Samye Institute Summer Immersion: The Buddhist Arts & Sciences

This immersive six-week program offers a unique opportunity to delve into the timeless wisdom of the Buddhist tradition. Combining intellectual exploration with personal transformation, it integrates teachings on the inner fields of knowledge—Buddhist philosophy and meditative practices—with the outer fields of knowledge, such as logic, medicine, language, artisanry, astrology, and geomancy. These teachings are delivered by accomplished Tibetan masters and academically-trained scholar-practitioners, fostering a holistic learning experience. Apply here for a summer to remember.

What You’ll Learn

Rooted in centuries-old training methods from India and Tibet, this program introduces participants to the foundational Buddhist wisdom that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. Over six weeks, students will:

• Learn Buddhist Philosophy and Practices: Guided by Tulku Migmar, and special guest teachers Phakchok Rinpoche, Ven. Wangchuk Negi, and Prof. John Makransky, explore foundational Buddhist principles and meditative practices.
• Explore Outer Fields of Knowledge: Engage with disciplines like logic, medicine, astrology, geomancy, and artisanry, taught by specialists with academic and practical expertise.
• Enhance Mind-Body-World Connection: Participate in yoga, Qi Gong, mindful movement, and outdoor meditation to deepen your relationship with nature and cultivate mental and physical harmony.

A core practice throughout the program will be daily immersion in a sit spot on the land, guided by Tibetan medical doctor Tawni Tidwell and eco-chaplain in training and translator Oriane Lavole. This practice encourages participants to build a profound connection to the land, deepening their awareness of the interplay between the outer environment and inner mindfulness. Additionally, a Tibetan language component will introduce key terminology relevant to Buddhist studies, and give intermediate students the opportunity to join weekly reading and translation workshops.

Customize Your Immersion

The program is structured into two three-week modules, which both feature inner and outer arts and sciences. Customize your experience by choosing from the weekly offerings:

Module 1: Path of Transformation (June 16–July 5)

Week 1: Sustainable Compassion and Wisdom Training (June 16-20)

Week 2: Logical Reasoning: Knowing Your World, Knowing Your Mind (June 23-27)

Week 3: Medicine & Fine Arts: Inner-Outer Harmony (June 30-July 4)

Module 2: Path of Realization (July 7–July 26)

Week 4: Artisanry & Medicine: Crafting One’s Life (July 7-11)

Week 5: Calculations: Astrology, Geomancy & Finances (July 14-18)

Week 6: Integrating Buddhist Arts & Sciences in Daily Life (July 21-25)

If you would like to attend a single week of this program, simply click the link above to learn more and register.

Classes run Monday through Friday, offering four daily sessions:

• Morning Meditation (7:00–8:00 AM): Traditional Tibetan Buddhist practices such as Treasury of Blessings (Module 1) and Concise Manual for Daily Practice (Module 2).
• Buddhist Philosophy and Practice (10:30 AM–12:00 PM): Teachings on achieving Buddhahood.
• Outer Fields of Knowledge (2:30–4:00 PM): Sessions led by expert instructors.
• Personal Sitting Practice (4:00–5:00 PM): Individual meditation held daily in the same natural spot on campus. This practice fosters a deeper connection to the land, allowing participants to attune to the surrounding plants, wildlife, and the rhythms of the natural environment, enriching their meditative experience and sense of connection.

Where You’ll Stay

During the Samye Institute Summer Immersion, onsite participants will stay in our campground, with each tent set on a sturdy platform and fully furnished, including bedding, to ensure a comfortable stay. Shrine Hall accommodations are available for single-week participants as well. Enjoy communal meals in our Lotus Barn, fostering connections with fellow participants over delicious, local, nourishing food. Staying with us onsite will encourage full engagement with the program’s teachings while being immersed in the tranquility of our 26-acre campus.

For those who prefer not to camp, commuter options are also available, allowing you to fully participate in the program while staying offsite. Whether onsite or commuting, you’ll enjoy the perfect environment to immerse yourself in the teachings and practices of the Summer Immersion program

How You’ll Transform

This six-week journey offers more than just an academic or meditative experience—it provides an opportunity to harmonize the intellectual, spiritual, and physical aspects of life. By engaging deeply with the inner and outer fields of knowledge, participants will develop a holistic understanding of how ancient wisdom can be integrated into modern life.

Daily practices, such as meditation in nature and mindful movement, foster a profound connection to the environment and a sense of balance between inner awareness and outer engagement. Through guidance from accomplished Tibetan masters, expert scholars, and contemplative ecologists, students will cultivate insights that resonate far beyond the program.

Ultimately, this program is designed to inspire meaningful transformation, helping participants to integrate these teachings into their personal lives while building a deeper relationship with themselves, their communities, and the natural world.

Spaces are limited—apply today to this journey of self-discovery and holistic transformation. Experience the natural beauty of Samye’s rural campus, learn from accomplished teachers, and immerse yourself in practices that inspire lasting change.

Visit the Samye Institute Summer Immersion website for more details.