Chöd, the practice of severance, is a profound ritual for dealing with fears, illnesses, and difficult emotions. Developed in the 11th century by the great Tibetan yogini Machig Labdrön, the practice of Chöd slowly transformed from an obscure practice lineage into a cornerstone of multiple schools of Tibetan Buddhism.

The practice of Chöd is a unique blend of the Mahayana, Vajrayana, and Tibetan Shamanic traditions, with deep philosophical roots in the Prajñāparamitā (Perfection of Wisdom) literature. The practice is sung with accompaniment by a ritual drum and bell, creating a ritual environment that is rich with many layers of symbolic and energetic depth.

Chöd practitioners in Tibet were long renowned for their supreme healing capacity, especially in instances of epidemic disease. They would be regularly called upon to lead funerary activities, especially in cases when people have died from contagious disorders, due to their miraculous ability to deflect illness and work with unseen forces. While early western Tibetologists erroneously classified Chöd as a kind of wrathful “exorcism” ritual, Machig’s practice is in fact often regarded as a supremely peaceful offering rite. Instead of banishing or fighting with negative forces, Chöd facilitates the ceremonial offering of one’s own body as sustenance for the various guests included in the feast. Through this profound act of love, one’s self-clinging is undermined and awakening naturally dawns.

Instruments needed for the practice: A Chöd damaru drum, bell & vajra (Tib. dorje), and kangling (thigh-bone trumpet – optional). Please visit the Dakini Store to shop our Chöd Collection. 

Suggested materials include: 

• Chöd accessory bundle
• Chöd drum
• Bell & Dorje/Vajra
• Kangling

Key Features

Cut through fear, fixation and clinging, by nurturing not fighting, what disturbs our mind. This Chod practice is empowered through the lineage of the Tibetan Dzogchen master, Chögyal Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche. Lama Tsultrim Allione and Dorje Lopön Chandra Easton are among Tara Mandala’s Teachers who have been authorized by Chögyal Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche to teach this Chöd practice. 

What Will I Learn?

• Learn an ancient practice for healing and transformation, as it was taught and practiced 1,000 years ago.
• Learn directly from Lama Tsultrim, a direct emanation of Machig Labdrön, with over 8 hours of video teachings.. 
• Study the life and teachings of one of Tibet’s most extraordinary female yoginis, Machig Labdrön.
• Engage the mind and senses with traditional music, melody, and visualization.

Who is This Course For? 

• New and seasoned practitioners interested in the shamanic roots of Tibetan Buddhism. 
• Completion of this program fulfills the requirement for Magyu: The Mother Lineage practitioners. 

Includes:

Great for first-time Chödpas or seasoned practitioners, this program includes teachings and practice demonstrations centering around:

• The historical and philosophical foundations of Chöd
• The life story of Machig Labdrön, matriarch of the Chöd tradition
• Meaning and symbolism of the Chöd implements
• Practice explanation (Tib. Tri) for the Chöd sadhana of Chögyal Namkha’i Norbu Rinpoche
• Instructions for performing a Chöd retreat or pilgrimage and Tsog
• Instructions for healing others with Chöd
• Advice for integrating Chöd with Feeding Your Demons®
• 8+ hours of on-demand video
• 12 video sessions of Lama Tsultrim’s teachings
• Audio recordings of the practice
• Video teachings of the drum, melodies and instruments
• Support materials including how to do Chöd Tsog, retreat, and pilgrimage
• How this practice integrates with Feeding Your Demons®.

Prerequisites 

• There are no prerequisites to begin this course.
• All students learning via this course are encouraged, when offered, to also receive the  “Lung” (oral transmission) of this practice in order to receive the full benefit and blessings of the lineage.  Lama Tsultrim offers the Lung live regularly. It is free and open to all.  For more information on when an upcoming live transmission may be offered or to register please go here. 

Program Price: $275

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