Interview with Urara Taoka
We started planning this project back in 2020, during the COVID lockdown. At that time, we were looking for ways to open up Dzamling Gar and also find sustainable ways to finance it. There was a lot of brainstorming involved, and we also received some valuable advice from consultants. Their insights were quite relevant to our situation here in Tenerife.
We’re lucky to have many talented instructors in the community, so we began shaping this project around that strength. Although it took some time to get the marketing off the ground, since last year things have really started to bloom.
Programs and Practices
Guests can choose from a range of programs based on the open practices of the Dzogchen Community, such as Yantra Yoga, Respira, Vajra Dance, meditation, and even joyful dance sessions.
Among these, Yantra Yoga, Respira, and meditation are especially popular. However, many guests are also very drawn to Vajra Dance because it’s so unique—something they’ve never encountered before. Once they try it, they really enjoy it. Yantra Yoga is a bit more well-known, so people are more familiar with it and eager to try it here.
In Tenerife, it’s not easy to find places that offer authentic meditation. That’s why many people are actively looking for retreats like ours.
For Newcomers and Experienced Practitioners Alike
Originally, the retreat was designed for newcomers. But we’ve found that even community members with experience are coming to refresh and deepen their practice.
We offer customized retreats, which include many private sessions with instructors. If a guest has a physical issue—like knee problems—or needs an adaptation in Yantra Yoga, they can benefit greatly from these tailored sessions.
Feedback from Guests
We’ve received a lot of positive feedback. Guests are often surprised by how beautiful Zamling Gar is—the gardens, the natural surroundings, and the people. They feel very welcomed and comfortable, especially because the programs aren’t overcrowded. We intentionally create space for relaxation and for guests to really absorb the experience—and to enjoy the Tenerife nature. This allows them to truly unwind and reconnect with themselves.
Booking and Accessibility
We started using the platform BookRetreats.com, which has worked well for us. It’s a trusted platform and makes the booking process simple for guests. It’s helped us reach newcomers—many of whom had never heard of the Dzogchen Community before. Some of these guests, after booking through BookRetreats, even came to Zamling Gar and later received transmission from Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche’s successor. So, it’s been a wonderful way to build meaningful connections.
Personalized Experience
When someone books a retreat, they first fill out a registration form where they let us know what programs they’re interested in. Once we receive this form, I personally create and suggest a personalized one-week program for them.
For example, if someone chooses Yantra Yoga and meditation, we assess their level—are they beginners or do they have prior experience?—and then I assign the right instructor for them. We also always include massage therapy options—guests can choose between Ayurvedic massage and Thai oil massage. Often, we begin the retreat with a massage on the day they arrive, helping them relax and feel grounded.
The next day typically starts with a private Yantra Yoga session, giving guests a solid introduction. After a few private sessions, they can join the group sessions (Espacio Program) and feel more confident merging into the community environment.
Some guests prefer more free time—maybe they want to go sightseeing or relax at the beach—so we adapt the schedule to suit their needs.
About Me
I’m originally from Japan and moved to Tenerife. I worked as a massage therapist for over 20 years, and also worked extensively in wellness and volunteer outreach. I co-founded an organization that provided various therapies to different communities. For example, we traveled to disaster-stricken areas in Japan and offered massage therapy, and even went to Cambodia to support HIV-positive communities.
Our approach was always collaborative—we combined different healing methods, not just one kind of therapy. I coordinated these efforts and also consulted for hotel wellness programs.
So, stepping into the Wellness Being Project here at Zamling Gar came very naturally to me. I really enjoy it—it’s meaningful work that brings harmony and healing, and I feel grateful to be a part of it.
