A Tara Mandala  Daylong Practice Intensive – ONLINE 

The profound practice of Dentog Chigma, Liberation on One Seat, is “at the absolute core of Machig’s lineage” according to Lama Tsultrim. It combines the melodic and rhythmic aspects of traditional Chöd with the visualization and mantra recitation of Tibetan Buddhist deity practice. The practitioner engages with various forms of Machig Labdrön – including a wrathful emanation – through purification, receiving blessings, radiant compassion, and ultimately the awareness of our inseparability from the ground of being. As such, it is an incredibly dynamic and transformative practice. It is the main sadhana practice within the Rinchen Trengwa, “Precious Garland,” the collection of practices in Machig’s kama (oral) lineage compiled in the 14th century by Karmapa Rangjung Dorje and Karma Chakme. This specific practice was transmitted by Lama Tsering Wangdu Rinpoche.

We invite anyone who has already received instruction in the Dentog Chigma Chöd to join us for a day of practice, teachings and reflection. We’ll dive into key sections of the practice, including visualizations, and reflect on the inner meaning of the teachings embedded in this powerful practice. This is also an opportunity to revisit melodies, drum rhythms, and mudras and to address any of your questions. We’ll engage in joyful community through shared practice, dialogue, and a closing tsog. 

Who Should Attend? 

• This retreat is open to all practitioners who already know and have received teachings and transmission of the Dentog Chigma Chöd practice. Please note that no instruction will be provided during this retreat.

To prepare for this retreat, you will need:

• Participants will need to have a Chöd drum and bell, which can be purchased through the Tara Mandala online store.

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 Program Pricing

GENEROSITY RANGE 

Choose an amount within this range if you have the financial security and capacity to support Tara Mandala at a higher level. The contributions we receive within this range make it possible for us to offer a below-cost Access Range to those practitioners with a limited income.

 This range is for you if you:

• Own your own home and live comfortably without financial worry
• Have investments and savings 
• Easily have access to money in times of need or emergencies
• Have the desire to help make the Dharma more accessible to others

SUSTAINABILITY RANGE  

Choose an amount within this range if you have the financial capacity to sustain Tara Mandala’s ability to offer high-quality programs. The contributions we gratefully receive within this range enable us to keep our prices low while covering the basic program costs. 

 This range is for you if you:

• Have the capacity to meet your basic financial needs
• Make your rent or mortgage and other monthly payments 
• Are generally able to purchase new items and experiences for yourself
• Can afford to take trips and go on retreats

ACCESS RANGE  

Choose an amount within this range if you have limited financial capacity or are currently experiencing financial hardship. The contributions we gratefully receive within this range go toward covering costs and are supported by contributions of those who choose the Generosity Range.

 This range is for you if you:

• Have difficulty meeting your basic financial needs 
• Are experiencing housing, employment, or income instability
• Live paycheck-to-paycheck and and lack money in times of need
• Face challenges due to devaluation of your currency against the US dollar. 

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 virtual retreat. To learn more about dana and suggested dana ranges, please click here. 

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.

Sustaining Sangha:
If you are currently a member of our Sustaining Sangha, you may apply your Retreat discount to this course.

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.

 Saturday, April 29, 2023:
8:00am – 9:00am: Opening Introduction & Practice Session
10:00am – 12:00pm: Dharma Talk and Discussion
1:00pm – 3:00pm: Closing Practice Session & Tsog