Dark Retreat Workshops

Using the absence of light over stretches of time is a practice found in virtually all the great spiritual traditions. It is an advanced technique in Tibetan Dzogchen practice to help the practitioner shed the external distractions, recognize internal distractions, and ultimately come to clarity and balance. This introductory workshop, led by dharma teacher and chaplain for Hart Island Justin von Bujdoss, contextualizes the practice, and aims to help workshop attendees anticipate what may or may not arise in a dark retreat setting. There will be a period of up to 20 minutes of complete darkness during the session.

Prior to the workshop, Justin von Bujdoss will lead a 5:15 PM tour of the Lukhang Murals located on the 2nd floor. The murals depict practitioners preparing to enter into dark retreats, a visual guide for participants to more fully understand this undertaking.