Why We Need a Group
By Fábio Valgas
No matter how carefully apps like Lojong present contemplative practices without requiring direct contact with an experienced teacher or in-person group, such practices often reveal their limitations when undertaken in isolation. Over time, they tend to keep us stuck in self-centered difficulties and misunderstandings that would rarely be resolved through solitary study, cut off from other perspectives.
While it is possible to maintain a diligent isolated practice and recognize its benefits, the moment difficulties begin to arise, it becomes clear how connection with other practitioners and teachers can become essential to constantly renewing our motivation. This connection makes the path less self-centered and freer from our own biases and preoccupations.
With this in mind, we have compiled a list of groups and initiatives that can foster this openness, expanding our experience as practitioners and allowing us to move forward with greater confidence and freedom from delusion.
In-person groups:
• Karme Thegsum Tcholing (KTT) Brasil
Online groups:
In-person and online courses:
• Teacher Training CEBTT, with Jeanne Pilli and Elisa Hozaka
• Cultivating Emotional Balance, with Daniel Cunha
• Cultivating Emotional Balance, with Rosa Frazão
• Contemplative Science, with Lama Jigme Lhawang
• Mindfulness, with Daniela Sopezki
• Balance and Compassion, with Cristiano Ramalho
• Self-Compassion, with Caroline Bertolino
• Instituto Fluir, with Ana Caner
• Contemplative Research Center (CCR) Italy, with Lama Alan Wallace
• Vipassana Meditation, with S.N. Goenka's group
• Meditation for children and online courses, at Mindful Academy
• Peace and Mind, with Cerys Tramontini
Podcasts:
Other Lojong partners: