John Henderson has spent nearly 30 years studying Buddhist philosophy and practicing meditation. Since 2003, he has also been a senior student of the Dharmakaya Center’s founder, Rimay master Trungram Gyalwa Rinpoche.

In addition to his long spiritual path, John has brought these teachings into his professional life as a serial entrepreneur, leading healthcare and real estate businesses, and serving on the boards of numerous not-for-profit organizations in the Northeast. He has taught at the Center since it opened in 2017, leading many programs both in person and online, and offering individual meditation guidance to retreat guests and volunteers.

COMMENTS FROM FORMER STUDENTS

"John models the attributes that I am always working on developing. Graciousness, patience, compassion. It's one thing to teach it, another to live it."

"John was fantastic. His teaching has changed my life for the better."

"I absorbed more from John's teachings than from any other Buddhist materials I've seen."

"I really enjoyed this experience – a weekend I will never forget which may have changed my view on a few things."

"John's teachings were excellent. He provided very clear explanations and was generous with his time with answering questions."

"The balance of teaching/questions, contemplation and meditation practice was optimal. I have a much better understanding of the practice and its relevance in my life."

"John was wonderful. Full of warmth, wisdom and patience"

"I feel calm and re-energized. I am excited to restart my personal practice and feel inspired to apply a number of new techniques that enrich my daily life."

"John is an excellent teacher. I really appreciated how he adjusted his planned presentation to accommodate our many questions"

GUIDED MEDITATIONS

(please click to link to the meditation)

[Shamatha Meditation](

[Walking Meditation](

[Mindfulness Meditation on Feelings](

[Blue Light Meditation](

[Meditation: Blue Light with Counting](

[Loving Kindness Meditation](

[Meditation on Compassion](

[Meditation on Impermanence](

Upcoming Programs by John Henderson

Just Be: A Springtime Personal Retreat

May 22 - 25, 2026

As summer approaches, step away from everyday pressures and settle into the quiet beauty of our Center. This long weekend personal retreat invites you to turn inward, with time for practice, solitude, our peaceful woods, the library, and delicious cuisine. Just be.

Buddhist Meditation: Cultivate Wellbeing through the Skills of Awareness

June 19 - 21, 2026

What is the best way to meditate? Is meditation the same as mindfulness? And what practical benefits can it bring? In this accessible program, we’ll explore key Buddhist concepts and meditation practices, and how they come together as a connected spiritual path toward deeper awareness and wellbeing.

Write Now. A Summer Retreat for Writers

Also With Minna Zallman Proctor

August 14 - 21, 2026

Take a deep dive into your writing practice, supported by optional group meditation, gentle yoga, woods walks, and the opportunity for one-on-one mentoring and guidance.

Fall Reset: Come Into Yourself

Also With Bob Blanton, Madalina Blanton, Kati Walker and Anna Winkler

September 18 - 20, 2026

Fall is often a season of new beginnings. Reconnect with nature, the present moment, and your inner self through a rich range of meditative practices, including stillness meditation, yoga, walking meditation, guided compassion meditation, personal outdoor meditation, reiki, qi gong, and singing bowls.

The Power of Silence: A Silent Retreat for Body, Mind, and Spirit

October 12 - 16, 2026

Feeling overwhelmed by noise and constant activity? Enter the doorway of silence and rest in the peace of present-moment awareness during four days of meditation and self-reflection, surrounded by peak foliage in the beautiful Hudson Valley.

Mindfulness in Pine Bush

Mindfulness in Pine Bush