In Greek, chthonic means “beneath the Earth; of or relating to the Underworld.”

Is it possible that our current moment of ecological crisis is an underworld journey into the depths of our collective psyche? 

Many of us, particularly in Western cultures, long to break free from our materialistic and individualized worldview, and to step into the unknown. We might see our  growing collective interest in meditation, psychedelics and sexual freedom as a reflection of a deeper desire to surrender to the darkness of the Earth. 

In this weekend retreat, Jeanine Canty, PhD, professor and author of Returning the Self to Nature, will guide us in an exploration of the chthonic Earth and our relationship to it—examining our current ecological crisis, ecopsychology, collective narcissism, and how a reunion with the transpersonal realms of Earth may serve as a pathway towards collective healing.  

Participants should be prepared to work with heavy material and encounter difficult emotions, engage in experiential practices including guided meditation, and join in respectful, compassionate community.

Is this your first program with Tara Mandala? In celebration of our 30th anniversary, we’re offering all first-timers a special $30 introductory rate for this program. 

Who Should Attend? 
This program is open to everyone.

Recording Access:
All participants will have a 1-year access period to the recordings.

What is a Tara Mandala Online Program?
Tara Mandala offers online programming via live and pre-recorded curriculum that give you the opportunity to access dharma teachings, engage in guided practice, experience personal retreat and hands-on learning, while connecting with other participants through easy-to-use online platforms and an engaged community network. When needed, the program description and schedule will inform you in advance if and when a specific online session must be attended live if a direct transmission (Tib. lung) may be given. Access to recordings of all sessions will be available for additional viewing for one year. 

Tara Mandala Pricing Guidelines
As we work to become an equitable, diverse and inclusive community, our pricing guidelines are intended to be a map, inviting each of us to take inventory of resources that contribute to our access to precious dharma teachings. While we do ask you to look inward, please know there is no right or wrong answer. We encourage you to select the range/rate appropriate to your circumstances. To learn more about Tara Mandala’s pricing guidelines for Online Programs, In-Person Retreats, and Special Promotions, please visit this page. 

Installment Payment Plan Option at Registration
During registration, students can either pay the program fee in full or select the Installment Payment option. If choosing the installment payment option, students will pay a 50% deposit upon registering and subsequent equal payments will be processed automatically every two-weeks. The final balance is due 14 days before the start of the program.

Deferred Payment Plans and Financial Assistance
Tara Mandala offers two types of financial assistance: Deferred Payment Plans and Scholarships. You may apply for one or both of these types of assistance. Read the terms carefully as outlined on the financial aid application. Please see this page for further information.

Offering dana to the teacher: The practice of offering dana, which means “generosity,” is the traditional offering the student makes to the teacher as a symbol of appreciation, gratitude, and reciprocity for receiving the precious teachings. Information on offering dana to the teacher will be provided during the program. To learn more about dana and suggested dana ranges, please click here.

Sustaining Sangha:
If you are currently a member of our Sustaining Sangha, you may apply your Online Program discount to this course. To learn more about Sustaining Sangha membership, benefits, and discounts, click here. 

Click Here for Our Online Programs Cancellation and Refund Policy

PROGRAM SCHEDULE
The live sessions of the program are listed below. All times are Mountain Daylight Time. Please use this link to see how this daily schedule translates into your timezone.

Friday, September 13, 2024:
3:00-5:00pm (MDT): Opening Session

Saturday, September 14, 2024
9:00am – 11:00am (MDT):  Teachings & Practice Session
1:00pm – 3:00pm (MDT): Teaching & Discussion Session

Sunday, September 15, 2024
9:00am – 11:00am (MDT):  Teachings & Practice Session
1:00pm – 3:00pm (MDT): Closing Session