant to the challenges posed by our modern\, globalised life. \nTopics covered in the retreat will include: \n\nfinding meaning in our lives\, and connectedness with our world\novercoming loneliness and isolation\nhow to thrive in the face of difficulties\nhow to contribute to creating a more sustainable\, kind\, and compassionate world\n\nWe strongly encourage you to join us in person to get the most out of your retreat time. For those unable to travel to Sydney this retreat will be streamed to Rigpa’s centres in Adelaide and Melbourne. For those unable to attend a Rigpa centre\, a direct online option is also available. \nThis retreat will be led by Senior Teacher\, Jan van der Breggen\, along with a team of Rigpa Australia teachers and instructors. \nAbout Jan van der Breggen\n  \nJan is a teacher in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition and a scholar of Buddhist philosophy. He began the path of meditation at 17 years old\, touched by the tenderness of the human experience and filled with questions about what reality was all about. He soon encountered the writings of great masters from various traditions such as J Krishnamurti\, Suzuki Roshi\, Thich Nhat Hang and Sogyal Rinpoche. Thirty years later\, Jan continues to be moved by the vast profundity of the Buddhist path and its vision of the inherent wisdom\, loving kindness and strength that lies in the minds of each and everyone of us. \nJan was honoured to be entrusted by Khenchen Namdrol Rinpoche and Mindroling Jetsun Khandro Rinpoche as one of the twenty-five worldwide Rigpa Senior teachers. In 2017\, he was selected to be a participant in the Milinda program\, a 10-year\, international Buddhist teacher training program under the guidance of Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche. \nJan grew up in the Netherlands where he earned a Masters Degree in Historical Anthropology. He is fluent in English and Dutch. He lives in Brisbane where he works as a data analytics professional. Jan was instrumental in founding Rigpa Brisbane in 1999\, where he has served as a Dharma instructor for over 20 years.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/the-power-of-your-mind-kindness-clarity-insight/
LOCATION:Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown\, Sydney\, NSW\, 2042\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Featured Homepage,For Everyone,Melbourne - Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome,Sydney - Everyone
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Power-of-Mind-square-for-web.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260602T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260602T120000
DTSTAMP:20260327T220105Z
CREATED:20260319T061512Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T220105Z
UID:10009374-1780394400-1780401600@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Inspiring a Revolution in Your Heart and Mind: Impermanence\, Reflection and Change / Newcastle/ Day Class
DESCRIPTION:Join us on an experiential journey through The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying. Discover a deep and universal wisdom explored in the major themes of the book\, and learn about their practical implications for living well. Suitable for people of any religion or of none\, this course encourages you to reflect on the Buddhist teachings\, to see what makes sense to you and to experiment with applying these teachings in your daily life. \nThe Tibetan Book of Living and Dying is widely regarded as one of the most complete and authoritative presentations of Tibetan Buddhism. A manual for life and death and a source of sacred inspiration from the heart of the Tibetan tradition\, The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying provides a lucid and inspiring introduction to the practice of meditation\, to the nature of mind\, to karma and rebirth\, and to the trials and rewards of the spiritual path. The teachings\, meditation and contemplations from this authentic tradition reveal how each of us can live a more meaningful\, connected and fulfilling life. \nParticipants in this course will learn: \n\nHow to meditate\nHow an acceptance of impermanence can help us understand death and change our attitude towards life\nHow meditation can transform our perception\, increase our confidence and fully connect us to the world around us\nThat mind is much more than just thoughts and emotions\nHow understanding the interdependency of all things and the principle of karma (that every action has an effect) gives us a logical basis for ethics and personal responsibility\n\nLed by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience\, each session consists of: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan and Western Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Mingyur Rinpoche\, Pema Chödrön and Sharon Salzberg.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering you the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment.\n\nThis is module two of a year-long course that students can join at any stage. Each module focuses on a different topic. \nDetails \nModule Two – Impermanence\, Reflection and Change \nAll of us are touched by death in one way or another.  The Buddha said\, “If you want to know the truth of life and death\, you must reflect continuously on this: there is only one law in the universe that never changes—that all things change\, and that all things are impermanent.” \nIn the Buddhist approach\, life and death are seen as one whole. Death is a mirror in which the entire meaning of life is reflected. And we do not have to wait for the death of someone close to us to force us into looking at our lives. We can begin\, here and now\, to find meaning in our lives. \nCome with us on a journey investigating death and impermanence\, through deep reflection on change and interconnectedness\, to arrive at an appreciation of the vast potential of our own mind that is revealed when we let go of grasping at surface appearances. \nWhen: Tuesday mornings\, 5 May to 2 June. \nTime: 10.00am – 12.00pm (Australian Eastern Standard Time) \nWho: All welcome \nCost: 5 session module: Full $100\, Concession $50 \nFREE for Rigpa members/subscribers who may email newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request the discount code. \nIf you are experiencing financial hardship please email us at newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request a further concession.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/inspiring-a-revolution-in-your-heart-and-mind-impermanence-reflection-and-change-newcastle-day-class/2026-06-02/
LOCATION:Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown\, nsw\, 2290\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Inspiring-Module-2-Newcastle.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260502T150000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260502T173000
DTSTAMP:20260430T042936Z
CREATED:20251205T065450Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T042936Z
UID:10007316-1777734000-1777743000@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Calming the Mind and Overcoming Anxiety | Meditation and Wisdom for Every Day
DESCRIPTION:Fear and anxiety disempower us. In this session we’ll present a short teaching by Sogyal Rinpoche that will help us look into the underlying source of our fears so that we can find a firm basis for confidence and contentment. \n  \nA session in the Meditation and Wisdom to Transform Every Day Life series. \nSpend time with your best self on a journey from sadness and anger to peace and joy. The timeless wisdom and meditative insights of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition offer many practical methods to help us heal and thrive as we face the everyday challenges of anxiety\, depression\, anger\, physical pain\, loneliness\, and burnout. \nThis series of Saturday afternoon sessions offer an introduction to meditation and practical advice from some of the foremost Tibetan Buddhist teachers of our age. Applying these teachings can help us meet the challenges of these difficult times\, to heal ourselves\, and to bring us to the core of our own peace\, compassion and wisdom. \nLed by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience\, each session consists of: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Dungse Jampal Norbu and Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering you the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment and to connect with a community of practitioners\n\nDates and Topics for 2026 \n4 April              No session due to Easter retreat\n2 May              Calming the Mind and Overcoming Anxiety\n6 June             No session due to the Finding Inner Peace and Contentment retreat\n4 July               Where Can We Find Lasting Happiness?\n1 August          Everything is Workable\n5 September   Overcoming Depression\n3 October        Accentuate the Positive: How to Work with Negative Emotions\n7 November    Beating Burnout and Stress\n5 December    How to Remain Unshaken By Life’s Ups and Downs
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/calming-the-mind-and-overcoming-anxiety-meditation-and-wisdom-for-every-day/
LOCATION:Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown\, Sydney\, NSW\, 2042\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome,Online,Sydney - Everyone
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Calming-the-Mind-and-Overcoming-Anxiety.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260327T093000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260327T113000
DTSTAMP:20251128T024655Z
CREATED:20251128T024609Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251128T024655Z
UID:10006855-1774603800-1774611000@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Enlightened Courage: the Secret to Training and Transforming your Mind with Wisdom and Compassion. Term Five\, 2026.
DESCRIPTION:Enlightened Courage: the secret to training and transforming your mind with wisdom and compassion. \nTerm 5\, 8 Sessions\, 6 February – 27 March\, \nOnline – Fridays\, 9.30am – 11.30am. \n/MAHAYANA/ \nThis class is a continuing course made up of terms. The class features teachings from Sogyal Rinpoche\, Jetsun Khandro Rinpoche and Patrick Gaffney\, this weekly course presents the Mahayana Seven Points of Mind Training. These points lay out a path of formal meditation practice\, along with guidelines for extending that practice into everyday life. \nThese teachings are precious and unique in presenting the entire depth and breadth of the Buddha’s Mahayana teachings succinctly and practically. Mahayana mind training offers an approach to life that is straightforward\, grounded in sanity\, kindness\, and compassion. Yet it also offers a vision that completely transcends our ordinary way of viewing ourselves and others\, with an all-encompassing vision of enlightenment. \nAt the heart of this vision of enlightenment is the view that our innate\, fundamental identity is vast\, luminous and utterly awake. The Mahayana teachings refer to this as our enlightened heart\, or bodhicitta. Enlightenment is nothing other than who we really are. But for most of us\, our true nature is like a hidden treasure\, concealed behind layers of mental activity and preoccupation. Mahayana mind training helps us give expression to our enlightened heart in everything we think\, say and do. \nFounded on a practice lineage that has been actively practised for hundreds of years\, these teachings are completely relevant to the challenges posed by our modern\, globalised life. \n🗓️ 8 weekly classes: Term 5\, Friday Mornings\, 6 February – 27 March. \n⏰ 9.30am – 11.30am Australian Eastern Standard Time \n📍Online via Zoom \n💰full $160\, concession $80 \nFree for Rigpa subscribers/ members (  please email newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request the subscriber discount code ). \nThis is the fifth term of a continuing course. If you wish to join after the first two weeks of a term then please register and pay a pro rata amount by sending  an email enquiry to newcastle@rigpa.org.au. If you are a newer student and would like to study this text please email Rigpa Newcastle at newcastle@rigpa.org.au. 
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/enlightened-courage-the-secret-to-training-and-transforming-your-mind-with-wisdom-and-compassion-term-five-2026/2026-03-27/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Established Students,Newcastle,Newcastle - Established Students,Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Enlightened-Courage-Square.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260326T183000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260326T203000
DTSTAMP:20260302T012115Z
CREATED:20260121T005202Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260302T012115Z
UID:10009144-1774549800-1774557000@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Inspiring a Revolution in Your Heart and Mind | Newcastle | Evening Class
DESCRIPTION:Join us on an experiential journey through The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying. Discover a deep and universal wisdom explored in the major themes of the book\, and learn about their practical implications for living well. Suitable for people of any religion or of none\, this course encourages you to reflect on the Buddhist teachings\, to see what makes sense to you and to experiment with applying these teachings in your daily life. \nThe Tibetan Book of Living and Dying is widely regarded as one of the most complete and authoritative presentations of Tibetan Buddhism. A manual for life and death and a source of sacred inspiration from the heart of the Tibetan tradition\, The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying provides a lucid and inspiring introduction to the practice of meditation\, to the nature of mind\, to karma and rebirth\, and to the trials and rewards of the spiritual path. The teachings\, meditation and contemplations from this authentic tradition reveal how each of us can live a more meaningful\, connected and fulfilling life. \nParticipants in this course will learn: \n\nHow to meditate\nHow an acceptance of impermanence can help us understand death and change our attitude towards life\nHow meditation can transform our perception\, increase our confidence and fully connect us to the world around us\nThat mind is much more than just thoughts and emotions\nHow understanding the interdependency of all things and the principle of karma (that every action has an effect) gives us a logical basis for ethics and personal responsibility\n\nLed by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience\, each session consists of: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan and Western Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Mingyur Rinpoche\, Pema Chödrön and Sharon Salzberg.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering you the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment.\n\nThis is module one of a year-long course that students can join at any stage. Each module focusses on a different topic. \nDetails \nThis first module will give participants a taste of the main themes of The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying\, including meditation\, finding inner peace and contentment and the true nature of our own mind. \n“In this book I endeavoured to share some of the wisdom of the tradition I grew up in. I sought to show the practical nature of its ancient teachings and how they can help us at every stage of living and dying. Many people\, over the years\, had urged me to write this book. They said it would help relieve some of the intense sufferings that so many of us go through in the modern world.” \n– Sogyal Rinpoche \nWhere: In person at Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown. \nWhen: Thursday evenings\, 5 sessions\, 26 February to 26 March \nTime: 6:30pm-8:30pm AEDT \nWho: All welcome \nCost: 5 session module: Full $100\, Concession $50 \nFREE for Rigpa members/subscribers who may email newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request the discount code. If you wish to join the class after the first session of a module then please contact us via email to register. \nIf you are experiencing financial hardship please email us at newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request a further concession.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/inspiring-a-revolution-in-your-heart-and-mind-newcastle-evening-class-2-2/2026-03-26/
LOCATION:nsw
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle,Newcastle - All welcome
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Inspiring.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260324T100000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260324T120000
DTSTAMP:20260310T063446Z
CREATED:20260310T063446Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260310T063446Z
UID:10009353-1774346400-1774353600@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Inspiring a Revolution in Your Heart and Mind | Newcastle | Day Class
DESCRIPTION:Join us on an experiential journey through The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying. Discover a deep and universal wisdom explored in the major themes of the book\, and learn about their practical implications for living well. Suitable for people of any religion or of none\, this course encourages you to reflect on the Buddhist teachings\, to see what makes sense to you and to experiment with applying these teachings in your daily life. \nThe Tibetan Book of Living and Dying is widely regarded as one of the most complete and authoritative presentations of Tibetan Buddhism. A manual for life and death and a source of sacred inspiration from the heart of the Tibetan tradition\, The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying provides a lucid and inspiring introduction to the practice of meditation\, to the nature of mind\, to karma and rebirth\, and to the trials and rewards of the spiritual path. The teachings\, meditation and contemplations from this authentic tradition reveal how each of us can live a more meaningful\, connected and fulfilling life. \nParticipants in this course will learn: \n\nHow to meditate\nHow an acceptance of impermanence can help us understand death and change our attitude towards life\nHow meditation can transform our perception\, increase our confidence and fully connect us to the world around us\nThat mind is much more than just thoughts and emotions\nHow understanding the interdependency of all things and the principle of karma (that every action has an effect) gives us a logical basis for ethics and personal responsibility\n\nLed by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience\, each session consists of: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan and Western Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Mingyur Rinpoche\, Pema Chödrön and Sharon Salzberg.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering you the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment.\n\nThis is module one of a year-long course that students can join at any stage. Each module focusses on a different topic. \nDetails \nThis first module will give participants a taste of the main themes of The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying\, including meditation\, finding inner peace and contentment and the true nature of our own mind. \n“In this book I endeavoured to share some of the wisdom of the tradition I grew up in. I sought to show the practical nature of its ancient teachings and how they can help us at every stage of living and dying. Many people\, over the years\, had urged me to write this book. They said it would help relieve some of the intense sufferings that so many of us go through in the modern world.” \n– Sogyal Rinpoche \nWhere: In person at Rigpa Newcastle\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown. \nWhen: Tuesday mornings\, 5 sessions\, 24 February to 24 March \nWho: All Welcome \nTime: 10:00am-12:00pm AEDT \nCost: 5 session module: Full $100\, Concession $50 \nFREE for Rigpa members/subscribers who may email newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request the discount code. If you wish to join the class after the first session of a module then please contact us via email to register. \nIf you are experiencing financial hardship please email us at newcastle@rigpa.org.au to request a further concession.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/inspiring-a-revolution-in-your-heart-and-mind-newcastle-day-class-2/2026-03-24/
LOCATION:nsw
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Inspiring.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Newcastle":MAILTO:newcastle@rigpa.org.au
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260307T150000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260307T173000
DTSTAMP:20260302T013117Z
CREATED:20251205T064932Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260302T013117Z
UID:10007315-1772895600-1772904600@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:A Path to Fearlessness | Meditation and Wisdom for Every Day
DESCRIPTION:The sense of fear is a useful tool for survival. Living in fear for fear’s sake\, however\, can be paralysing. \nThis session will present a short teaching by Dungse Jampal Norbu as he explores the root causes of our fear\, and how we can cultivate the antidote to them. From the Buddhist view\, fear arises from three negative emotions: attachment\, aversion\, and ignorance. By investigating the source of our fears and confronting them with fierce compassion\, Buddhism offers a path away from fear and anxiety towards courage. \n  \nA session in the Meditation and Wisdom to Transform Every Day Life series. \nSpend time with your best self on a journey from sadness and anger to peace and joy. The timeless wisdom and meditative insights of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition offer many practical methods to help us heal and thrive as we face the everyday challenges of anxiety\, depression\, anger\, physical pain\, loneliness\, and burnout. \nThis series of Saturday afternoon sessions offer an introduction to meditation and practical advice from some of the foremost Tibetan Buddhist teachers of our age. Applying these teachings can help us meet the challenges of these difficult times\, to heal ourselves\, and to bring us to the core of our own peace\, compassion and wisdom. \nLed by Western meditation instructors with many years of experience\, each session consists of: \n\nVideo teachings from Tibetan Buddhist masters including Sogyal Rinpoche\, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche\, Dungse Jampal Norbu and Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche.\nMeditation practice\nTime for contemplation\nGroup discussions and Q&A\, offering you the opportunity to explore the teachings and practices in an open supportive environment and to connect with a community of practitioners\n\nDates and Topics for 2026 \n7 March           A Path to Fearlessness\n4 April              No session due to Easter retreat\n2 May              Calming the Mind and Overcoming Anxiety\n6 June             No session due to the Finding Inner Peace and Contentment retreat\n4 July               Where Can We Find Lasting Happiness?\n1 August          Everything is Workable\n5 September   Overcoming Depression\n3 October        Accentuate the Positive: How to Work with Negative Emotions\n7 November    Beating Burnout and Stress\n5 December    How to Remain Unshaken By Life’s Ups and Downs \n  \n📍 Online and Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/a-path-to-fearlessness-meditation-and-wisdom-for-every-day/
LOCATION:Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown\, Sydney\, NSW\, 2042\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome,Online,Sydney - Everyone
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/MaWtTEL-Mar-A-Path-to-Fearlessness-text.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260221T090000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260222T163000
DTSTAMP:20260122T101801Z
CREATED:20260109T051910Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260122T101801Z
UID:10007808-1771664400-1771777800@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:The "I can't meditate" trap (and how to escape it)
DESCRIPTION:A Weekend Course\, 21-22 February\, 9am – 4.30pm.\nFree introductory zoom call on Wednesday 11th February\, 7:00pm to 7:40pm.\nIn Person at Newcastle Rigpa Centre\, 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown 2290.\n  \nMany people believe meditation is something you either “get” or you don’t. They imagine a quiet mind or an instant sense of calm—then feel discouraged when thoughts inevitably show up! Western concepts of meditation have set us up to fail.\nMeditation isn’t about banishing thoughts to achieve peace. It’s about changing our relationship with thoughts\, so they no longer trigger anxiety\, fear\, or negativity. And it isn’t about becoming a different person. Meditation is about discovering the peace\, clarity\, and ease\, that are already there— hidden beneath our habits of rushing\, striving\, and self-criticism.\nThis weekend course is an invitation to step out of that pattern and explore and experience meditation in its most natural form without pressure or performance. \nFree introductory zoom call – This is a no obligation free introductory discussion about the weekend course “The ‘I can’t meditate’ trap (and how to escape it)”. You will meet the instructors Merryn and Craig who will describe the flow of the weekend\, the types of meditation practices we will do during the weekend and answer any questions you might have. Click this button to register for the zoom call.   \nWhat we’ll explore together\nAcross the weekend\, we’ll discover why trying to “force” meditation often backfires. Instead we’ll explore:\n• How genuine ease can arise naturally\nDiscover the quality of ease already present in your very being through meditation.\n• How mindfulness\, awareness\, and spaciousness work in everyday life\nNot as abstract concepts\, but as lived experiences that can shift how we respond to stress\, relationships\, and uncertainty.\n• How everything can become meditation\nSitting\, walking\, eating\, conversations\, movement—even the difficult moments. Life becomes the practice.\n• How to meet your mind with curiosity rather than judgment\nThis includes learning simple techniques to work with overthinking\, restlessness\, emotional turbulence\, and sensory overwhelm.\n• How change becomes possible without straining for it\nWhen awareness deepens\, clarity and resilience emerge on their own. \nWho this course is for\nThis weekend is designed for people who:\n• have tried meditating but feel they’re “not doing it right”\n• have never meditated but are keen to dip your toe in\n• are curious about meditation as a way of being\, not just a technique\n• feel stuck or overwhelmed and want a spacious reset\n• want to build confidence in their ability to find inner peace and calm \nWhat you’ll take away\nBy the end of the weekend\, you can expect to leave with:\n• a sense of ease you can access anytime\n• practical tools for navigating stress and change\n• a renewed relationship with your own mind and emotions\n• confidence that meditation is possible for you\n• a simple daily practice you can sustain \nWhy a weekend?\nA short immersion allows you to slow down just enough to notice what’s always been available but rarely seen. This often leads to breakthroughs that are hard to access in quick or isolated sessions. \nEvening Zoom call introduction – optional Wednesday 11 or 18th February\nThis is a free introduction to the weekend that you can attend as either a taster and introduction to the weekend or to help you decide if you want to attend the weekend course. \nMeditation style and instructors\nThe techniques taught will be secular but based on the Tibetan Nyingma Buddhist meditation methods that are our tradition. These methods have been passed down from teacher to student for centuries. \n \nMerryn Kennedy is a senior instructor with Rigpa Australia with over 30 years of meditation practice. She was a senior civil servant in the Commonwealth Government. Merryn is an active member of Rigpa supporting retreats throughout the year. She finds having a daily meditation practice not only brings a sense of optimism but is the key to being able to better respond to everyday events and setbacks. \n \nCraig Dalton has been an instructor with Rigpa for over 15 years. He spends between 4 to 8 weeks in retreat each year. He is a public health physician and credits meditation practice with guiding him through the challenges of both work and raising two boisterous boys. He was the course coordinator for Buddhist and other Contemplative Traditions at the University of Newcastle. \nWhat the schedule looks like\nWe will start the program at 9am each day and end no later than 4.30pm.\nThere will be a mix of sitting practice\, meditation instructions and discussion. Some meditation sessions will be guided and others will be personal practice. Challenges to practice and integration in daily life will be discussed. We will have two 20 minute breaks and a 40 minute lunch break. \nOn Sunday\, for those who would like to join us for a complimentary light breakfast\, we’ll be there at 8am. \nAccessibility statement \nThe venue is ground floor with good access for wheelchairs and those with reduced mobility. Unfortunately the toilet is not wheelchair-accessible. The room has opening windows for fresh air and air conditioning. It is a simple comfortable room\, with easy access to the outside\, and there will be an image or statue of the Buddha. \nSetting\nWe create a cosy and quiet atmosphere\, and people are welcome to take breaks outside whenever they wish\, or to lie down if they need. Merryn and Craig are available to chat and questions are encouraged. \nMaximum group size 25 people \nWhat you need to bring\nBring a water bottle. A cushion will be available if you want to sit on the floor or you can bring your own. Chairs are also available. There is no “dress code”\, just wear comfortable clothing. \nIf you’re ready to explore meditation in a fresh and empowering way\, this weekend is a place to begin. All are welcome. \nCourse Details \n Date – 21-22 February with a free introductory zoom call on Wednesday 11th February \n Time – 9am – 4.30pm (at the latest) \nPlace – 2/2 Smith Street\, Charlestown \nCost – $180 full and $90 concession (we want no one to miss out because of finances so please contact us at newcastle@rigpa.org.au if you need assistance)
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/the-i-cant-meditate-trap-and-how-to-escape-it/
LOCATION:nsw
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rigpa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Newcastle-Meditation-Weekend-Logo-Image.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260122
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260127
DTSTAMP:20251222T090148Z
CREATED:20251106T022218Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T090148Z
UID:10006836-1769040000-1769471999@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Know your mind\, transform your life
DESCRIPTION:This five-day retreat will take you to the heart of the revolutionary insight of Buddhism\, that life and death are in the mind\, and nowhere else. In Dzogchen—the most direct stream of wisdom within the teachings of Buddhism—the mind is revealed as the universal basis of experience: the creator of happiness and the creator of suffering. \nGuided by the teachings of the Buddha\, deep reflection\, and our own personal meditative insight\, we will investigate exactly how the mind is the root of our entire reality. This exploration leads to a profound certainty and confidence in our mind’s essence: the lucid\, pure awareness that underlies the whole of life and death. \nThe foundation of trust in our inherently pure nature\, allows us to investigate \n\nhow the mind’s unending display of thoughts and emotions are workable\nthe cognitive and emotional patterns of delusion that perpetuate samsara; and\nthe challenging\, yet liberating notion\, that ‘samsara is mind turned outwardly\, lost in its projection\, whereas nirvana is mind turned inwardly\, recognising its nature.’\n\nThis paves the way to the profound method of leaving the mind unaltered in its true nature\, finding a natural great peace\, bliss and clarity. \nThe retreat will allow for reflection and meditation on the teachings tailored to each participants’ prior experience: from complete beginners to ngondro\, and dzogchen practitioners. \nJoin us for a journey from our ordinary\, everyday mind\, to the true essence and nature of mind. \n  \n📍Rigpa Melbourne\, 803 Nicholson St\, Carlton North;\n📍Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown\n📍& Online \n(Those gathering at the Rigpa Melbourne Centre will view the live event from Sydney via Zoom. To attend the retreat at the Melbourne Centre\, please select the online option when registering. You may register to attend part or all of the retreat. Our Melbourne team will then be in touch to confirm arrangements.)
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/know-your-mind-transform-your-life/
LOCATION:Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown\, Sydney\, NSW\, 2042\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Established Students,For Everyone,Melbourne - Everyone,Melbourne Established Students,Newcastle - All welcome,Online,Sydney - Established,Sydney - Everyone
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ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Sydney":MAILTO:sydney@rigpa.org.au
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251206T150000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251206T170000
DTSTAMP:20250719T052637Z
CREATED:20250719T052637Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250719T052637Z
UID:10006472-1765033200-1765040400@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Break Free from Self Obsession
DESCRIPTION:  \nWe invite you to join us to investigate how self-centredness stacks up against a\nmore compassionate view\, look at some simple\, practical things we can do to\nsoften our self-obsession\, and introduce loving kindness practice\, one of the\ncore entryways into the vast toolkit of the Buddhist compassion practices. \n🗓️ Saturday 6 December \n⏰ 3-5pm AEDT (12 noon Perth\, 2.30pm Adelaide\, 5.00am CET\, 11 pm Friday US East\, 8:00pm Friday US West) \n📍Online & Sydney
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/break-free-from-self-obsession/
LOCATION:Rigpa Sydney\, 158 Australia St\, Newtown\, Sydney\, NSW\, 2042\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle,Newcastle - All welcome,Sydney - Everyone
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Sydney":MAILTO:sydney@rigpa.org.au
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251201T190000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20251201T210000
DTSTAMP:20251204T061816Z
CREATED:20251204T061747Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251204T061816Z
UID:10006694-1764615600-1764622800@rigpa.org.au
SUMMARY:Self Forgiveness in the Light of Compassion
DESCRIPTION:A seminar with Christine Longaker \nDiscover how to live with a lighter\, kinder heart. Many of us carry beliefs that we’re unworthy of love or beyond forgiveness\, leaving us trapped in self-blame. But punishing ourselves only deepens our suffering. Through insight\, compassion\, and guided meditations\, you’ll learn to soften your “inner critic\,” release false beliefs\, and understand why you can let yourself off the hook—all of which lightens your heart. As you cultivate forgiveness and compassion for yourself\, you’ll naturally feel empathy and understanding for others— which brings more kindness and healing into your family and the entire world. \nSeminar topics:  \n●      Dismantling the barriers to self-forgiveness \n●      Understanding your life with kindness and acceptance \n●      Transforming your “inner critic” \n●      A few good reasons to let yourself off the hook \n●      Meditations that deepen authentic compassion and forgiveness for yourself and others \n  \nAbout Christine Longaker \nChristine Longaker co-founded one of the first home care hospices in California in 1978\, and helped establish the international Spiritual Care Program in 1993\, in which she trained teams of caregivers who collectively brought the vision of compassionate care for the dying to over 30\,000 people. Her book\, Facing Death and Finding Hope: A Guide to the Emotional and Spiritual Care of the Dying\, is published in eight languages. For forty years\, Christine Longaker has become an internationally renowned teacher on meditation\, compassion\, and care for the dying. Her trainings inspired the founding of four hospices and two spiritual care centers. \nLongaker was developer and faculty for the six-month “Contemplative End-of-Life Care” training that was accredited by Naropa University in Colorado. The long-term benefits of spiritual care training were demonstrated in research she co-authored that was published in the Journal of Palliative Medicine in 2005. \nBecause self-compassion is the most vital ingredient for inner healing\, building resilience and the essential precursor to having compassion for others\, Christine Longaker’s vision is to bring the skills and methods of self-compassion to many areas of endeavor. This\, combined with her decades of spiritual training and skill in communicating with diverse audiences\, bring unique insights and powerful methods to the work.
URL:https://rigpa.org.au/event/self-forgiveness-in-the-light-of-compassion-2/2025-12-01/2/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom\, Australia
CATEGORIES:For Everyone,Newcastle - All welcome,Online
ORGANIZER;CN="Rigpa Sydney":MAILTO:sydney@rigpa.org.au
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