The Path of Practice
Cutting-Through Delusion & The Way of Intrinsic-Awareness
Udyana Mandala is a dedicated circle for the study and practice of vajrayana Buddhism, specifically the Great Perfection (Dzogchen Atiyoga) as transmitted through the lineages of Garab Dorje, Padmasambhava, Longchen Rabjam up to present day. (read to the end for complete information about our group)
Additional Information about this group:
The Foundation: Purpose & Guidance
While our gathering is informal in its outer shell, our path is strictly grounded in the guidance of a qualified teacher. This teacher provides the essential transmissions, orientation, and instructions required for this tradition. We are not a casual study group or a social club; we are a community of practitioners committed to a time-honored lineage. This guidance ensures that while our setting is simple, the integrity of the Buddha Dharma in general and the Atiyoga teachings remains authentic and undiluted.
Community Spirit: Shared Stewardship
Our community is a "Mandala"—a temporary, interdependent manifestation arising from our shared aspiration. While we follow the guidance of a qualified teacher, the day-to-day health of our group depends on every member. We don't view our gatherings as a "service" being offered to "attendees"; instead, we are a circle of practitioners walking the path together. This shared stewardship is rooted in the Mahāyāna ethical foundation of bodhicitta—a commitment to support one another's growth and maintain the harmony of our practice space.
Nature of the Group and Participation
Udyana Mandala functions as a private gathering of friends rather than a public institution. We do not host "drop-in" events or public advertising.
- How to Join: We are open to anyone with a sincere heart for these specific teachings. If you feel drawn to the practice, reach out to us. We typically have a brief, friendly chat to ensure our current focus aligns with your path. If there is compatibility, you may be invited to join our sessions.
Operational Style
Meetings take place in private homes, modest retreat spaces, or via video calls. All instruction is given in the vernacular language of the participants, with chants and sadhanas adapted to a Western context (simplified structures, no Tibetan language). These adaptations affect only the outer form; the essential teachings and intended realization remain unchanged and are performed safely in domestic or online settings.
Financial Policy
- No Fees: No dues or mandatory payments are required to join or participate.
- Voluntary Gifts: Any contributions offered are purely voluntary gifts; we never request donations. These are never a condition of entry.
- Shared Costs: On occasions where a group activity occurs in a personal setting, we may share actual expenses (food, utilities, supplies). These contributions are always optional.
Scope of Activity
Our sole focus is the spiritual study and practice of Buddha-Dharma. We do not provide therapy, counseling, medical, legal, or financial advice. Participants should seek qualified professionals for such needs. The group is apolitical and does not engage in activism or campaigning.
Responsibility & Safety
As an informal circle, we rely on a foundation of mutual respect and personal maturity. While we care deeply about the well-being of every practitioner, we are not a formal institution. In the spirit of the "sovereign practitioner," each participant remains the primary guardian of their own health, safety, and belongings. All the people involved, whether guide, facilitators, hosts and other members are fellow travelers and practitioners—not service providers—and we join together in a spirit of trust, with each of us assuming the responsibility and reward of our shared journey.
Summary
- Lineage-Based: Guided by a qualified teacher within the traditional Atiyoga lineage.
- Private: Invitation-only, informal gatherings focused on deep practice.
- Shared Stewardship: Rooted in Mahāyāna ethics and mutual responsibility.
- No Fees: Supported by voluntary gifts and shared cost-offsetting only.
- Personal Responsibility: Each practitioner is the guardian of their own well-being.