Rigpé Shyönnu
Young people interested in meditation, compassion and Buddhist philosophy
We are an international group of young people (between 18 and 35-ish) who are interested in Buddhist thought and practice.
On this page
About Us
Some of us grew up learning about Buddhism and mindfulness as part of the Rigpa community, some of us are just discovering meditation, and everything in between. Whatever our background or experience, we’re all interested in exploring how Buddhism can benefit the modern world, including us…and you!
You can find us across the world, with higher concentrations in France, Germany, the Netherlands, Ireland and the United Kingdom, occasional occurrences in Austria, Australia, Switzerland, and the United States, and seasonally in Nepal, India and other places.
Whatever our background or experience, we’re all interested in exploring how Buddhism can benefit the modern world, including us…and you!
The Shyönnu Spirit
Open-minded. Fresh. Creative.
What does ‘Rigpé Shyönnu’ mean? It is Tibetan and literally means ‘youth’ or ‘youthfulness’ (‘shyönnu*’) of ‘rigpa’*. ‘Rigpa’ is the wider Buddhist community that we are part of, while in the highest teachings in the Buddhist tradition of Tibet the term ‘rigpa’ means the pure, pristine awareness of the innermost nature of mind.
If that sounds like a lot, don’t worry – we’re still wrapping our heads around it as well! But we use that framing, the youthfulness of our nature of mind, to inspire us.
We bring a creative spark, fresh and playful energy, and an open mind to all that we do, from the events that we run, the practices that we hold, and the lives that we lead.
Our mission: to nurture a sense of community and friendship, supporting one another to work with our minds and hearts amidst life’s ups and downs.
We hope to see you soon at one of our events!
Events
Each summer, we gather for our main signature retreat in the beautiful setting of Lerab Ling, Rigpa’s temple and retreat centre in the south of France. These inspiring, heart-opening gatherings where we practice, learn, and connect, have become a tradition since our group first formed in 2016.
Throughout the year, we also host local events in cities like Amsterdam, Berlin, Cologne and London and other cities. There are regular youth weekends in Lerab Ling for French speakers and youth retreats held in English in Dzogchen Beara, Rigpa’s temple and retreat centre in Ireland (for details, check their websites).
We come together online once in a while and stay in contact through a Whatsapp community and local get-togethers at different Dharma events.
To find out more about our upcoming events, follow us on Instagram or sign up to our newsletter or check the full Rigpa programme for events open to everyone (of all ages).
