Intro to Tibetan Buddhism

In this six-week series, you will learn about the fundamentals of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy theory and practice, including prayers, meditations, readings, texts, and various paths. You’ll learn about yourself and your mind, if you’d like to, which is mostly-definitely the point.

We keep it fun and accessible, and sometimes we go deep and you can ask any questions you’d like. I invite guest teachers to drop in too.

I’m so glad you’re considering joining in!

Here is the list of course topics:

I discovered Buddhism when I was an undergraduate student at UC Santa Barbara. I had the pleasure of having B. Alan Wallace, one of the greatest Western contemplatives and a former monk as my professor for four years. Before that time, I thought of Buddhism as cold and pessimistic– but as I learned more and learned from Dr. Wallace, the tradition became increasingly relevant and important in my life.

I continued my formal studies in Buddhism at Maitripa College in Portland, Or from 2012-2016. While there, I ended up working on staff for the small College and directly for the President Yangsi Rinpoche, a ‘Geshe Lharampa’ and a ‘tulku’, which is to say a pretty heavy-weight spiritual & scholastic dude. We were very close, navigating being in a teacher-student relationship as well as daily work colleagues. I studied in the Master of Arts program in Buddhist Studies, and was immersed in a supportive practice community steeped in Tibetan Buddhist ritual and cultural activities.

Since then, I’ve taught for about 2 years. Sharing the Buddhist teachings is a great delight for me, as they have deeply informed and benefited my life and mind. The tradition is so rich and varied, and presenting the tradition is the best way for me to learn as well. I continue to practice on a daily basis, even if it’s just a bow at my altar or five minutes on the cushion. I hope to inspire others to find ways to integrate Buddhist teachings and practices into their own lives.