Shambhala Centers
Over 100 Shambhala Centers located throughout the world provide a common ground where the various activities of Vajradhatu, Shambhala Training, and Nalanda can all take place. These include:
• Group meditation practice;
• Buddhist educational programs;
• Shambhala Training events and programs;
• Nalanda activities such as kyudo and ikebana;
• Cultural events, including community gatherings, celebration of holidays, weddings, funerals; and
• children's celebrations.
At the heart of each Shambhala Center is the meditation hall, where students practice the discipline of meditation that is at the core of all Shambhala activity. The meditation hall offers a beautiful, open, and protected space for practice, instruction, and community gatherings.
A Shambhala Center is also home to arts and disciplines such as flower arranging, bowmanship, and photography. Health, business, and education groups, all influenced by meditation practice, use the facilities to meet, study, and offer educational programs. Members and friends form a diverse and caring community committed to developing our human potential. Learning to meditate at a Shambhala Center carries no obligations, financial or otherwise. Membership is optional and open to those who commit to practicing meditation, wish to support the center financially, and volunteer their energies in the service of others.
Practice Centers
Shambhala International has six major residential contemplative centers. These centers provide the opportunity for intensive practice and study in contemplative settings, as well as for programs of longer duration. Practice centers are usually in a rural setting, and offer programs for beginners and more advanced students, as well as opportunities for individual retreat.
The programs offered vary from center to center, but nearly all offer month-long meditation programs, public weekend programs, solitary retreats, and intensive study programs for all levels of students.
At a practice center, you can live either in tents, dormitories, or rooms. All meals are provided, and typically there are about eight to ten hours of meditation and study a day. As a participant you will be asked to help with rota – taking care of what needs to be done to keep the center functioning.
It is also possible to live at a contemplative center for an extended period of time, participating in the regular practice and study schedule of the staff. Costs vary, and interested persons should contact the center directly. For contact information and to find out more about these centers, explore the links.
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