Within Vajrayana Buddhism, deity yoga, or yidam practice, is a special meditation technique within which practitioners focus on transforming the experience of body, speech and mind into that of an enlightened Buddha. This is done through specific techniques involving visualization, mantra recitation, and developing a sense of pure view that the essence of our mind is the same as that of all awakened buddhas. These types of meditation practice extend as far back as the 7th century and are essential to the tantric path.

During this four-day retreat we will engage the practice of the female tantric Buddhist yidam (meditational deity) known as Vajravarahi – one of the most central and vitally important and powerful female yidams. Semi-wrathful in nature, Vajravarahi represents the unbridled flow of dynamic, passionate awakening. The retreat will begin with the bestowal of the initiation into the lineage of Vajravarahi practice
and the transmission of the practice from the Zhije (Pacification of Suffering) tradition founded by the great 10 th century South Indian Buddhist yogin, Padampa Sangye. It was Padampa Sangye who brought these teachings to Tibet.

Over the course of the rest of the retreat participants will receive instruction on yidam practice, Vajravarahi and other essential instructions along with periods dedicated to group practice. This is an excellent opportunity to delve deeply into the timeless heart of the tantric Buddhist path in a way that connects to the essence of a powerful, highly relevant lineage of practice in these times, with a teacher who is dedicated to the propagation of the wisdom available to us all in an embodied and individually authentic way.

Until further notice, registration for our residential programs is restricted to individuals who have or will receive their final Covid-19 vaccination at least two weeks before their arrival on site. We will be restricting total retreat capacity to allow for comfortable, unmasked participation, as well as the option of outdoor dining. Please be prepared to present proof of your vaccination upon request. We also require all registered participants to present negative results from a Covid test performed in the 3 days prior to the start of your retreat AND that you consent to being tested upon your arrival at Southern Dharma. Any rapid antigen test is acceptable for testing, including over-the-counter at-home tests.

Thank you for your understanding as we work to ensure the safety of our staff, teachers, retreatants, and larger community!

Check-in from 4-6pm; Early arrivals may be accommodated – email registrar@southerndharma.org to request.

Departures will take place by 2:00pm on the last day of retreat. Please make sure that you can attend the full program before registering.

For our 2023 retreats, three fee tiers are offered. Please choose the option that best fits your ability to give in this time. Any amount paid above the Base rate is a tax deductible contribution to Southern Dharma Retreat Center. Your confirmation email is your receipt for tax purposes.

We are deeply grateful for your support.

Note that registration fees do not include dana for the teacher(s). In the Buddhist tradition the teachings are offered freely and teachers are not paid for their offerings. They rely on dana contributions from students. Similarly, Southern Dharma keeps registration fees low to ensure the Dharma is accessible to all. Fees cover only a fraction of Southern Dharma’s operating expenses. We appreciate your practice of generosity to continue the dissemination of the Dharma.

Housing and all meals are included in the program fee. We are currently offering six housing options:

1. Bed in Lodge, shared double room (2nd floor)
2. Bed in Lodge, dorm with privacy partitions (3rd floor)
3. Unheated kuti (single cabin, outdoor bathroom)
4. Heated kuti (single cabin, outdoor bathroom)
5. Canvas Tent (furnished, outdoor bathroom)
6. Basic Tent Platform

Please use the appropriate field in the registration process to let us know your preferences in regards to housing, if any, and also specify if you insist on or prefer being housed with others of the same gender. All housing options are priced the same except for the Basic Tent Platform.

Southern Dharma is now offering 50% scholarship awards for BIPOC and Young Adults, in addition to those with financial need. Indicate your interest in a Southern Dharma in-house scholarship during the registration process.

This program is also eligible for Hemera Contemplative Fellowships. Please note that you must apply for the Fellowship prior to registering for any program. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.