Dzogchen Retreat: Revealing the Great Inner Connection at Menla

Journey into the heart of Tibetan Buddhist practice with the Dzogchen Retreat at Menla, a transformative meditation retreat event in Phoenicia, NY. Taking place on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, this immersive experience guides practitioners through the profound teachings of Dzogchen—the "Great Perfection"—a tradition known for its direct approach to understanding the nature of mind and reality. Whether you're seeking deeper spiritual insight, healing through ancient energy practices, or a profound reset from daily life, this meditation retreat brings together world-class teachers to facilitate genuine transformation.

Led by Mingtong Gu, a renowned Chinese Qigong master and founder of the Chi Healing Institute, this retreat uniquely bridges ancient Eastern wisdom with contemporary wellness science. Mingtong's expertise in qigong energy cultivation harmonizes beautifully with Dzogchen's contemplative depth, creating a rare opportunity to explore both subtle energy work and the ultimate nature of consciousness. The retreat's holistic approach—combining sitting meditation, guided instruction, energetic practices, and the serene mountain setting—creates an atmosphere where genuine inner connection becomes possible.

At Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, you'll find yourself surrounded by the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains, an ideal backdrop for turning inward and reconnecting with what matters most.

What to Expect

This meditation retreat unfolds as a carefully structured journey designed to progressively deepen your practice and insight. From your arrival, you'll be welcomed into a contemplative atmosphere where silence, intention-setting, and community create the container for transformation. Daily sessions typically include morning meditation, teachings on Dzogchen philosophy and techniques, guided qigong practices led by Mingtong Gu to balance energy channels, and evening reflection—all paced to honor both the intensity of deep practice and the need for integration.

Expect to experience profound quiet moments where the mind naturally settles, alternating with rich teachings that illuminate why these practices matter. Sensory immersion is key: the gentle sound of bells signaling meditation sessions, the feeling of your body rooting into the earth during qigong, the taste of nourishing vegetarian meals, and the sight of mist rising off the mountain valleys at dawn. Whether you're sitting in silent meditation or learning to direct chi through specific body pathways, each element is designed to awaken your capacity for inner awareness.

By the retreat's conclusion, many practitioners report a palpable shift in clarity, calm, and connection—a "great inner connection" that extends far beyond the meditation retreat event itself and into daily life.

About the Artists

Mingtong Gu is a highly respected Qigong master and founder of the Chi Healing Institute, renowned for making ancient Chinese energy practices accessible to modern Western students. His innovative approach integrates traditional qigong principles with contemporary healing modalities, helping thousands worldwide harmonize body, mind, and spirit. At this meditation retreat in Phoenicia, Mingtong brings decades of expertise in cultivating and directing vital life force, complementing the Dzogchen teachings with powerful energetic practices that prepare the system for deeper meditation.

Venue & Location

Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa sits nestled in the serene Catskill Mountains in Phoenicia, NY—a region celebrated for its natural beauty, clean mountain air, and retreat-conducive atmosphere. This dedicated meditation retreat venue features comfortable accommodations, vegetarian dining, and spa facilities designed to support your well-being throughout the event. The surrounding landscape of dense forests and mountain streams provides an ideal container for turning inward; being away from urban stimulation helps practitioners access the quietness needed for genuine inner work. Parking is available on-site, and the retreat center is easily accessible by car from New York City (roughly 2 hours north).