Is this a one-day event or a multi-day residential retreat?

Listed as occurring on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, this appears to be a single-day or single-session retreat; however, Menla programs are typically multi-day immersions, so verify with Menla directly whether this is a day-visit option or part of a longer residential program. Mingtong's full retreats through the Chi Healing Institute are usually intensive multi-day experiences, so clarify dates and accommodation needs before registering.

How does Mingtong approach Dzogchen differently than traditional Tibetan Buddhist teachers?

Mingtong's unique angle is his Chinese Qigong and TCM foundation—he's trained in ancient energy-body maps and cultivation practices distinct from Tibetan Buddhist training. Expect him to potentially frame Dzogchen's non-dual realization through the lens of chi, meridians, and the body's energetic nature rather than through purely philosophical or textual Tibetan Buddhist methods. This makes it relevant for students interested in how Eastern somatic and contemplative traditions intersect.

What should I know about Mingtong's teaching style before committing to this retreat?

Mingtong is known for making ancient practices accessible to modern, global students through practical instruction in qigong, breathwork, and meditation—his style bridges East and West without diluting authenticity. He typically combines direct practice with philosophical context, so expect both guided movement/breathing and teachings on energy and consciousness. If you're looking for a highly academic Tibetan Buddhist approach, his pragmatic, somatic focus may feel different than a traditional Dzogchen master's style.

Dzogchen Retreat: Revealing the Great Inner Connection at Menla | Sep 22

Name: Dzogchen Retreat: Revealing the Great Inner Connection at Menla
Location: Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa

About This Event

Description

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).

FAQs

Dzogchen is a Tibetan Buddhist approach to direct recognition of mind's true nature, which differs from the Yang-style qigong and energy cultivation Mingtong typically emphasizes through the Chi Healing Institute. This retreat bridges his qigong expertise with Dzogchen philosophy to explore what he calls "the great inner connection"—suggesting a focus on non-dual awareness rather than purely energetic or physical healing outcomes. If you're coming for movement-based qigong or breathwork technique, this retreat appears to prioritize contemplative realization.

While Mingtong's background centers qigong and energy practice, his Chi Healing Institute work has always bridged ancient Chinese techniques with modern wellness for global students at varying levels. A Dzogchen retreat at Menla—a dedicated Buddhist retreat center—suggests foundational comfort with sitting meditation and spiritual philosophy is likely assumed, though Mingtong's teaching style typically makes practices accessible. Contact Menla or the Chi Healing Institute directly to confirm whether introductory experience is necessary.

Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, NY is a dedicated Tibetan Buddhist retreat center in the Catskills, designed specifically for multi-day contemplative programs. Mingtong teaching Dzogchen there—rather than at his usual qigong spaces—signals this is an immersive, monastery-style retreat focused on Buddhist non-dual teachings, not a drop-in energy-healing workshop. The venue itself supports deep practice with residential facilities and a contemplative atmosphere.

Mingtong's reputation is built on integrating qigong movement, breathwork (pranayama), and energy cultivation with meditation and healing—not one or the other. A Dzogchen retreat likely weaves movement or energy practices within a contemplative framework rather than being purely seated, but the emphasis will lean toward direct pointing-out instructions in mind nature rather than technique mastery. The retreat description "revealing the great inner connection" suggests energetic and philosophical dimensions working together.

Dzogchen Retreat: Revealing the Great Inner Connection at Menla

Description

What to Expect

About the Artists

Venue & Location

Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa

FAQs

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Dzogchen Retreat: Revealing the Great Inner Connection at Menla

Description

What to Expect

About the Artists

Venue & Location

Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa

FAQs

There's more where this came from.

Discover More Artists

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