Geshe Kelsang Gyatso explains in the book Heart Jewel what a retreat is. ‘On retreat we stop all forms of business and extraneous activities so as to emphasize a particular spiritual practice’. In these times when the flow of new impulses, activities and tasks we have to perform is never-ending, a time of retreat is a very precious and rare opportunity to enjoy a real break. During this time we enjoy conditions that allow us to create space both physically and mentally.

January holds a unique place in the Kadampa calendar, as it is traditionally an opportunity for practitioners to withdraw from busy activities and engage in retreats. In January the IKRCs offer longer retreats with qualified guidance so that people can gain deep experience of their practice. Everyone is welcome to join, whether for the entire retreat or just a portion of it.

Tharpa US offers a FREE 30-Day Meditation Challenge for those unable to attend in-person retreats. Receive daily guided meditations, tips, and inspiration to cultivate inner peace and build a lasting meditation practice from home.

Kadampa communities in Paris and Malaysia held blessing empowerments of Buddha White Tara and Avalokiteshvara giving their centers a great start to the year.