Turning off cell phones for three and a half days to reconnect with oneself, others and nature, and to explore one’s inner wealth: such was the successful outcome of the “Warrior Heart” teen course, which brought together ten young people—five girls and five boys—between the ages of 14 and 17 from October 27 to 30, 2025, at Dhagpo Kagyu Ling. Guided by Michèle and Christian Ribert, martial arts teachers and managers of the Calam Center, and Sylvain Clénet, a student and facilitator of meditation and Buddhist philosophy at Dhagpo Kagyu Ling, the course focused on activities designed to build confidence, create, relax, interact and reconnect with nature.
After breakfast, a typical day began at 9 a.m. in the forest with an introduction to forestry to discover different tree species and how to clear up a wooded area. This was followed by physical activities—an introduction to Asian martial arts for self-defense—with the aim to confront fear, develop self-confidence and a sense of effort. In the afternoon, in addition to a second martial arts session, the teenagers took part in an art workshop to experiment with the different stages of creating graffiti. Employing Chinese calligraphy and street art techniques, they created ephemeral works of art in the heart of nature on sheets of cellophane stretched between two trees. Twice a day, before meals, they meditated for half an hour with very simple instructions on how to relax, cultivate attention and awareness, get to know themselves better and learn how to tame their emotions. Every evening, youth and facilitators gathered for a sharing circle followed by activities—board games, reading, and chatting—with a curfew at 11 p.m.!
Lama Jigme Rinpoche was keen to offer a new format for these teen retreats, which he himself had led for the first time in 1992. It was therefore under his direction that this retreat was set up, enabling young people to acquire tools for better social skills, working and living together, while creating a link with Dhagpo Kagyu Ling.
Enjoy this photo retrospective of the course, an initiative that we hope to repeat in 2026. Feel free to subscribe to the newsletter to stay informed about all the latest news from Dhagpo Kagyu Ling or contact the Welcome office for more information.
Teen Testimonies*
A: Honestly, this camp helped me see my surroundings in a different light. It also taught me how to take breaks and breathe during difficult times. A big thank you to the counselors. I was very touched by the way they took care of us and taught us. Thank you.
A: The course provided me with a real escape during this difficult start to the school year. It also allowed me to see how harmful screens can be in our relationships with others.
J: This workshop helped me realize that I really didn’t need my phone to live, and it created bonds with people I would certainly have barely spoken to in another context. Thank you for everything.
L: This course helped me break away from my phone. It helped me build stronger bonds with my friends, and I am grateful for that. Thank you. This workshop helped me grow mentally (especially with prayer). So, thank you.
M: The workshop helped me understand the importance of really living, disconnected from my phone. It also taught me to slow down and take my time, to appreciate doing nothing for a few minutes. I managed to master new martial arts techniques. Finally, this workshop allowed me to meet inspiring new people, both among the facilitators and the students. Thank you for this rejuvenating week.
M: This workshop gave me a different perspective on the world around me and showed me that life is not virtual. Thanks to this workshop, it is now easier for me to assert myself. Thank you so much. I look forward to seeing you again.
Ö: The course helped me disconnect from my phone and showed me that without it, we can build much stronger bonds with each other in less time. It also helped me a lot mentally. Thank you very much.
R: This course helped me realize that you don’t necessarily need a phone to have a good time with others and that doing group activities in a calm and active way without it is really cool. Thank you for everything!
S: The course allowed me to clearly say no when I don’t want to do something, even if it surprises or displeases the person or people in front of me. Thank you for that. I didn’t have much strength to express what I wanted or didn’t want (the facilitators must have noticed). That’s it 😀.
S: This course allowed me to discover new art and self-defense techniques. It also allowed me to meet new people in a beautiful setting and disconnect from my phone. Thank you so much for this course.