BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Clear Sky Meditation Centre - ECPv6.17.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Clear Sky Meditation Centre 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 END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20220313T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20221106T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20230312T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20231105T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20240310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20241103T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20270314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20271107T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Denver 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 END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20230114T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240204T170000 DTSTAMP:20251209T101314Z CREATED:20231211T221125Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T101314Z UID:18750-1673683200-1707066000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Multiple Realities: Bardos & Beyond (Online Course) DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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 BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20230928T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261231T170000 DTSTAMP:20250825T062119Z CREATED:20220205T181428Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T062119Z UID:14666-1695888000-1798736400@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Personal Coaching DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/personal-coaching-online/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Coaching ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Screen-Shot-2020-06-13-at-10.49.12-AM.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20231006T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20231022T170000 DTSTAMP:20260310T103246Z CREATED:20230206T002516Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260310T103246Z UID:18754-1696579200-1697994000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:The Mind’s Cutting Edge: 12 Manjushris Meditation Retreat DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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:20231112T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20231210T110000 DTSTAMP:20251208T071221Z CREATED:20230609T213532Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T071221Z UID:19686-1699781400-1702206000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Warriors of the Heart: The Bodhisattva Path (Online) DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/bodhisattva-path-online-course/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/2023-PD-courses-Square-IG-Post.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20231116T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20231207T200000 DTSTAMP:20251208T070157Z CREATED:20230918T165250Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T070157Z UID:20294-1700161200-1701979200@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Meditation Circle: Community Classes for Inner Well-Being (Online or In-Person) DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/meditation-circle-november-2023/ CATEGORIES:Coaching,Meditation Circle,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/2.png ORGANIZER;CN="Clear Sky Center":MAILTO:contact@clearskycenter.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240208 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240301 DTSTAMP:20251209T091316Z CREATED:20231205T030926Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T091316Z UID:20623-1707350400-1709251199@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Meditation Circle: Body\, Speech & Mind - Liberating Stuck Patterns DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/meditation-circle-feb-2024/ CATEGORIES:Coaching,Meditation Circle,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/2.png ORGANIZER;CN="Clear Sky Center":MAILTO:contact@clearskycenter.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240308T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240317T170000 DTSTAMP:20260307T075825Z 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:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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:20240323T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240427T120000 DTSTAMP:20251205T092021Z CREATED:20230905T161824Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251205T092021Z UID:20192-1711188000-1714219200@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Integrating Mindfulness: Tools for Holistic Living (In-Person or Online) DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/integrating-mindfulness-2024/ CATEGORIES:Integrating Mindfulness,Online Courses,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Integrating-Mindfulness-Feature-Image.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240414T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240505T110000 DTSTAMP:20251206T085908Z CREATED:20240121T231048Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251206T085908Z UID:21095-1713087000-1714906800@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:From Ordinary to Extraordinary: Walking the Eightfold Noble Path (Online) DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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-eightfold-ennobling-path/ CATEGORIES:Online Courses,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/2024-PD-Courses-Facebook-Covers.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240511T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240512T170000 DTSTAMP:20251205T090046Z CREATED:20240107T141734Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251205T090046Z UID:20951-1715418000-1715533200@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Come to Your Senses: A Spring Renewal Retreat DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/come-to-your-senses-a-spring-renewal-retreat-3/ CATEGORIES:Group Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Untitled-design-1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Clear Sky Center":MAILTO:contact@clearskycenter.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240524T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240602T150000 DTSTAMP:20251209T101545Z CREATED:20230907T232718Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T101545Z UID:20221-1716562800-1717340400@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Breathing Meditation Retreat DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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;VALUE=DATE:20240613 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240705 DTSTAMP:20251209T102356Z CREATED:20240122T181943Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T102356Z UID:21205-1718236800-1720137599@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Meditation Circle: Living the Body Electric DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/meditation-circle-body-electric-june-2024/ CATEGORIES:Coaching,Meditation Circle,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/2.png ORGANIZER;CN="Clear Sky Center":MAILTO:contact@clearskycenter.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240712T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240714T170000 DTSTAMP:20251209T101138Z 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:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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;VALUE=DATE:20240801 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240823 DTSTAMP:20251209T104233Z CREATED:20240225T224710Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T104233Z UID:21602-1722470400-1724371199@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Meditation Circle: Summer of the Spotless Mind DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/meditation-circle-summer-spotless-mind-aug-2024/ CATEGORIES:Coaching,Meditation Circle,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/2.png ORGANIZER;CN="Clear Sky Center":MAILTO:contact@clearskycenter.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240907T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240922T170000 DTSTAMP:20251209T101002Z CREATED:20230416T232247Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T101002Z UID:19511-1725696000-1727024400@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:The Movement of the Mandala DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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-movement-of-the-mandala/ CATEGORIES:Group Retreats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Movement-of-the-Mandala-Square.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240921T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20240922T203000 DTSTAMP:20250823T082059Z CREATED:20240822T172234Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250823T082059Z UID:22674-1726911000-1727037000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Clear Sky's 20th Anniversary Celebration! DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/Chicago:20240925T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240925T190000 DTSTAMP:20260218T090631Z CREATED:20231127T202240Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260218T090631Z UID:20576-1727285400-1727290800@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:FREE WEBINAR: Integrating the Money Shadow in your Spiritual Life DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/money-and-spirituality-free-webinar/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Coaching,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2024-Programming-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Clear Sky Center":MAILTO:contact@clearskycenter.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241009T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241030T190000 DTSTAMP:20240908T221511Z CREATED:20230905T162924Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240908T221511Z UID:20198-1728495000-1730314800@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Money & Spirituality: Integrating Spiritual and Material (Online) DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/money-spirituality-online-2024/2024-10-09/ CATEGORIES:Coaching,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2024-Programming.png ORGANIZER;CN="Clear Sky Center":MAILTO:contact@clearskycenter.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20241018T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20241020T150000 DTSTAMP:20260507T134410Z 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:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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:20241110T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20241201T110000 DTSTAMP:20251206T085614Z CREATED:20240805T174051Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251206T085614Z UID:21973-1731231000-1733050800@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Understanding The Power of Sangha & Group Guru DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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:20241208T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20241208T100000 DTSTAMP:20260310T101650Z CREATED:20240908T211533Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260310T101650Z UID:22893-1733648400-1733652000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Body\, Speech & Mind eBook Launch Celebration (Online) DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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;VALUE=DATE:20241222 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250105 DTSTAMP:20241209T173441Z CREATED:20241107T185825Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T173441Z UID:23426-1734825600-1736035199@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Sangha Christmas Retreat DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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:20241224T143000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20241224T160000 DTSTAMP:20260307T075733Z CREATED:20241220T190242Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T075733Z UID:23593-1735050600-1735056000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Qapel: Life and Teachings Christmas Celebration DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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;TZID=America/Edmonton:20250112T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20250202T110000 DTSTAMP:20260716T091643Z CREATED:20240829T175029Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260716T091643Z UID:22571-1736674200-1738494000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Waking Up & Growing Up: Integral Evolution (Online) DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/Chicago:20250125T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250125T113000 DTSTAMP:20251208T064831Z CREATED:20241023T164820Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T064831Z UID:23198-1737799200-1737804600@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:FREE WEBINAR: Integrating the Money Shadow in your Spiritual Life DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/free-webinar-integrating-the-money-shadow-in-your-spiritual-life-2025/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Coaching,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2024-Programming-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Clear Sky Center":MAILTO:contact@clearskycenter.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250308T120000 DTSTAMP:20250801T154706Z CREATED:20241023T160454Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250801T154706Z UID:22588-1739613600-1741435200@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Money & Spirituality: Integrating Spiritual and Material (Online) DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/money-spirituality-integrating-spiritual-and-material-online/2025-02-15/ CATEGORIES:Money & Spirituality,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2024-Programming.png ORGANIZER;CN="Clear Sky Center":MAILTO:contact@clearskycenter.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250313 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250404 DTSTAMP:20251206T092250Z CREATED:20240225T235112Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251206T092250Z UID:21655-1741824000-1743724799@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Meditation Circle: The Dance of Generosity\, Reciprocity and Collaboration DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/meditation-circle-the-dance-of-generosity-reciprocity-and-collaboration/ CATEGORIES:Coaching,Meditation Circle,Online Courses ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/2.png ORGANIZER;CN="Clear Sky Center":MAILTO:contact@clearskycenter.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20250321T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20250323T150000 DTSTAMP:20251209T102031Z CREATED:20241128T230819Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T102031Z UID:23142-1742576400-1742742000@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Dharma in the Stars: Integrating Saturn DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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:20250413T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20250504T110000 DTSTAMP:20251209T095630Z CREATED:20250124T184949Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T095630Z UID:23760-1744536600-1746356400@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Joy! Fuel for Awakening (Online) DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/Denver:20250419T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250517T170000 DTSTAMP:20260310T102712Z CREATED:20250223T004058Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260310T102712Z UID:24046-1745074800-1747501200@www.clearskycenter.org SUMMARY:Integrating Mindfulness Spring 2025: Tools for Holistic Living (In-Person or Online) DESCRIPTION:The Kilesas: Freeing the Heart from Obscuring Emotions \n \n \n \n “The power of one person reducing the influence of the kilesas in their life is far greater than one in eight billion — because the effect is so pervasive.”  – Catherine Sensei \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n We spend a lot of energy learning to manage our emotions — naming them\, regulating them\, communicating them skilfully. That work matters. But Buddhism has always pointed to something underneath it: the kilesas\, the obscuring states of mind that colour how emotion arises in the first place. This retreat continues to build on Sensei’s 2026 teachings on emotional intelligence\, bringing that work to a natural close by looking at the formal Buddhist teachings on emotion. Where this year’s work has helped us recognise and work skilfully with what we feel\, the kilesa teachings show us what’s underneath the feeling. These classic Buddhist teachings offer a direct\, practical remedy for dissolving it at the root. with Catherine Pawasarat Sensei | December 25-29\, 2026 Registration Deadline: for both in-person and online please register December 18\, 2026 Keen Practitioner/Early Bird Rate: available until November 20\, 2026 We recommend in-person retreats as the best way to get the most out of your experience. That said\, we recognise that travel is inhibitive for some people and are offering an online option for those outside the region unable to travel here. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Registration (In-Person)\n \n \n \n \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 focus area \n \n \n \n Buddhist Foundations \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n practice \n \n \n \n Kilesas \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Duration \n \n \n \n Four 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 What Are the Kilesas and Upakkilesas? \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kilesa (Pali; kleśa in Sanskrit) is the traditional term for what are sometimes called the afflictive or destructive emotions — the mental states that cloud the mind and drive unskilful action. Buddhism has long focused on identifying what gets in the way of our well-being\, and working to remove it. The main kilesas are greed\, hatred and delusion — also described as clinging\, aggression and confusion — along with pride and jealousy. Alongside these\, we’ll explore the upakkilesas: subtler defilements that can slip by unnoticed\, or are even celebrated by our culture. Yet even (or especially) unnamed\, they weigh heavily on us\,  quietly disrupting our equanimity and dampening our energy.  The kilesas aren’t personal flaws to feel bad about — they’re universal patterns every human contends with on the path. They shape not just our own lives\, but the society\, systems and world around us. Learning to recognise them clearly\, rather than being run by them\, is central to Buddhist practice. And by working to transform them in ourselves\, we are also bringing healing to the world around us. \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!" (Vipassana retreat) \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 What We'll Explore \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Over four days of teaching\, guided meditation and group inquiry\, we’ll: Learn the main kilesas — greed\, hatred and delusion\, along with pride and jealousy — and the subtler upakkilesas or higher defilements.Explore how this traditional Buddhist map connects with modern emotional intelligence work\, bringing a fresh\, integrated view to classical teachingsDraw on the book “Destructive Emotions: How Can We Overcome Them?” by Daniel Goleman and the Dalai Lama (Mind & Life Institute)\, and the Upakkilesa SuttaPractice recognising these patterns as they arise\, both in meditation and in daily lifeConsider how reducing these defilements in ourselves ripples outward\, offering a living example of non-duality — healing in ourselves as healing in society and on the planetNew to this year’s series? Working with the kilesas is always relevant\, so you’re welcome to join even if you haven’t taken part in the earlier emotional intelligence sessions this year. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 in-person\, please arrive December 25 no later than 5 pm. Formal teaching runs December 26–29\, with classes at 9:30am and 2:30pm each day\, alongside group meditation\, meals and personal practice time. Departure and New Year’s Celebration The last formal retreat class will be 2.30-4 pm Tuesday 29th.  Departures can  begin after this.  However we warmly invite you to stay on after the retreat closes and welcome the new year with our community. We’ll gather on December 31 for a New Year’s Eve celebration. When booking\, you can select an option to remain at Clear Sky through January 1 to rest\, integrate the teachings and start the year in good company. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 range from CAD $384.30 to CAD $834.30 according to type of accommodation and whether you will stay on for New Year. OnlineCAD $225.00 – Online Course FeeKeen practitioner/Early bird discount available until November 20th.  \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 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 Keen Practitioner/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 November 20th. Registration deadline for in-person retreatants is December 18th\, 2026. ONLINE: We encourage early registration – keen practitioner/early bird discount available until November 20th. December 18th 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/integrating-mindfulness-spring-2025-tools-for-holistic-living-in-person-or-online/ CATEGORIES:Integrating Mindfulness,Online Courses,Special Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.clearskycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Integrating-Mindfulness-Feature-Image.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR