Dechen's centres and groups throughout the UK and worldwide offer a vast range of activities.
Buddhist Meditation Classes
Weekly meditation classes provide an introduction to two types of Buddhist meditation.
The class initially engages in guided calm-abiding meditation through which we can develop a stable, clear and peaceful state of mind. The reflective meditation consists of a brief explanation of a key Buddhist topic, followed by a period of individual contemplation.
Teaching Events
Dechen runs a programme of in-depth Buddhist teachings, from one-day events to longer courses. See the list of events.
Kagyu Shedra
Kagyu Shedra is an annual five-day course of teachings on major Buddhist texts composed by great Kagyu masters, such as Gampopa and the Karmapas. Read more about Shedras in Dechen.
Sakya Shedra
Sakya Shedra every two years, offers major teachings of the Sakya tradition at Sakya Changlochen Ling in France. These two-week courses focus on the works of the great Sakya masters. Read more about Shedras in Dechen.
Initiations
Receiving initiations enables one to practise the special meditation systems of the tantras.
See notes on initiations or the list of events.
Retreats & Meditation Days
Retreats and meditation days are held throughout the year. Contact your local group for more details.
Prayers & Meditation Practice
Prayers and meditation practice take place at our centres and groups every week. Contact your local centre for more details.
Study Groups
Study groups provide the opportunity to study texts taught by Lama Jampa Thaye and other visiting Lamas in more depth. The study groups are ideal for beginners who have been attending introductory classes for some time and wish to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the Dharma. Contact your local group for more details.