The Tibetan word “damtsig,” “samaya” in Sanskrit, means “close bond.” It refers to practices that create a close bond between us and a Buddha-figure or our spiritual teacher.

Disturbing emotions are those that make us lose peace of mind and self-control.

A Kalachakra initiation is a Buddhist ceremony in preparation for tantric meditation and for bringing harmony to the world.

This article introduces the mandala, a sophisticated tool used in Buddhist meditation practices.

Mantras are a tool we can use to keep focused on a positive state of mind.

An overview of the structure of a “sadhana,” a visualization method used in tantra for generating and actualizing ourselves as a Buddha-figure.

An explanation of the types of initiations in Tibetan Buddhism, what they involve, and their purpose.

The Dharma refers to the Buddha's teachings, which help us to overcome all of our problems.

In an age where we turn to celebrities as role models, the Sangha provides us with the perfect example of a life lived with ethical self-discipline, concentration, and discriminating awareness.

All major religions try to answer the questions around what the self is and where it comes from. The Dalai Lama advises us to develop respect for each of the different traditions in order to know the essence of these religions and thus appreciate their value.