About this Retreat
There are times when a path reveals itself quietly—one small step, one gentle opening, and then another. For Magda Costa, her journey into the Dharma began in Brazil in 1990, when she encountered Buddhist teachings woven into Catholic instruction by an American priest. Something resonated immediately, leading her into daily study and practice. A simple newspaper ad for a meditation class drew her to one of Nyingma Institute centers in South America, where the teachings of Tarthang Tulku became a steady presence in her life. Over time, that path unfolded naturally, eventually bringing her to the United States and to her work with Dharma Publishing.
For Magda, the teachings are not simply ideas to understand but invitations to live more fully. Books such as Time, Space, and Knowledge and Skillful Means continue to guide her, offering ways to bring awareness into everyday moments and relationships. Meditation, she says, is the foundation of everything—a space where body and mind come into harmony and clarity arises on its own. Over time, it has become less something she practices and more a way of being, opening her to a deeper connection with life, nature, and a more direct experience of reality.
That same sense of presence carries into the simple joys she treasures—walking along the beach, sharing meals with friends, celebrating meaningful occasions. Her wish for the world is both humble and profound: that all beings may live in peace and harmony, free from fear and hatred, and that we rediscover our natural kindness and connection with one another. Magda’s story reminds us that the path often unfolds quietly, guided by small moments of trust that, over time, reveal something much larger.
Details of this retreat
Inner peace are closer than you think... Join Resident Faculty Magda Costa in this exploration of our inner resources!
What if peace, clarity, and happiness are not something we have to create, but qualities that are already present within us, waiting to be uncovered?
According to the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the mind's true nature is naturally open, clear, and aware. Yet the pressures of daily life, constant thinking, and emotional reactions often prevent us from experiencing this innate freedom.
In this workshop, we will explore meditation as a gentle path of discovery. By relaxing the body, calming the breath, and opening the mind, we learn to release tension, soften habitual patterns, and awaken a deeper sense of presence and well-being.
Drawing on the teachings of Tarthang Rinpoche and the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, the practices offered are simple, practical, and accessible to everyone. Through guided meditation and mindful exploration, you will discover how to:
Relax deeply and release physical and mental tension.
Develop greater clarity, stability, and emotional balance.
Transform stress, anxiety, anger, and frustration into opportunities for awareness.
Cultivate compassion, inner confidence, and lasting well-being.
Bring the benefits of meditation into your everyday life.
No previous experience is necessary—only an open mind and a willingness to explore.
Join us and discover that the harmony, peace, and happiness you seek are not somewhere outside you—they are qualities that can naturally unfold as you learn to rest in the open awareness of your own mind.
SCHEDULE (Subject to change)
Friday
3:00 pm-4 pm — Check-in
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm — Tea with the teacher
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm — Dinner
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm — Opening Circle & Introduction of Tibetan Meditation
Saturday
8:00 am-9 am — Breakfast
9:00 am-10:30 am — Balance Body and Mind through Breathing and Meditation
11:00 am-12:15 pm — Meditation – Relaxing the Mind
12:15 pm-1 pm — Lunch
1:00 pm-4:30 pm — Quiet Time- Optional massage and wellness treatments by appointment
4:30 pm-5:30 pm — Meditation - Discovering Silence
5:30 pm-6:30 pm — Dinner
6:30 pm – 8 pm — Meditation – Relaxing into open Awareness
Sunday
8 am - 8:45 am — Meditation Beyond the Cushion
9:00 am – 10 am — Closing Circle
10:00 am - 11:00 am — Brunch
12:00 pm — Checkout
For directions to Ratna Ling - Ratna Ling Retreat Center 35755 Hauser Bridge Rd Cazadero, CA 95421
Accommodations are beautiful lux cabins
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
Transportation to/from Ratna Ling is NOT included - carpooling encouraged
All bookings are NON-REFUNDABLE. Should you wish to cancel your stay with us, Ratna Ling Retreat Center requires 30 days' notice for a full credit to be TRANSFERRED to a future retreat within 1 year of original booking.
Each cottage includes TWO private rooms with queen beds, large dining & living area, gas fireplace, spacious deck, jetted bathtub, linens/towels/hand soap, kitchenette with tea & coffee, complimentary wireless internet.
Vegetarian meals are served during our weekend together.
What people are saying about our retreats:
“The accommodations were great along with the beautiful surroundings - everything was so peaceful and nurturing”
“It was exactly what I needed – to disconnect, get in tune with my soul and recharge my spirit.”
"The food was amazing and nourishing! Fresh bread and full salad bars! And of course, the lodging and the people were so welcoming."
“Space for reflection while also giving me anchor points through teachings.
“Space and time for meditation and movement classes were truly wonderful.”
“Being able to move at my own pace is a luxury. And of course the food was delicious."
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