We have received numerous teachings and empowerments during the past ten years. However, our Precious Teacher Garchen Rinpoche recommended that we engage in the following group practices:
Guru Yoga
Guru Yoga grants blessings. The Teacher is a model, an example. When we perceive a Teacher as an ordinary person our mind remains in an ordinary state, however, when we see a Teacher as a Buddha, we exalt the state of our own mind. When we perceive our teacher as a Buddha, we have a chance to unite our mind with the Buddha’s mind. When we perceive our teacher as a Buddha, we receive the blessings that give us the strength to attain this state on our own.
White Tara
Like any Buddhist practice, the practice of White Tara is done with the aim to attain enlightenment, Buddhahood. White Tara is the embodiment of all types of Buddha activities. Thus, this practice helps to overcome obstacles in one’s life, attain longevity and brings good luck.
White Tara is the main practice of His Eminence Garchen Rinpoche.
Achi Chokyi Drolma
Achi Chokyi Drolma is the great-grandmother of Jikten Sumgon, the founder of the Drikung Kagyu Lineage. She is an emanation of Vajrayogini and a protector of the Lineage. Achi made a pledge to protect Dharma teachings and to help all devoted students to overcome different obstacles on their path.
Shamatha Meditation
In Sanskrit the word shamatha means calm abiding. It is one of the meditation methods used to achieve mental calm and clear state of mind. Shamatha is the most important and fundamental practice in Buddhism and serves as a foundation for other methods and practices.
37 Bodhisattva Practices
The 37 Bodhisattva Practices is an essence of all the teachings of the Buddha. His Eminence Garchen Rinpoche said: “I highly recommend to study and contemplate The 37 Bodhisattva Practices to all my students. This text is my representative. This is my heart advice to my students that I give from the depth of my heart. If you act in accordance with the 37 Bodhisattva Practices teaching and never deviate from it you will bring an immeasurable benefit to yourself and to all sentient being.”