~ A full-day Dharma Deep Dive ~
Event details
9:00 – 5:00 pm Sunday 8 March 2026
Online via Zoom
Description
Maitreya’s Elephant Path provides a stunning depiction of the progression of the nine stages of calm abiding. This map of meditation is a clear outline of how the mind moves from scattered distraction and sleepiness to eventually reaching effortlessly stable attention, unification of mind, and equanimity. The teachings on the Stages of Śamatha (calm abiding) clarify the practice so that anyone can develop focus, calm, clarity, and collectedness. This opens up a powerful sense of alignment between intentions and actions, making all of the meditative path possible.
In this full-day workshop, you will be given direct guided instruction on how to progress through the first five stages of the elephant path up to the point of complete staying using the whole body as the meditation object. There will be practices for each stage with techniques for working with the obstacles of sleepiness, mind wandering, distracting thoughts, restlessness, and subtle dullness. You’ll learn what to do when each hindrance arises, how to find joy and pleasantness in practice, and when it is helpful to bring more effort versus easing up.
With clear, precise language and detailed instructions, you can unlock the ability to steady the mind and access deeply resourced states that are enjoyable and incredibly nourishing. You’ll leave with insight into how to train the mind, with confidence in your ability to self-guide your practice towards more calm and clarity.
About this format
This workshop curriculum will be taught through a method of embodied experience delivered through guided meditations that point out key insights, supported by talks, Q&A, and group discussion.
You are asked to participate by engaging in the practice during the session so that you get first-hand experience. You are also asked to bring your questions and practice experiences to the whole group and to your practice pod, as well as to listen generously as part of the community.
The event is structured as a full day to provide the opportunity for deep focus on the exploration of The Elephant Path, while you temporarily put aside other concerns.
Please attend for the whole day. It can be highly beneficial to be in silence for the day, and especially to minimise technology usage. However, you are not required to be in full silence. We encourage you to do what you can to create a supportive environment for your practice.
This is an online event. You will need a device with Zoom installed. Please ensure you have a consistent internet connection.
After registration you will receive further information and resources.