Nalanda West programs are based on the 5 Fields of Knowledge originally taught at the historic Indian university of Nalanda, known in its time as a place where Buddhist and non-Buddhist traditions came together in a spirit of fearless, ecumenical inquiry into universal truths and the sources of genuine happiness. Each of our programs explores one or more of the 5 Fields.
Creativity
Creative expression. The field of creativity is a relationship with the materials and with the creative moment. It is the expression of that moment. It is about creating something needed and meaningful to achieve harmony and balance. This includes influencing and raising children.
This Field of Knowledge includes:
- Music
- Ikebana (Japanese flower arranging)
- Visual arts
- Performance arts
- Calligraphy
- Writing
- Gardening
Health & Well Being
Mental and physical wellness. This field of knowledge refers to all aspects of healing - mental, physical, and environmental - to achieve harmony and balance.
This Field of Knowledge includes, but is not limited to:
- Psychotherapy and mental health professions
- Social Work
- Health Care
- Education
- Hospice
- Yoga
- Ayurvedic Medicine
- Traditional Tibetan Medicine
Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) for professionals are available for our Health & Well Being programs.
Communication
Sound, meaning, and language. The Field of Communication deals with clear communication and working with sound. It includes language, grammar, terminology, poetry and performance (music, dance and theater).
This Field of Knowledge includes, but is not limited to:
- Group dynamics
- Leadership training
- Interpersonal conversation
- Analytical inquiry
- Non-violent communication
- Public speaking
- Poetry and linguistics
The Mind
Cognitive clarity. The application of logic in this field enables us to see and examine the concepts that make up our life experience. Using logic, or clear thinking, we can come to gain clarity and a deep understanding of the mind and its world.
This Field of Knowledge includes, but is not limited to:
- Analytical meditation
- Valid cognition
- Logic
- Debate
In-depth courses in this Field of Knowledge are taught at Nitartha Institute, founded by Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche.
Direct Insight
The view and practices of Buddha Shakyamuni. The focus of this field of knowledge is on various forms of mind training, meditation, and other practices that evoke direct insight, or experiences that lead to awakening.The Buddhist approach begins with questions, not answers.
This Field of Knowledge includes, but is not limited to:
- Meditation instruction
- Beginning and advanced classes
- Weekly Open Houses with meditation and discussion with the Nalandabodhi Mitras (Western Buddhist teachers)
- Regular weekly and monthly meditation
- Esteemed teachers from diverse Buddhist traditions
Nalanda West provides many opportunities to learn about and explore in depth the nature of your mind and experience. In-depth courses in this Field of Knowledge are taught at Nitartha Institute, founded by Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche.