Raising Windhorse: Learning to Ride the Energy of Life
with Joseph Litven
July 10 - 14, 2024
“The warriors who experience windhorse feel the joy and sorrow of love in everything they do.”
—Chögyam Trungpa, Shambhala: Sacred Path of the Warrior
The challenges of our time, both societal and personal, can leave us feeling alienated, worn out, and weighed down. This program offers practices and perspectives that allow us to lift our spirit and renew our connection to basic healthiness. We will lay the foundation for this reconnection with mindfulness awareness meditation.
Traditionally, in Tibet, windhorse prayer flags capture and harness the energy of the highest places, such as mountain peaks, and, by extension, immense challenges of all kinds. As a practice, windhorse (or lungta in Tibetan) is right for our era: it can further evoke natural energy, cheerfulness and wellbeing. With practicing together, as well as sharing experiences, reflection and humour, we can uncover the vitality of open heartedness which is our birthright.
What to Expect
This four-day retreat is focused on finding inner wellbeing through meditation and awareness practices. In addition to sitting meditation, participants will be guided through practice of raising windhorse, and engage in group and one-on-one conversations, talks, some surprises as well!
Who Should Attend
This retreat is designed for practitioners of all backgrounds and levels. Everyone is welcome to attend, particularly those wanting to deepen their understanding of the Shambhala teachings and the practice of meditation related to health and wellness issues. We deserve to connect to the spice of life quality windhorse can bring! Meditation instruction will be provided for those who are new.
Recommended Reading
Shambhala: The Sacred Path of the Warrior
Overview of Schedule
July 10 (Arrival Day)
- Check-in is open from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Please try to arrive before 5 p.m. to settle in before dinner if you are able to.
- Dinner is at 6:30.
- There will be an orientation session around 7:30 after dinner.
July 11 – July 13
- 9:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Sessions include meditation with instruction, walking meditation, windhorse instruction and practice, talks, group discussion. Possible evening presentations will be optional.
- Includes breaks for tea, meals and rest time.
July 14 (Departure Day)
Program concludes after 12:30 lunch.
Retreat Costs
All prices are in $CAD. Please consider paying by e-transfer, cheque, or cash. Saving transaction fees helps us keep the Centre going.
Tuition & Meals: CA$465
Lodging: Extra: varies by type. Visit the Registration Form or this page for a list of options and pricing.
Generosity Policy: We have a donor-supported pay what you can policy and scholarships available. If you need financial assistance in order to attend, please complete this form and our Finance Director will contact you. If you have questions or would like to set up a payment plan, contact our Finance Department at finance@dorjedenmaling.com.
Covid Considerations
Please read the full details of our Covid policy here.
Registration and Cancellation Policies
Please take note that our registration and cancellation policies have been updated. You can read our registration and cancellation policies here.
Useful Links
What to Bring & Expect at DDL
How to Get Here
About the Leader

Joseph Litven
Joe Litven has been teaching Buddhist and Shambhala programs for over 40 years. He has taught Shambhala Training in Europe and in North and South America. For many years he was Dean of Shambhala Training in Halifax, whose responsibility was to mentor and train prospective teachers. Recently he has been a teacher and head of […]
Learn more about Joseph LitvenCategories : Featured Events, On-Land Programs & Events, Public Program