Dharma Academy is the Buddhist training portal of Il Cerchio.
Founded in 2021 by Master Tetsugen, Dharma Academy has become a leading center for the study and practice of Zen Buddhism in Italy. Through a rich program of courses, masterclasses, workshops, conferences, and seminars, it is the leading online training institute for the dissemination of Zen Buddhism in Italy and Europe.
Dharma Academy offers study and research opportunities to deepen your Buddhist practice and embark on a path of personal growth. It offers Zen Buddhist teachings and practices, grounded in critical and free thinking with a unique approach. Beyond academic study, it encourages experiential learning, grounded in the practice of helping all beings address the challenges of an increasingly complex and pluralistic world. It emphasizes contemplative education and experiential learning, which is why academic studies are enriched by self-reflection and mindfulness training.
Dharma Academy's educational offerings are designed for the curious, practitioners, and experts, and offer in-depth learning opportunities for all levels of expertise through the Three-Year Course, Short Courses, and Meditations. Dharma Academy's approach aims to cultivate students who seek introspection, learn to practice it in contemporary society, and apply Buddhist teachings and the spirit of Zen to their everyday lives.
Three-year course
The Three-Year Course in Zen Buddhism is the first advanced training program in Europe to bring together leading experts with internationally renowned university professors to offer practitioners and students an educational journey through the history, philosophy, ethics, and practices of Zen Buddhism. Unique in its kind, the Three-Year Course is the result of a flourishing academic collaboration between international Masters and instructors . The training program includes online and in-person seminars, retreats at Zen monasteries in Italy, international conferences, assessments, and interaction between the participating Sangha and instructors.
Courses
Our courses are designed to introduce you to the world of Zen and deepen your understanding of its practices . The training program is aimed at Buddhist practitioners, students, and anyone who wants to delve deeper into the Buddha's teachings, our age-old tradition, and embark on a new and unique path. Dharma Academy offers the Oriental Calligraphy Course, the Vegetarian Japanese Cooking Course, and the Zen Basic Program.
Meditations
Zen meditations can have amazing effects on the mind and body, and can be practiced anywhere, anytime. Dharma Academy offers several courses dedicated to guided meditation taught by Zen Master Tetsugen Serra . Designed for both experts and beginners, the meditations teach relaxation techniques and reflections on daily life, foster creativity, and help manage work-related stress.
