Should one elect to deepen one's spiritual practice through progressive study and practice with a Sukhasiddhi teacher, one may step onto the Mandala's First Level, that of Dharma Student. The level of commitment is determined by the student in discussion with a teacher.

From the first level of the Sukhasiddhi Mandala one engages in the Three Trainings which are the principle aspects to the Buddhist path: ethical conduct; samadhi or profound calm abiding, which at the fruition level is non-dual; and knowledge.

To deepen their relationship with the teachings, practices and primary Sukhasiddhi teachers, Dharma Students participate in the following Sukhasiddhi activities:

Samatha of Mahamudra (calm abiding)
At the First Level, Samatha of Mahamudra is the primary practice. Samatha develops concentration and allows a practitioner to disidentify herself from her constant stream of discursive thought. One commits to at least 20 minutes of Samatha meditation a day. One can receive instruction during class or by individual appointment with a Sukhasiddhi Practice Mentor or Teacher.

Yidam Practice: Tara and Chenresik
At Sukhasiddhi, the first yidam practices are of Tara and Chenresik, a female and a male embodiment of compassion. Students may learn the practices in either or both Tibetan and English and receive the empowerments.

Posture, Breathing, Lujong
Correct posture is critical to maximizing the effectiveness of meditation, as are the several types of cleansing breaths to take in fresh air (Sanskrit: prana; Tibetan: lung) and dispel stale air (prana/lung). Lujong, a form of Tibetan yoga, straightens the subtle channels (Tibetan: tsa, Sanskrit: nadi), promotes healthy circulation of prana, and increases vitality, strength and body/mind flexibility.

Lojong, Niguma's Tonglen
Lojong (Tibetan: mind training) turns the mind away from ordinary ways of reacting and towards the enlightened or bodhisattva way. Students learn to practice its seven principles and 59 phrases, incorporating them into daily life. In addition, through Niguma's tonglen, a primary meditation practice of the bodhisattva path often called "taking and sending," we begin to take on the suffering of others, develop loving kindness and compassion and learn to transform our own and others' suffering. Tonglen is a powerful gate to experiencing one's buddha nature.

Cultivating Balance and Health
Sukhasiddhi emphasizes the value of living a balanced life that includes physical exercise, psychological well-being, healthy and satisfying relationships, meaningful work, service and spiritual development.

Study Topics: Introduction to the Three Yana's Theory; Shravakayana, Mahayana, Vajrayana
The yanas (vehicles) are the main organizing principles of Buddhist teachings. Vajrayana, the third, is built on an understanding of the preceding two. After familiarizing oneself with the three yana's theory, a First Level Student practices and studies the Shravakayana and begins the study of Mahayana. This study and practice will continue through all levels of training.

Fundamental Shravakayana Study Topics
Shravakayana focuses on the teachings and practices that develop individual understanding, integrity and discipline. Study and practice topics include:

Fundamental Mahayana Topics
Mahayana, the Great Vehicle, focuses on developing loving kindness, compassion and understanding emptiness. Study topics include:

Dharma Student Reading List

Commitments at the Dharma Student Level

Initially, the commitment is to attend class regularly and to meditate daily for at least 20 minutes. Gradually, one studies, reflects on, and contemplates the teachings and upholds all of the commitments of this level. A student may take one or more of the five precept vows (no killing, stealing, lying, sexual misconduct or intoxication) either personally or formally. At this level, the culmination of practice entails receiving and committing to the Refuge and Bodhisattva Vows.

Membership and Service Commitments
Dharma Students maintain membership in Sukhasiddhi, paying dues regularly at their personal level of financial comfort. Dharma students are asked to serve at Sukhasiddhi events and/or periodically in ongoing administrative capacities.

Duration of Level
Unless a student enters Sukhasiddhi with an advanced level of Vajrayana practice, the First Level takes approximately two years. This does not mean that practices and topics from the next level cannot be explored, but at least two years is generally required to prepare a student for the depth of commitment the second level entails.

Since the practices of Dharma Student Level are extremely profound, some students may not feel the necessity to go further. Indeed, a student may remain a Dharma Student for her entire relationship with Sukhasiddhi.