The practice of the fasting ritual is an easy yet powerful means to clear away obstacles to physical and mental well-being. It brings the practitioner to the essence of the supreme secret of Avalokiteshvara, the compassionate expression of all buddhas.

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By reciting prayers, repeating the mantra of Avalokiteshvara and offering prostrations, all kinds of negative actions are purified and conditions favorable for spiritual growth will flourish.

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By taking the temporary eight precepts (avoiding killing, stealing, sex, lies, alcohol, high seats or beds, eating after noon, perfume, music and dance, jewelry, etc.), the conditions for experiencing happiness in this and future lives and, ultimately, attaining enlightenment, are created.

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This retreat will be held during the most auspicious time of the year for Nyung-nay practice, full moon of the month of Sagadawa.

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The basics:

• The retreat will be led by Lama Padma Yontan Gyatso 
• The retreat begins with the required empowerment and nyung-nay teachings on Friday afternoon, May 17. 
• Each nyung-nay set is two days–a preliminary day and a complete fasting day.
• We will take the vows each day, starting at dawn on Saturday May 18th. We will renew the vows each morning.
• Meals will be vegetarian and served on the first day of each set. The second day is a complete fast.
• The practice text is “Nyung-nay Fasting Ritual from the Kusum Gongdü Cycle revealed by Tromgé Khakyod Wangpo”, 2013 edition, published by Padma Publishing. It will be available for purchase if you do not have a copy.
• Retreat and fast ends at dawn Sunday morning, May 26. The concluding practice session ends mid-morning.
• Please register by Monday, May 10.