BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Clear Sky Meditation Centre - ECPv6.16.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Clear Sky Meditation Centre REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Edmonton BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20220313T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20221106T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20230312T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20231105T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20240310T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20241103T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20250309T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20251102T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20260308T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20261101T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20270314T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20271107T080000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260726T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260816T110000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20251217T031307Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260503T224436Z UID:26795-1785058200-1786878000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Emotional Intelligence (Online) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/emotional-intelligence-online-course/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Emotional-Intelligence-Square.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Clear Sky Center":MAILTO:contact@clearskycenter.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260710T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260712T170000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20251220T181131Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260625T025455Z UID:26898-1783702800-1783875600@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:As the Spirit Moves (In-Person & Online) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/as-the-spirit-moves-2026/ LOCATION:Clear Sky Meditation Center\, 3567 Cockell Road\, PO BOX 19\, Fort Steele\, British Columbia\, V0B 1NO\, Canada CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/As-the-Spirit-Moves-Weekend-Course.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260327 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260406 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20251110T181955Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T020721Z UID:26461-1774569600-1775433599@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Vipassanā Meditation Retreat (In-Person & Online Retreat) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/vipassana-meditation-retreat-in-bc-rocky-mountains/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2025-PD-courses-Square-IG-Post-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260321T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260321T110000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20260202T051633Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260315T145014Z UID:27430-1774085400-1774090800@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Psynauts Vol 1: Book Launch (Online Event) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/psynauts-book-launch-celebration-online/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Online Courses,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Psynauts-Book-Launch-Square.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260118T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260208T110000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20251110T183109Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T062956Z UID:26460-1768728600-1770548400@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Integral Evolution: The Next Frontier (Online Course) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/integral-evolution-the-next-frontier-online-course/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2025-PD-courses-Square-IG-Post-4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260101T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260101T153000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20251217T031804Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251217T034539Z UID:26793-1767277800-1767281400@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:New Year Special 2026 (In-Person & Online) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/new-year-special-2026/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Online Courses,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/New-Year-Talk-Square.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251221 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260104 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20250704T015406Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T183229Z UID:25092-1766275200-1767484799@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Sangha Christmas Retreat (In-Person & Online Retreat) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/sangha-christmas-retreat/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sangha-Christmas-Retreat.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20251004T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20251005T200000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20250814T133531Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T024844Z UID:25834-1759568400-1759694400@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:One year anniversary of Qapel's passing DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/one-year-anniversary-of-qapels-passing/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Qapel-Doug-Duncan.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20250711T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20250713T170000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20250124T040517Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T075608Z UID:23732-1752253200-1752426000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:As the Spirit Moves DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/as-the-spirit-moves-2025/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/As-the-Spirit-Moves-Weekend-Course.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250613 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250623 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20241024T232522Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T075323Z UID:22596-1749772800-1750636799@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Vipassana Meditation Retreat in BC Rocky Mountains DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/vipassana-insight-retreat/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2025-PD-courses-Square-IG-Post-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20250413T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20250504T110000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20250124T184949Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T095630Z UID:23760-1744536600-1746356400@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Joy! Fuel for Awakening (Online) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/joy-online-course/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Joy-Online-Course.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20250321T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20250323T150000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20241128T230819Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T102031Z UID:23142-1742576400-1742742000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Dharma in the Stars: Integrating Saturn DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/dharma-in-the-stars-integrating-saturn/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Dharma-and-Astrology-Course.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20250112T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20250202T110000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20240829T175029Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260716T091643Z UID:22571-1736674200-1738494000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Waking Up & Growing Up: Integral Evolution (Online) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/integral-buddhism/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2025-PD-courses-Square-IG-Post-3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20241224T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20241224T160000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20241220T190242Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T075733Z UID:23593-1735050600-1735056000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Qapel: Life and Teachings Christmas Celebration DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/qapel-celebration/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Online Courses,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2025-PD-courses-Square-IG-Post-7.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241222 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250105 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20241107T185825Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T173441Z UID:23426-1734825600-1736035199@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Sangha Christmas Retreat DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/sangha-christmas-retreat-2024/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sangha-Christmas-Retreat.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20241208T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20241208T100000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20240908T211533Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260310T101650Z UID:22893-1733648400-1733652000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Body\, Speech & Mind eBook Launch Celebration (Online) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/body-speech-mind-ebook-launch/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Online Courses,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Book-Launch.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20241110T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20241201T110000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20240805T174051Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251206T085614Z UID:21973-1731231000-1733050800@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Understanding The Power of Sangha & Group Guru DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/the-power-of-sangha-group-guru/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Online Courses,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Sangha-Group-Guru-Online-Course.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20241018T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20241020T150000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20240122T001318Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T134410Z UID:21146-1729270800-1729436400@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Hamster Wheel or Heaven? The Wheel of Dependent Origination (In-Person and Online) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/interdependent-origination-paticcasamuppada/ LOCATION:Clear Sky Meditation Center\, 3567 Cockell Road\, PO BOX 19\, Fort Steele\, British Columbia\, V0B 1NO\, Canada CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/2025-PD-courses-Square-IG-Post-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240921T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240922T203000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20240822T172234Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250823T082059Z UID:22674-1726911000-1727037000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Clear Sky's 20th Anniversary Celebration! DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/20th-anniversary/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20th-Anniversary.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240712T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240714T170000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20231211T225851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T101138Z UID:20667-1720803600-1720976400@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Razor's Edge: The Dance of Absolute & Relative Truths (In-Person and Online) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/absolute-relative-truth-online-retreat/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2024-PD-courses-Square-IG-Post-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240524T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240602T150000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20230907T232718Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T101545Z UID:20221-1716562800-1717340400@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Breathing Meditation Retreat DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/breathing-meditation-retreat-2024/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Breathing-Meditation-Retreat-Square.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240308T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240317T170000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20231212T032055Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T075825Z UID:20687-1709924400-1710694800@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:The Five Stages of Emptiness Meditation Retreat (In-Person or Online) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/five-stages-emptiness-retreat-online/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2024-PD-courses-Square-IG-Post-4.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20231006T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20231022T170000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20230206T002516Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260310T103246Z UID:18754-1696579200-1697994000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:The Mind’s Cutting Edge: 12 Manjushris Meditation Retreat DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/12-manjushri-retreat/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Manjushri-Meditation-Retreat.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230924T153000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230924T170000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20230822T170027Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T075907Z UID:20107-1695569400-1695574800@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Spiritual Awakening\, Healing & Ecological Restoration: A Buddhist Mystic Perspective DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/spiritual-awakening-healing-ecological-restoration/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Spiritual-Awakening-Square.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230916T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230917T150000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20230702T231813Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T080025Z UID:19672-1694851200-1694962800@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Integrating Mindfulness: Weekend Retreat (In-Person & Online) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/weekend-retreat/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Integrating Mindfulness,Online Courses,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/2023-Programming-Horizontal-Instagram-Post-Square-5.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230811T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230820T150000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20230205T223441Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T085458Z UID:18756-1691766000-1692543600@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Breathing 2.0 Meditation Retreat DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/breathing-meditation-retreat/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Breathing-Meditation-Retreat.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230721T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230723T170000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20230328T193439Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260310T102858Z UID:18673-1689958800-1690131600@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:As the Spirit Moves (In-Person and Online) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/as-the-spirit-moves/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/As-the-Spirit-Moves-online.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230616T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230618T160000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20230205T213536Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260716T091500Z UID:18672-1686942000-1687104000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Dharma in the Stars: AstroDharma Basics (In-Person or Online) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/astrology-dharma-retreat/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Group Retreats,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Astrology-Dharma-Retreat.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230114T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240204T170000 DTSTAMP:20260823T204209 CREATED:20231211T221125Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T101314Z UID:18750-1673683200-1707066000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Multiple Realities: Bardos & Beyond (Online Course) DESCRIPTION:Vipassana Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n “The meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing is not only suitable for all beings\, it is also the direct way to enlightenment.” Namgyal Rinpoche \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Vipassanā is ideal for those new to meditation because it introduces you to the foundations needed to build a strong meditation practice and is a doorway to profound insight and realization.  \nIf you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. \nLed by Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, this retreat gives an opportunity for more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist suttas\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. \nWe’ll practice a balanced meditative approach using the foundations of mindfulness from the Annapanasati Sutta. \nwith Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | March 19-28\, 2027 \nRegistration Deadlines: \nIn-Person Retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027 \nOnline retreat registration deadline: March 12th\, 2027  \nEarly Bird Deadline: \nIn-person retreat Early Bird deadline: February 21st\, 2027 \nOnline retreat Early Bird deadline: February 28th\, 2027 \nWe recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognize that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option to people living outside of Western Canada.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Vipassanā\n(Insight) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Ten Days \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Skill Level \n \n \n \n All \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n format \n \n \n \n In-Person & Online \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n A Life Changing Experience \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n At this retreat\, the practice itself is awakening\, life-changing and healing. And most importantly\, you will reap great benefit from the rare in-person guidance of an accomplished meditation teacher and wisdom holder\, Catherine Pawasarat Sensei. Sensei’s teaching is radical\, down to earth\, and one-of-a-kind. If you have a background in Vipassanā retreats and are interested in doing something that is similar but a next step\, with a live teacher\, then this retreat may be for you. You will receive more detailed instructions based on the Buddhist satipatthana sutta\, and opportunities for asking questions and receiving feedback on your practice. This is priceless. An online option is also available for those not in Western Canada\, to make participation possible from anywhere in the world. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "I feel like a whole new world of understanding has opened up for me to explore. The teachings were interesting\, vibrant\, and so very relevant to our lives. Qapel and Catherine Sensei have done a wonderful job at distilling these vast teachings without oversimplying concepts. The teachings were visual\, informative\, and interactive. It was a great and lots of fun!" \n Jenai L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ten Day Vipassanā Meditation Retreat \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n While we believe any undertaking can be a vehicle for awakening\, there’s no substitute for the power of one’s own profound experience of truth\, gained through meditation. This is why meditation is one of the four foundational practices of our teaching. Another of our foundation practices is learning. A guiding text for this retreat is the Ānāpānasati Sutta\, or Mindfulness of Breathing Discourse.  In it\, the Buddha describes 16 steps of practice divided into four areas of mindfulness. This simple yet powerful framework will extend your meditation experience to everything from subatomic particles to the vastness of space\, and all that’s between. It includes practice in all four postures—sitting\, walking\, standing\, and lying down. Experience will transform. And\, finally\, we will offer support for bridging the gap between retreat and daily life when you get home. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Schedule \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n For those traveling short distances\, please arrive by 3pm on the start day. For those coming from international or longer distance travel\, please plan to arrive 1-2 days early to allow time to rest and acclimatize before the start of retreat.  Sample brief daily schedule: 9am Class with Teacher 11am Group Meditation led by a Senior Student 12:30pm Lunch 3pm Group Meditation with Teacher 6pm Dinner 7:30 pm Meditation led by a Senior Student Departure: Departures will begin from 2pm MT\, after lunch on the final day of the retreat\, however we also recommend adding some extra nights to your stay for a more easeful transition from retreat to daily life. *Daily schedule is subject to minor changes closer to the course date \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register (Online)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meet the Teacher \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Catherine Pawasarat Sensei began her spiritual practices in earnest in her early 20s\, when she struggled to make sense of and overcome personal suffering and international environmental and social justice challenges. She became a student of metaphysics\, Western spiritual traditions\, and the ayahuasca sacraments in the 1990s. For 26 years Catherine Sensei trained daily with Qapel Doug Duncan in an intensive spiritual apprenticeship that is rare in the modern West. She received lay ordination from Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche in 2003. With Qapel she co-founded Clear Sky Retreat Center and Planet Dharma and is a lineage holder for these teachings. She supports the spiritual underpinnings of social entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurship for spiritual practitioners. She worked as an advocacy photojournalist and studied traditional Japanese arts (including koto\, shamisen\, kyogen) in Kyoto for 20 years\, culminating in her landmark work GionFestival.org. Since the early 2000s Sensei has provided dharma training and taught the path of awakening to hundreds of students\, together with Qapel and on her own. In addition to Buddhist philosophy and its applications to daily life\, Sensei also draws on generative living (a.k.a. sustainability) and the arts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Clear Sky \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Located in the BC rocky mountains\, we offer over 300-acres to deepen your practice and reconnect with nature.  Founded by Qapel Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat Sensei\, we are home to students from around the globe who are dedicated to co-creating a supportive and innovative space for awakening in our modern world. In adherence with our quadruple bottom line\, we source our food as local and organic as possible. EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n "Clear Sky is my favourite place to retreat. I am so grateful to find such an amazing place to study various meditation practices\, walk in stunning nature and eat fresh food from the farm. I always enjoy going there for more." \n Maya L. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n FAQs \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Costs\n \n\n The teaching itself is offered in the traditional Buddhist way on the basis of Dāna\,  Please see the section About Dāna below.  The costs below cover the accommodation\, food and program/admin fees for Clear Sky to operate the retreat.  In person cost including meals and accommodation. Shared Room – CAD $1\,557.00Private Cabin – CAD $2\,007.00Orion Private Cabin – CAD $2\,142.00Tenting – CAD $1\,017.00Online CAD $450.00 – Online Course FeeEarly bird discount available (see below).  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Dāna\n \n\n Dana: Registration fees cover food\, accommodation and the technology needed to offer the retreat online. The Teachings are freely given on the basis of dāna. You may have come across this elsewhere in the form of “pay from the heart”. Dāna is a Sanskrit term meaning “generosity”. With dāna\, we give as a mutual exchange of generosity. It’s our joy to offer this course\, and we trust you’ll match our time\, energy\, and passion by giving an amount of money that feels good and healthy to both you and us. The dharma has been built on generosity. No-one is excluded for lack of funds but it is also extremely beneficial to give as much as you are able Typically people give in a range of $120-$500 USD for a course.  As we’re committed to ensuring everyone has access to the Dharma\, please feel comfortable to give less if you are not financially secure.  Another form of giving dāna is to offer service\, and if you are interested in providing support in a non-financial way\, we invite you to contact us.  Conversely\, if you are financially secure\, we invite you to generate merit by providing more financial support to the Triple Gem. Contributions like these make the difference in supporting our teachers\, teachings\, and center. Learn more about the practice of dāna here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scholarship Application\n \n\n We aim to make our retreats as accessible as possible.  As a centre run entirely by Karma Yoga (selfless service)\, retreat fees only cover food\, accommodation and the equipment required to offer them online. The teachings themselves are offered on the basis of Dāna (pay-from-the-heart).  For some\, this is still a barrier of entry. If you are seeking financial assistance to attend a retreat\, please complete a Scholarship Application form. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Detailed Daily Schedule (Long retreats)\n \n\n Specific times may change – this is a rough guide (MST) 6:30 – 7:30 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:15 AM: Breakfast: Prepare\, eat\, clean up8:15 – 8:45 AM: Walk &/or Personal Practice9:00 – 10:00 AM: Class with Teachers10:00 – 10:30 AM: Walk10:30 – 11:30 AM: Group Practice led by Sangha11:30 – 12:30 PM: Personal Practice12:30 – 1:30 PM: Lunch: Prepare\, eat\, clean up1:30 – 3:00 PM: Personal Practice3:00 – 4:00 PM: Group Practice led by Sangha4:00 – 5:30 PM: Personal Practice5:30 – 7:00 PM: Dinner: prepare\, eat\, clean up7:00 – 7:30 PM: Walk &/or Personal Practice7:30 – 8:30 PM: Group Practice and Q & A with Teachers8:30 – Beyond: Personal Practice & bed \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Food\, Weather\, Accommodation and How to Get Here\n \n\n Click here for details on how to get here\, what to bring and what to expect.  Note: In the unlikely scenario that this retreat is cancelled\, we recommend purchasing refundable travel fares.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Cannabis\, Psychedelics and Microdosing\n \n\n We recognize and respect plant medicine as an important part of some people’s spiritual paths.  Please note\, the meditation practice on this retreat is very powerful. Consuming mind-altering substances will detract from your experience and could cause negative side-effects.  We ask that you refrain from microdosing or consuming mind-altering substances during this retreat and in the days immediately following it.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Early Bird & Registration Deadlines\n \n\n IN-PERSON: Please register as early as possible so we can plan for the retreat. Save 10% on fees until February 21\, 2027. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is April 9th\, 2027. ONLINE: We encourage early registration. Save $100 on the online fees until February 28th\, 2027. April 16th is the final online registration deadline. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for In-Person\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Register for Online URL:https://www.clearskycenter.org/event/bardos-online-course/ CATEGORIES:Featured Courses,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/2024-PD-courses-Square-IG-Post.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR