Yoga Vacation Program
October 22 — 24, 2027

Mind Lab

9 Stages of Meditation: A Practical Roadmap

Earle Birney

Based on the timeless teachings of the great Indian master Kamalashila (740–795 CE), this program offers a clear and practical roadmap for anyone seeking to deepen their meditation practice. Kamalashila’s Stages of Meditation describe the nine progressive stages a meditator moves through—from beginner to advanced practitioner—and outline the five common obstacles, their eight antidotes, and the precise techniques to apply at each stage.

In an age of endless distractions, this teaching provides much-needed clarity and structure. Whether you are new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, you will gain tools to:

  • Improve focus and concentration
  • Develop mental discipline and overcome distractibility
  • Cultivate emotional steadiness and inner balance
  • Bring mindfulness into every moment, allowing you to fully experience life’s natural beauty and joy

What makes this program unique:
With so many methods and philosophies surrounding meditation, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin—or how to progress. Kamalashila’s map simplifies the path, revealing that the challenges we face in practice are universal, and the solutions are timeless. By understanding these principles, you can approach any meditation technique with greater confidence and effectiveness.

Benefits of attending:

  • Understand the step-by-step development of single-pointed concentration
  • Learn precise meditation terminology and methods for steady progress
  • Receive practical tools to strengthen focus and calm the restless mind
  • Gain insight into measurable, predictable progress in meditation—just like learning a musical instrument
  • Discover how ancient wisdom can illuminate your modern practice—and how mastery of the mind leads to freedom, peace, and profound joy.

Offered as 3 satsangs and 2 workshops (subject to change).

The presentations associated with this Yoga Vacation Program begin with an 8pm satsang on the first day of the program and conclude with an 8pm satsang on the last day of the program.  Click here to read more about the Yoga Vacation Program details and view the ashram schedule for yoga classes and meals during your stay. We suggest you arrive at least one day prior to the start of your program for the optimal experience.

Earle Birney grew up in Vancouver, Canada – immersed in sports, surrounded by close friends, and a supportive network of coaches, adults and teachers.

Leaving University behind in 1995, Earle spent two years in New Zealand’s prestigious Paremoremo Institute where he started studying yoga and meditation. Earle then went on to co-create Diamond Mountain University in southern Arizona where he completed a 15 year program in Tibetan Buddhism, concluding with a 3 year silent meditation retreat starting in 2011.

Earle now is the head of curriculum development and lead teacher with the Yoga Studies Institute (YSI). YSI reaches over 10,000 students a year, leading yoga programs and retreats, meditation teacher trainings, and philosophy workshops.

With three decades of committed practice, Earle aims for integrity between theory and action and now most enjoys guiding people in their personal practices while making these often esoteric teachings practical and culturally relevant to meet the beauty and challenges of everyday life.

Earle lives in NYC with his partner Sarah, is developing a deep love (addiction?) for coffee and enjoys his sunday soccer.

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