Compassion in community: From self compassion to universal connectedness

Rigpa Retreat with Ian Ives

Compassion in Community: The practice of extending compassion from self to others

As we move into the autumn months, this weekend will focus on the question of how we can truly embody compassion—within ourselves, for one another, and as a community.

Led by Ian Ives, Senior Rigpa Teacher, we will explore through the wisdom of the Buddhist teachings and complementary practice sessions how compassion which starts with ourselves, becomes a source of genuine openness and connection. We will consider what it means to open our hearts—even in the face of difficulties—and how we can keep the vast, unlimited intention of bodhichitta (the heart of enlightened mind) alive in our daily lives.

We will also look at how we can truly bring compassion into the heart of our connectedness with one another and into the activity of our community.

Supported by a group of experienced practitioners and teachers from Rigpa UK, this retreat is also a gathering of the sangha—a time to draw strength together, nurture connection, and move into the autumn months as a compassionate community.

This weekend offers space for contemplation, personal reflection and shared insight and is open to everyone, whether absolute beginners or those with more experience of buddhist study and practice.

We encourage everyone to attend the weekend in person if they can. However, an online option is also available for those who are unable to travel.

What can you expect?

Space for contemplation, personal reflection and shared insight.

Why should you attend?

The weekend offers an opportunity to develop a kinder and more compassionate relationship with yourself and, through this, deepen your connection with others.

What can you take away?

Greater confidence in your ability to keep your heart open, even when life becomes challenging.This is a perfect event to bring friends from your community, and your friends who might be curious about meditation and Buddhism.

Everyone is welcome, whether completely new to Buddhism or more experienced in Buddhist study and practice.

About Ian Ives

Ian has made the study, practice and exploration of Buddhism his life’s work since his late teens. He became a Rigpa teacher in 2003 and has received extensive practice guidance and teachings from Sogyal Rinpoche and many other teachers on all aspects of the Buddhist path. Under the guidance of Khenchen Namdrol, he spent several years studying at Rigpa’s College of Buddhist Studies in Nepal. Since 2010, Ian has been helping to lead retreats and courses at Rigpa internationally. He currently lives in France with his wife and two daughters and is involved in the ongoing development of Rigpa’s study and practice curriculum.

How to participate

This event will be held in person and online, at our London Centre.

ZOOM Details for online attendees will be in the eventbrite reminder emails 2 days and 2 hours before the event.

Cost l

Standard: £200

Concession: £150

Supporter: £250 (for those who’d like to help subsidise others)

Under 25’s: Free

If you can’t afford any donation – email us

Your donation will cover the costs of running the event and enable someone else to attend. You can cancel and receive an automatic refund through Eventbrite up to 24 hours before the event.

Book a Ticket