
For many years it has been a common practice in Benchen Phuntsok Ling to practice Nyung Neh, which is very effective in purifying negative karma, accumulating merit, and opening the heart to compassion.
This practice was brought to Tibet by the Indian nun Gelongma Palmo. Gelongma Palmo herself was seriously ill, and in this state she had a vision of Chenrezig, who gave her the long mantra of Thousand-armed Chenrezig as a source of healing. Thus Gelongma Palmo was restored to health and became a yogini who later attained enlightenment.
The Nyung Neh retreat is a special two-day meditation of the Thousand-armed Chenrezig, which is part of Kriya Tantra. It is said that through the practice of Nyung Neh, the gate to rebirth in the lower realms is closed forever. The completion of eight Nyung Neh is said to lead to rebirth in Dewachen.
Two Nyung Neh will be practiced in sequence. Lama Ngawang Tsultrim will first give instructions on the practice, including visualization. We will then take the eight vows to be taken during Nyung Neh and go step by step through the meditation practice. The retreat includes days of silence as well as days of fasting without food or drink.
Before participating in the Nyung Neh retreat, it is the responsibility of the participant to have a medical examination to ensure that he or she meets the health requirements for participation. In addition, the empowerment of the Thousand-armed Chenrezig is a prerequisite for participation.