with Dr Brion Sweeney

Long-standing Tara Rokpa therapist, Brion Sweeney from Ireland, will be facilitating the retreat to be held at the centre.

The retreat is based on specific techniques given by Akong Rinpoche which are designed to enhance mindful awareness of daily activities in ordinary life. Exercises will be given to develop non-distracted attention of sitting practice, walking, drawing, conversing, and more. It will include sessions of shinay meditation.

The Tibetan word Shinay means “resting in peace or tranquility”. In the initial stages, the ability to be mindful is enhanced by connecting with a peaceful state of mind so we will practice this in conjunction with other mindful activities.

The method that Akong Rinpoche gave is deliberately designed to help Westerners so shouldn’t be too challenging.

Brion, a retired consultant psychiatrist also holds a Master’s degree in Psychotherapy. He has worked extensively with individuals and groups, in and outside of Tara Rokpa, since 1993. More recently Brion spent three years in retreat under the guidance of HE Tai Situpa Rinpoche. During his southern African visit, Brion will lead group workshops on the Tara Rokpa processes and will lead retreats in Zimbabwe and at Groot Marico Tara Rokpa Centre over the Easter holiday break.