This special fasting and purification practice is performed in conjunction with Eleven-faced Avalokiteshvara. It is very powerful for purifying negative karma of body, speech and mind, and for pacifying strong delusions such as desirous attachment and hatred. It is also a special method for receiving blessings and improving our experience of love, compassion, and bodhichitta.

This retreat is done over two days, with the eight Mahayana precepts being taken at the beginning of each day. On the first day it is customary to abstain from all meals apart from lunch. On the second day we engage in a complete fast, abstaining from all food and drink for twenty-four hours. Those who are unable to engage in a complete fast can participate in the sessions on the second day, provided they take the eight Mahayana precepts on that day. On both days we do three sessions of the puja – one first thing in the morning, one before lunch, and one late in the afternoon.

Gen Kelsang Jigme, the Resident Teacher of Bodhisattva KMC, will give an introduction to the retreat on Friday evening from 7–8.15pm.  As the retreat sessions themselves will not be guided you are encouraged to attend the introduction, especially if you’re new to this practice.