Exploring Buddhist Wisdom

Weekend Retreat on The Four Seals
with Susan Browne and Rob Van Willigen
Friday 8 November, 7.30pm to Sunday 10 November, 1pm

Buddhism is distinguished by four characteristics, or “seals.” The Four Seals are said to be the hallmark of the Buddha’s teaching and encapsulate the particular view or philosophy of Buddhism.

The Four Seals

  • All that is conditioned is impermanent,
  • All that is tainted is suffering,
  • All phenomena are empty and devoid of self,
  • Nirvana is peace.

By understanding the way Buddhists look at the world and view their experience, we can find a fresh way of living our lives. Join us for this weekend retreat where we will explore the buddhist view by studying the Four Seals.

We will explore how change is our constant companion, and learn how to relate to our emotions differently. We will examine how deepening our understanding of “emptiness” can help us develop a non-judgemental attitude towards ourselves and others, among other things.

During this weekend we will share the meaning of each of the Four Seals, reflect on what they mean to us personally and share our findings with others. You will leave with concrete exercises that you can apply again and again in your everyday life to further your understanding.

Location

The retreat will be held in our new Dzogchen Beara Temple. With expansive views across the bay, the temple is a modern example of a traditional Tibetan monastery, a form of architecture designed to be an inspiring symbol of the Buddha’s teachings for our times.

Catering

A delicious two course vegetarian lunch is provided each day, with soup and bread provided in the evenings. Cooked with love at Dzogchen Beara, using homegrown and organic ingredients whenever possible.

Book online now

Fee €275
Concession €235

Dzogchen Beara has a policy of not turning anyone away for financial reasons.
Please email info@dzogchenbeara.org to to discuss flexible payment options or request assistance from our retreat fund

 

 

Limited accommodation is available on-site. Book early!
A list of hostels, B&B’s self-catering accommodation and hotels in the local area is available here.

Vegetarian lunches and light evening meals are provided. The cost is included in your fee.

Online booking here

Enquiries by email or + 353 (0) 27 73032

To view our visitor information, please click here.

Susan Browne
Susan Browne
Susan Browne has over 30 years experience of Buddhist meditation and compassion practices. She has been guiding groups and individuals in retreat over the past 25 years, both at Dzogchen Beara, and at the Institute of Wisdom and Compassion, France. She herself has completed several years of closed retreat and many in-depth studies.
Susan specialises in one-on-one and small group sessions, giving guidance on meditation methods that best help move through challenges one is facing. www.restyourmind.ie
Rob Van Willigen
Rob Van Willigen
After reading The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying in 2001, Rob van Willegen found a Rigpa centre near his student flat in Groningen and enrolled in the first available course. He discovered the profundity of the Buddha’s teachings. He was encouraged by the advice to examine these teachings to see if they relate to our experience and enthusiastically took up this challenge. He has studied and practised Tibetan Buddhism ever since. Rob studied Dutch language and literature and combines a full-time job as a marketing and communications professional with Buddhist practice. Having benefited tremendously from the essential instructions on meditation, he believes they offer a perfect path in modern times.