MEDICINE BUDDHA RETREAT:
information & registration

no experience necessary – come as you are

Friday, evening | May 15 | 6:30pm–8:00pm
Introduction to Medicine Buddha Practice

An introduction to Sangye Menla, the Buddha of Healing, and the practice that invokes him. Drupon Palkyi will guide us through the visualization, mantra, and meaning of the practice we’ll do together over the weekend.

Saturday morning | May 16 | 9:30am–noon
Achi Chokyi Drolma practice then
Medicine Buddha practice as a sangha

Each morning opens with Achi Chokyi Drolma, the Drikung lineage’s protector who clears outer and inner obstacles. We’ll then chant the Medicine Buddha sadhana together — mantra, visualization, and shared aspiration for the healing of ourselves and the world.

Saturday afternoon | May 16 | 1:30pm–4:00pm
Instruction in Shamata meditation
—developing stability in calm abiding

Step-by-step instruction in the foundational practice of stabilizing the mind. Calm abiding is the ground all other practice rests on — and is itself healing, releasing agitation and returning the mind to its natural ease.

Sunday morning | May 17 | 9:30am–noon
Achi Chokyi Drolma practice then
Medicine Buddha practice as a sangha

On Sunday morning we will continue practicing the Medicine Buddha sadhana together, deepening Saturday’s practice.

Sunday afternoon | May 17 | 1:30pm–4:00pm
Instruction in Vipassana meditation
—gaining insight into the nature of mind

Building on Saturday’s calm-abiding instruction, we turn toward insight — looking directly at the nature of mind and experience. In the Tibetan tradition, this is the practice that cuts the root of suffering at its source.

REGISTRATION

This retreat is offered on a sliding scale donation basis — please choose the level that feels right for your financial situation. All are welcome regardless of ability to pay.

Supported rate — $45 (for those with limited financial means)
Standard rate — $90 (suggested for most participants)
Sustaining rate — $120 (for those who are able to give a little more)
Benefactor rate — $150 (for those who wish to support others’ participation)

No-one will be turned away due to lack of funds. If cost is a barrier, please reach out at sangha@milarepaiowa.org.

Your generosity sustains our center and makes these teachings available to everyone.

VOLUNTEER

A retreat is held up by many hands. If you’d like to contribute — through cleanup, transportation, offering a meal, or anything else — we’d be grateful to hear from you. Volunteering is itself a practice, and a beautiful way to connect with the sangha.

Email sangha@milarepaiowa.org to volunteer.

LOCATION

Friday thru Sunday events will be held at Garchen Mila Buddhist Center:
The Paul Helen Building
209 E Washington St., Suite 200, Iowa City, 52240

Several parking garages are located nearby.

Out of Town Guests:
The nearest airport is The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID). It is in Cedar Rapids, about 30 minutes from Iowa City. If you are flying in from out of town, let us know and a sangha member can pick you up at the airport: admin@activateiowa.org

A NOTE ON TRADITIONAL ETIQUETTE

A few small customs from the Tibetan tradition that may be helpful to know:

Please don’t point your feet toward the lama, the shrine, or sacred texts. If you’re seated on the floor, simply tuck your feet under you or to the side. If sitting comfortably this way isn’t possible for your body, using a chair is entirely welcome and respectful.

Please don’t place sacred texts or dharma books directly on the floor. Books and texts are treated as embodiments of the teachings themselves. We have small tables for texts.

You may notice people standing when the lama enters or leaves the room, and bowing or placing palms together at the heart in greeting. You’re welcome to follow along when it feels natural, or simply observe.

There’s no expectation that newcomers know all the forms — the teachers care most about your willingness to be present and practice. Relax and follow along.

WHAT TO EXPECT AND HOW TO PREPARE

Seating: Both meditation cushions and chairs are available. 

What to wear: Dress comfortably in clothing that allows you to sit for extended periods — loose, layered clothing works well. The temperature in the practice space can shift, so a light sweater or shawl is often appreciated. Please remove your shoes before entering the practice area.

Bring: A water bottle, a notebook if you’d like to take notes, and any personal practice items you may have. 

Arriving: Please arrive 10–15 minutes early to settle in. The Center is on the second floor of the Paul-Helen Building (209 E Washington St., Suite 200). The elevator opens directly to our doorway, and the building is accessible.

No experience necessary. Whether this is your first time meditating or you’ve practiced for years, you are warmly welcome. Drupon Palkyi will guide each session step by step.

Lunch. On Saturday and Sunday, lunch is on your own. The retreat is located in downtown Iowa City, so there are plenty of nearby restaurants to explore on foot. We often take lunch together with Drupon Palkyi at a nearby Indian restaurant. Everyone is welcome to join us there.