The Applied Experiential Component

Studying the methodology is one thing. Applying it—systematically, across the full range of daily experience, under conditions that actually allow the investigation to work—is another. Tarpa's meditation laboratories are where that second step becomes possible.

Located in a secluded area of Vershire, Vermont, with peaceful views of the surrounding hills, Tarpa's facilities have hosted over 30 students for immersive study since opening in 2024, ranging from one week to over three months. Dr. Seton lives on-site, ensuring direct access to instruction throughout.

Why the Laboratory Is Necessary

The contemplative methodology makes a specific claim: that attentional awareness can be developed not just in formal sitting practice but across all daily activities—preparing food, eating, walking, bathing, sleeping, managing emotions. Testing that claim—finding out whether it's true, how it works, and what it produces—requires an environment where all those activities can be brought under sustained investigative attention without the competing demands of ordinary life constantly interrupting the experiment.

In everyday environments, that experiment is compromised before it begins. Not because students lack commitment, but because the conditions for sustained observation simply don't exist when work, relationships, devices, and ordinary routine are all competing for attention simultaneously.

The facilities provide those conditions. Like a controlled laboratory for acoustic research, a dedicated field station for ecological study, or a practice room for conservatory musicians, they are simplified, distraction-reduced environments designed to make the intended learning possible. Students come not to live a contemplative lifestyle but to conduct an investigation that cannot be conducted anywhere else.

What Students Are Investigating

The online curriculum presents the claims of the contemplative tradition alongside findings from neuroscience and psychology — treating both as hypotheses rather than conclusions. In retreat, students test those hypotheses in direct experience.

Does developing stable, sustained attention actually change the quality of ordinary perception in the ways the tradition describes? Do the habitual patterns that seemed so fixed in daily life become more visible—and more workable — under the simplified conditions of retreat? Do the methods the tradition developed for working with difficult emotions and ingrained mental habits actually function as described?

Students observe, record their findings in reflective journals, discuss what they notice with Dr. Seton, adjust their experimental approach based on the evidence, and reach their own conclusions. Neither the tradition's account nor the scientific account is presented as authoritative. The student's own carefully conducted investigation is what matters.

Curriculum Integration

Each study intensive corresponds to a floor of the Palace of Learning curriculum. Students typically complete a floor's online content before entering an intensive to apply and investigate what they've studied. The duration of study intensives reflect the pedagogical requirements of each floor—what the investigation at that level actually requires in terms of time and conditions.

• Curriculum Level  •  Study Period  •  Primary Investigation

• Foundation  •  2–3 days  •  Basic posture, solitary living, preliminary observation

• First Floor  •  7–10 days  •  Stabilizing attention; investigating perception and habitual patterns

• Second Floor  •  14–28 days  •  Extending investigation to identity, relationships, and compassion

• Third Floor  •  30–90 days  • Visualization and imaginative reframing as investigative instruments

• Golden Roof  •  90–120 days  •  Integration of prior investigations; open awareness

A study intensive is optional — the online curriculum stands on its own. But for students seeking the full educational experience, study intensives are where theoretical understanding becomes personal knowledge.

Instruction and Daily Structure

Students work directly with Dr. Seton before, during, and after a study intensive. Before each intensive he works with each student to assess their curriculum level, clarify their investigative questions, and design an appropriate daily structure. During the intensive he provides individualized instruction through regular meetings—reviewing observations, adjusting the experimental approach, connecting what students notice with the theoretical frameworks they've studied. After the intensive, follow-up sessions help students assess what they found and integrate it into daily life.

A typical day during a study intensive includes:

• Morning: Formal practice session, mindful breakfast preparation and eating

• Mid-morning: Study time with assigned readings and course materials

• Afternoon: Continued practice and study; one hour of community service

• Evening: Dinner preparation, evening practice session, reflective journaling

• Throughout: Applying investigative attention to all daily activities—the primary experiment

Community Service

Every student dedicates one hour daily to hands-on volunteer work for a charitable organization of their choosing. This is an integral part of the curriculum—not an add-on. Genuine contemplative education develops clarity and compassion that are most valuable when brought back to community. Students choose service aligned with their skills and interests, with options including work for Tarpa's educational mission, local community projects, or online support for other nonprofits.

Practical Information

Tarpa's meditation laboratories are open to any member of the public. You don't need to complete the online curriculum before scheduling a study intensive. Students at any level—including those just beginning—are welcome to start the curriculum from within the meditation laboratories, combining theoretical study and applied experiential learning from day one. Dr. Seton works with each student to design a schedule appropriate to their background and goals. No religious affiliation, no prior experience, and no prerequisites required. All programs are free; donations are welcome but never required for access.

Location: 317 North Road, Vershire, Vermont – See map

Details: For practical information about using the meditation laboratories, read the facilities handbook.

Questions? See our FAQ or contact us to speak with Dr. Seton directly about what a study intensive would look like for you.