Work-Study Retreat Program: Ratna Ling offers a year long integrated program of work, study and practice based on the Skillful Means teachings of Tarthang Tulku.

You do not need to have any particular background in Buddhism or other spiritual traditions to participate.

The weekly schedule includes classes 4 nights a week from 6 - 7 pm with an optional 5th class in Tibetan language. There are optional early morning sessions in meditation and Tibetan yoga 6 mornings per week, sacred arts and crafts as well as other community projects in the evenings and on Sundays.

The work-study retreat program engages both traditional and contemporary practices and study centering around Skillful Means , Tibetan Yoga ( Kum Nye) and Buddhist studies.

See the daily and weekly schedule with classes here.

Suggested Reading To become more familiar with our ways of working and practicing, we suggest two books authored by Tarthang Tulku, "Gesture of Balance" and "Skillful Means". Both are available at Dharma Publishing and at some public libraries.

Skillful Means In 1978, the community's founder Tarthang Tulku wrote the book Skillful Means , a collection of teachings and practices to guide students and volunteers toward a work experience that is meaningful and satisfying. Today volunteers continue to study and practice Skillful Means as a practical guide for turning our work into "work practice"; using work as an opportunity to train our minds and gain deeper insights.  

Sacred Art Projects Volunteers can develop new skills participating in traditional art forms. Sacred sacred art projects range from woodworking to clay and modeling works, light construction, sewing or hand crafts.

Ceremonies We observe four Buddhist lunar ceremonies per month, plus a special dedication ceremony each Saturday. Everyone is welcome to attend ceremonies but it is not required.  

Community Living  We are looking for people who are interested in the process of community life and wish to engage that dynamic by involvement in how to make things better. All residents are expected to be on time for work, classes and other activities and to complete community chores. Ratna Ling upholds basic Buddhist principles such as appropriate behavior toward others, cleanliness, not harming animals or insects, observing essential speech while working, and removing outdoor shoes for classes and practice.

We are seeking volunteers who wish to take advantage of the unique environment with full participation, utilizing free time for practices, reading, study, or participating in sacred art projects.