Tara Rokpa Relaxation and Massage
Heather Dudley, Deputy Manager at Lothlorien, is a qualified Tara Rokpa Therapist who facilitates relaxation sessions 3 times per week. The relaxation methods are based on the Tara Rokpa Therapy Process. Tara Rokpa Therapy was developed in the late 1970s by Dr. Akong Tulku Rinpoche (co-founder of Samye Ling Tibetan Centre and founder of Rokpa Trust).
Relaxation is the heart and foundation of Tara Rokpa Therapy, and compassion is the essence. It is an holistic approach which embraces the union of mind and body. The aim of the relaxation methods is to address any imbalance whether physical, mental or emotional. It is a self-heal, self-help process. The exercises are offered as therapeutic tools to repair the strain and tension brought about by the conditions of modern life. Working with relaxation brings about a greater sense of being in the present and encourages openness and groundedness.
The relaxation sessions comprise of breathing exercises, awareness of body sensations and simple visualisation of healing lights. There are regular sessions of massage, which is presented at a beginners level with the emphasis on friendly exchange. In addition there are ‘free painting’ sessions as a means of playful exploration and self expression. The art work is seen as a therapeutic tool and as relaxation.
Qigong
Qigong (pronouced ‘chee gong’) consists of sets of gentle exercises which are designed to promote health and vitality. It is closely related to Tai Chi.
We do a 20 minute session of Qigong three mornings a week. In addition, we have a number of day-long workshops every year with a teacher from the Seven Stars School of Taijiquan.