Introductory
Introductory
To Saturday 14 February 2026

Suitable for anyone looking to cultivate a more resilient and open heart (beginners and practioners alike).
Shantideva's Bodhicaryavatara, the Way of the Bodhisattva, is an extraordinary classic text of the Mahayana combining devotional, practical and philosophical elements to skilfully elucidate "the six perfections," the bodhisattva's way of life.
Of this text, His Holiness the Dalai Lama himself has said:
If I have any understanding of compassion and the bodhisattva path, it all comes from studying this text.
Teacher
Learn about the knowledge and experience of the teacher, Venerable Lozang Drolma, on our page – visiting teachers & course leaders.
Venerable Drolma will be focusing on verses from the renowned sixth chapter, Patience, and the verses on opening the heart through cherishing others in the eight chapter, Meditation.
She says:
His Holiness the Dalai Lama has mentioned many times the value of these two chapters from Shantideva's text and them being suitable for everyone whether they are Buddhist or not, and he has encouraged that they be taught as an academic subject meaning they are suitable and very relevant for all humans.
Therefore I have wanted for a long time to teach these together, to contribute towards fulfilling His Holiness's wish."
The course will involve:
- teachings
- discussion, and
- meditations.
Schedule
| Sat 7 Feb | |
| 1:15 pm-> | Check-in |
| 5:00 pm | Introduction to the course by Spiritual Programme Coordinator (SPC) |
| 6:00 pm | Supper |
| Sun 8 | Fri 13 Feb |
| 7:30 am | Breakfast |
| 9:00–10:00 am | Teachings |
| 10:00 am | Tea break |
| 10:30–11:45 am | Teachings |
| 12:00 pm | Lunch |
| 2:00–3:00 pm | Teachings |
| 3:00 pm | Tea break |
| 3:30–5:00 pm | Teachings |
| 6:00 pm | Supper |
| Sat 14 Feb | |
| 7:30 am | Breakfast |
| 8:30 am | Room check-out (if leaving same day) |
| 10:30 am | Tour of Root Institute and introduction to the social service projects – Maitreya school, Shakyamuni Buddha Clinic, and the Stupa Garden of Compassion. |
| 12:00 pm | Big Lunch |
Note: This schedule is subject to change.
Course / retreat discipline
We welcome your application to participate in our Spiritual Programme.
We now offer all Dharma events without charge, however we do require bookings for planning purposes.
To make the most of the opportunity, we suggest the following:
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Settle all outside communication before you begin your course or retreat. Telling friends and family that you will be out of contact for the duration will significantly help to reduce distractions. Likewise, settling your travel arrangements, etc. before you come to Root Institute is highly advisable.
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To maintain a healthy, calm, clear mind, observing silence will bring conducive mental space.
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Practicing Dharma is a source of happiness; enjoy each step along the way!
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Thank you for your interest in Root Institute's Spiritual Programme. We'll do our best to support you!
