Jnanadakini and Vajra Dance Retreat
From June 2-8, 2026, a retreat was held at Dejamling, the Place of Infinite Bliss, France, guided by three Vajra Dance Teachers: Lorraine Gautier, Izabela Jaroszewska, and Natalia Gershevskaya.
The retreat was designed to integrate the experience cultivated through the essential practice of Jnanadakini—the direct experience of bliss—with the singing and dancing of the Song of the Vajra. It offered a unique opportunity to deepen our understanding of both practices and to discover their profound connection.
Each morning began with an extended practice session, followed by dancing of the Song of the Vajra three or six times. In the afternoons, we engaged in a shorter practice and then continued with the Vajra Dance Thun, including the Thuns of Turning the Wheel of the Vajra.
The Jnanadakini practice was led every day by Izabela. Then Natalia read quotations from the book Longsal Thugthig of Jnanadakini by Chögyal Namkhai Norbu in response to questions that arose, explaining the teachings and exploring their meaning together. Lorraine offered clear, inspiring, and insightful explanations of the many dimensions of the Vajra Dance of the Song of the Vajra, focusing on the meaning of particular lines and helping participants appreciate both their practical and deeper symbolic aspects.
It was an inspiring example of working together.
The entire retreat unfolded in a warm, welcoming, and family-like atmosphere. Everyone contributed wholeheartedly to the shared experience, creating an environment of openness, mutual support, and genuine connection.
Many participants had the opportunity to express their unique talents and capacities. Our new Gekö, Federico, proved to be an excellent host and an outstanding cook. Beyond his culinary skills, he is an exceptionally kind and caring confident person, always ready to offer help whenever needed. Caroline revealed herself to be a remarkable chef as well, preparing refined and delicious meals with unmistakable elegance and a distinctly French touch. Nicole demonstrated extraordinary organizational abilities, ensuring that every aspect of life at the retreat center functioned smoothly and harmoniously.
Each of us was given the space to contribute naturally and authentically, allowing our individual qualities to emerge in service of the whole. This created a sense of ease, appreciation, and joyful collaboration that enriched the retreat experience for everyone.
It was a truly wonderful time together, filled with openness, mutual respect, warmth, joy and friendship. We left Dejamling feeling deeply grateful for the teachings we received, the practice we shared and the precious opportunity to be part of such a supportive and inspiring community.
The retreat will remain in our hearts as a beautiful example of how practice, learning, creativity, and human connection can come together in a spirit of harmony and genuine presence.
Photos by Izabela Jaroszewska
