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Long Duration Retreats
Why
do a Retreat ?
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The
three-year retreat centres offer the possibility
of intensive, uninterrupted practice which leads
to a deep understanding of the Dharma. During these
retreats, the heart of Karma Kagyu practice - Mahamudra
and the Six
Dharmas of Naropa - is transmitted. Men and women
who apply the teachings in a sincere and selfless
manner during one or two retreats can free themselves
from the control that emotions usually have over
us, thus progressively acquiring the qualities necessary
to become a lama. In this position one has the ability
to preserve and transmit the teachings authentically.
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In
order to carry out a three-year retreat it is essential
to have already developed the Bodhisattva's
motivation. One should have a sincere commitment to
helping others on the path to enlightenment, and an
intensive practice which enables true qualities to develop.
All candidates therefore need a thorough preparation
of several years. This preparatory process combining
work for the community with study and practice is a
traditional feature of the Karma
Kagyu school.
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