preliminary practices (ngöndro)
Preliminary practices, such as prostrations and recitation of the Vajrasattva mantra, done before undertaking major tantric practices.
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Venerable Thubten Chodron The hindrances: Dullness and restlessness
A guided meditation session followed by the continued teaching on the five hindrances to concentration.…
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The preliminary practice of taking refuge
A clear guide on doing the ngondro practice of refuge—how to visualize, count mantra, and…
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Meditation and hindrances
Explanation of the meditation posture, the preliminary practices, and mandala offering. Beginning of teachings on…
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Incarcerated people Adjusting to change
An incarcerated person discusses the difficulties he encounters when a change of routine disrupts his…
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The Sutra of the Three Heaps
The purification practice of prostration to the 35 Buddhas removes emotional burdens and pacifies obstacles…
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The hills we climb
An incarcerated person writes about the joyful effort of practice and what it does for…
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Practices before serenity meditation
Explaining the practices to make the body and mind relaxed. Further details on visualization of…
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Refuge advice
In preparation for retreat: how to recite the mantra to take refuge in the guru,…
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More refuge meditation topics
Examining one's doubts with honesty while taking refuge can enhance the meditation practice.
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Refuge meditation topics
How reflecting on the qualities of the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha can enhance one's meditation…
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Sangha refuge
How to receive the qualities of the Sangha as part of the preliminary practice (ngöndro)…
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