Compassion in Everyday Life 20 – 27 September 2026
Led by: Kabir Saxena
As we look at the world around us, it becomes clear that what is needed is more kindness, more compassion, and more tolerance. If we wish for these qualities to grow in the world, we must begin by cultivating them within ourselves.
In this tradition, compassion is understood as a daily practice — a gradual shift from self-centered habits toward a sincere concern for others.
In this course, we will explore how patterns such as irritation, defensiveness, and self-preoccupation arise in ordinary situations, and how we can gently transform them. Drawing from Lamrim and Lojong (mind training), we will learn practical methods to:
- Develop patience and empathy
- Transform life’s challenges into meaningful practice
- Strengthen the intention to care for others
- Integrate compassion into relationships and daily life
Compassion in everyday life is not about becoming passive or self-sacrificing. It is about cultivating inner strength, clarity, and a courageous and open heart.
Because our experience of the world depends upon the mind, training the mind in compassion becomes a meaningful, essential and powerful way to create change.
Open to all levels.
Important to note:
- No previous meditation experience is required
- Commitment to maintain the designated periods of silence
- Commitment to attend all sessions, including discussion group sessions.
Disclaimer
Meditation can sometimes bring up difficult emotions or unresolved issues, particularly for those with existing mental health conditions. If you have any concerns about your emotional wellbeing, we encourage you to speak with a healthcare professional before attending. This course is designed to provide a supportive environment, but individual experiences with meditation may vary.
Details of the course
COURSE DATE: 20 – 27 September 2026
COURSE LEADER: Kabir Saxena
FLAT FEE IN A DORM: US$ 140
The course fee includes all meals, accommodation in a dormitory and a free book.
Students can also choose to stay in single, double and triple rooms with private or shared facilities. There is an extra charge for these types of rooms, please click here and use the red column to know the daily room charges, you will need to add these to the Flat Course Fee.
When you do your booking, please choose your room preferences in accordance with your budget based on this list. Please note that single rooms are limited. We cannot guarantee you will be accommodated in your first room choice, rooms are allocated by order of booking and are confirmed upon arrival.
Check-in time starts at 9am on 20 September. The first session is at 5.30pm, please make sure to be here at that time.
Our reception opens at 9 am and closes at 5.30 pm, arrivals are due to be done only within these times.
The course concludes on 27 September with lunch.
Mobile phones, laptops and other internet-enabled devices must be checked in at the reception for the duration of the course. Read more on course guidelines.
During your stay at Kopan, please observe our dress code and ensure your clothing is appropriate for a monastic environment. You can review the guidelines here.
Approximate Daily Schedule
- 6:45 am – Morning Meditation
- 7:30 am – Breakfast
- 9:15 am – Teachings
- 11:30 am – Lunch & Break
- 2:00 pm – Discussion Groups
- 3:30 pm – Afternoon Teachings
- 5:00 pm – Tea Break
- 5:45 pm – Guided Meditation
- 6:30 pm – Dinner
- 7:30 pm – Evening Program (Talk, Q&A, or Meditation)
