• Cittamani Tara: Entering the Heart of the Practice

    Hybrid

    Four Teachings on Pabongka Rinpoche's Commentary to the Long Sadhana of Cittamani Tara by Gyumed Khensur Rinpoche Lobsang Jampa   Hybrid teaching Zoom or in person at Rinpoche's residence in San Jose, CA - address provided after registration   Teaching Schedule 4 Saturday mornings - 9:30am to 12:00pm Pacific Time (with break) September 26 October 3 October17 October 31   About the Teaching The Long Sadhana of Cittamani Tara is one of the most profound and complete practices of Arya Tara, bringing together the essential stages of the Vajrayana path within a single meditation. Rich in symbolism and meaning, it offers a powerful method for developing compassion, wisdom, and the swift accomplishment of both temporary and ultimate aims. In this four-session series, Rinpoche will explore Pabongka Rinpoche's renowned commentary on the practice, unpacking the meaning behind each stage of the sadhana—from refuge and bodhicitta in the generation stage practice through meditation, mantra recitation, and dedication. These teachings illuminate not only what to do during the practice, but why each element is included, allowing the meditation to become increasingly clear, alive and transformative. Whether you are new to the long sadhana or have been practicing it for many years, these teachings […]

    $108
  • Vajrayogini Initiation and Commentary

    In-person

    The Highest Yoga Tantra practice of Vajrayogini is especially effective in “degenerate times” as it skillfully cuts through ignorance and cultivates profound wisdom, love, and compassion.  We are so fortunate that His Eminence Gyumed Khensur Rinpoche Lobsang Jampa will return to Vajrapani Institute from October 7 to 11, 2026, to bestow the Highest Yoga Tantra Vajrayogini initiation and commentary.   This sacred initiation and commentary offers a rare and precious opportunity for practitioners who are prepared to wholeheartedly engage in the profound practices of Highest Yoga Tantra.   This program is in-person only.   Prerequisites and Highest Yoga Tantra requirements Have taken Refuge in the three jewels Have Mahayana intention inspired by Bodhicitta, and faith in the Vajrayana Have previously received at least one of the following Highest Yoga Tantra empowerments: Kalachakra, Yamantaka, Heruka, Guhyasamaja and Hevajra.   How to Apply To apply for the Vajrayogini Initiation, please verify your previous highest yoga tantra initiation by using this application form.    Commitments During the initiation, Rinpoche will determine any specific commitments. Please be prepared to take on daily commitments as part of your practice.   Tentative schedule will be posted closer to the event   Registration Closes September 30, 2026 […]

  • Cittamani Tara Approximation Retreat

    In-person

    Arya Tara (Tib. Drol-ma), the “Liberator,” swiftly delivers the blessings of the buddhas and bodhisattvas to those who make their minds receptive through deep practice, particularly in a retreat setting. She is able to do this because she is the manifestation of the purified action-wind of all the buddhas. During tumultuous times, Cittamani Tara practice becomes especially vital for clearing inner and outer obstacles and bringing protection. Through this Cittamani Tara retreat, we draw closer to her while strengthening our altruistic motivation and our ability to directly benefit ourselves and others. This approximation retreat is open to all who have the prerequisites outlined below. It also provides an opportunity for those who have recently received the Cittamani Tara initiation from Gyumed Khensur Rinpoche, together with the commentary to be offered in September/October 2026 (to be confirmed over 4 Saturday mornings), to undertake and complete the 100,000-mantra recitation. The main purpose of this approximation retreat is to experience Cittamani Tara practice through the actual practice of the sadhana and the completion of the mantra commitment. This will be the primary focus of the retreat. Consequently, apart from personal questions that you may have, which Ven. Angie will be available to help with, […]