Coordinator and Leader of multiple interest-based groups, SGS board member George Gomez leads a discussion on how form, promote, and sustain Affinity Groups to grow a sense of community and warmth both locally and at a larger scale.

How do our contemplative practices support us as we are challenged and welcomed in different social contexts (which include our vast internet “space” online)? How might our different social identities change as navigate through situations of family, work, community? In this presentation, Elaine will explore how contemplative practice helps us perceive and inhabit personal and interpersonal dynamics.

Be present and connected in your home with feng shui and mindfulness techniques. Meditation is seeing and sensing your interconnection between your inner and outer environments. Join us to learn more about the mindfulness of spaces, an invitation to connect and become friendly with your home, and in turn your innermost self.

From 1970, and for the next few years, Trungpa Rinpoche visited the San Francisco Zen Center quite a number of times.
Here are stories from two of those visits.

From 1970, and for the next few years, Trungpa Rinpoche visited the San Francisco Zen Center quite a number of times.
Here are stories from two of those visits.

"It is not enough to always abide by the rules."  -- Chögyam Trungpa

Every choice we make, from the seemingly insignificant to life-changing decisions, affects the course of our life and path. We usually make choices according to habits and norms, and as practitioners we also rely on our teachers and institutions. But what truly matters for each of us is our state of mind.

The process of hearing, contemplating and meditating is indispensable for gradually taking us from always depending on the advice and instructions of others to having confidence in our innate nonconceptual wisdom.

For many of us the greatest challenges and opportunities in our spiritual development come from working with others. The Shambhala teachings are rich in helpful advice, but how do we apply them?


Personal interactions can be challenging as well as inspiring. Drawing on my own experiences I will discuss ways I have found to apply the Shambhala teachings in the everyday interactions of working with those we share our life with. I will discuss how the qualities of the Shambhala warrior can guide us in our interactions with others, and also help us to develop resilience and strength.

How can we met ecological loss and uncertainty with an open heart, staying present to the emotions that arise? For over a decade I have been walking with trees dying from bark beetles, drought, fire and more. Drawing from my experiences, sharing art and story, we will explore how meditation practices can help meet ecological changes and devastation with fresh eyes.

Protecting the earth requires we reduce, reuse, recycle. Please join a conversation exploring some of the slogans of Atisha, that will guide our work as climate activists and lovers of this earth.

Lha, Nyen and Lu are Shambhala principles of natural order and hierarchy. Lha refers to our most deeply held vision and values. Rediscovering Lha, can offer fresh direction and empowerment during this time global crises and community transitions.