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About The CCN

About The Contemplative Consciousness Network and its roots.

Who we are and what we do

The Contemplative Consciousness Network (CCN), was established in 2011, following the teachings of our president Dr. B. Alan Wallace. We are a charity dedicated to exploring and enhancing human potential and well-being through the study and practice of contemplative consciousness.

Our work is rooted in Buddhist practice and focuses on deepening our understanding of the mind through direct, first-person experience, and integrating traditional wisdom with modern insights into consciousness. We aim to make the diverse and transformative practices of contemplative traditions accessible to a wide audience, including those interested in mindfulness and secular modes of practice.

At CCN, our activities are designed to foster both personal growth and collective well-being. We offer a range of events, including both online and in-person retreats, workshops, and courses, that not only offer theory but practical experience in contemplative practices.

Our inclusive approach welcomes diverse perspectives from the world’s various contemplative traditions, creating a rich environment for learning and dialogue.

Joining CCN means becoming part of a community committed to exploring the depths of the mind and unlocking the full potential of human consciousness for a healthier, more balanced approach; for the individual, the collective and for the planet.

We work closely with Lama Alan’s other organisations, the Santa Barbara Institute for Consciousness Studies (SBI) and the Centers for Contemplative Research (CCR)

Three Pillars of Activity

The root of our work as a charity and practice community is an aspiration to cultivate genuine wellbeing—eudaemonic happiness—and to assist others in that journey. Our approach revolves around organising educational events and creating digital resources centred around contemplative life, guided by Buddhist teachings. Three pillars guide our activities:

HIKING

Explore Contemplative Traditions and Science

Discover the rich tapestry of global contemplative practices and the latest in contemplative science.

We offer events and resources that explore the breadth of contemplative traditions and scientific findings from around the world, delving into their history, philosophy, and unique practices. Our offerings include academic lectures on Tibetan Buddhism and Dzogchen, comparative dialogues between traditions like Buddhism and Christianity, and an exploration of the scientific basis and research findings related to contemplative practices. This pillar aims to build a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of the diverse contemplative heritage of humanity. 

Deepen Your Practice and Understanding

Deepen your practice and understanding  of contemplative practices, guided by the teachings of Lama Alan Wallace.

All the resources in this category revolve around the practices taught by our spiritual director, Lama Alan Wallace—all equally contributing to the experience of genuine happiness. These vitally important practices are:

(1) Attentional training (śamatha)
(2) Cultivating of a kind heart (the four immeasurables)
(3) Developing special insight, or vipaśyanā, by means of the four applications of mindfulness
(4) Transforming our attitudes by means of mind-training (lojong)
(5) Extending clarity into the world of dreams by means of lucid dreaming and dream yoga
(6) Understanding the true nature of the mind with the methods of Great Perfection (Dzogchen) and Great Seal (Mahāmudrā)

These events and these types of training constitute the very heart of our program and what we have to offer as a community; each practice can bring about a powerful transformation and strengthen our resilience, kindness, wisdom, and overall wellbeing. Please join us in this step-by-step practical training.

Apply and Integrate Practice into
Daily Life

Bring contemplative wisdom into everyday life, addressing modern challenges and personal wellbeing.

The final pillar focuses on applying contemplative insights to daily living and contemporary issues. It encompasses the integration of contemplative values into everyday activities and the exploration of their relevance to modern challenges. This includes practical applications in our personal daily lives, but also environmental ethics, social transformation, emotional wellbeing, and the intersection with contemplative science. 

Activities like weekly conscious movement classes (yoga and qigong), community sharing sessions, and group practices are designed to facilitate the practical embodiment of these values in daily life.

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