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Introduction to Channels, Bindus and Winds Retreat with Kim Sawyer


  • Dharma Centre of Canada 1267 Galway Road Kinmount Canada (map)

Introduction to Channels, Bindus and Winds Retreat

with Kim Sawyer

October 21 - 23, 2022

The Vajrayana has been characterized as the fast path to enlightenment particularly when compared to the Mahayana or Hinayana paths. The reason for this stems from the extraordinary practices that the Vajrayana holds, which develop elements of subtle body known as channels, bindus and winds.

If we were already purified of obscurations and negative karma, we could easily gain the fruition that these Vajrayana techniques promise. However the seeds of karma that are embedded in us slow down or prevent our full realization of the path.

This retreat will use both meditative and physical techniques to root out the seeds of karma and initiate the development of the subtle elements of mind/body.

This course will include:

  • Classes that provide theoretical background and instruction

  • Yoga and movement sessions

  • Group sitting sessions

As this retreat can only serve to initiate these practices, Kim will follow up with ongoing classes with more extensive instruction and guidance over the subsequent months leading to a longer and more in-depth retreat at the Dharma Centre in April 2023. (This retreat and the follow up classes are a prerequisite for the April retreat).


Kim Sawyer has been studying Buddha Dharma and practising meditation and yoga for over 47 years. Her primary teacher was Venerable Namgyal Rinpoche, but she also received teaching from Karma Thinley Rinpoche, H.H. Karmapa XVI, H.E. Ayang Rinpoche and many other visiting teachers. Kim organized and attended the “Kinmount Seminary and Academy”, a three year study and retreat program at the Dharma Centre.

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Important Details

When: October 21 - 23, 2022

Rates: Fees: $220 members /$250 non-members

Rates include: Single accommodation and all meals. They do not include instructor fees. Kim is sharing her experience within the traditional Buddhist understanding of Dana. To understand more about Dana, please read the following:

What is Dana? Teachers give the teachings of awakening (Dharma) freely so that anyone, no matter their financial means can attend classes. Each time one receives teachings, it is an opportunity to consciously practice generosity. Giving money and other means of support expresses gratitude and support to the teacher and helps to ensure that these teachings continue. Each person receiving Dharma teachings determines the kind and amount of Dāna according to one’s heart and one’s financial means. When deciding how much to offer, one should think about what these teachings mean to you and try to give accordingly. It is recommended that students make an offering of dāna at the beginning of a class or retreat to establish the intention to make the most of this opportunity for one’s own progression and for the benefit of all others.

Deposit: A 50% deposit is required to hold your space upon registration.

Cancellation policy: Full refund up to 7 days before the commencement of the course. For cancellations less than 7 days prior to course begin, a $100 administrative fee will be charged.