Learn about Bon Ritual of Soul Retrieval with Lama Kalsang

New Program to be Offered at Serenity Ridge

What is soul retrieval? Where did it come from? Why is it important?

At last month's summer retreat at Serenity Ridge, Lama Kalsang Nyima shared details about the ancient Bon soul retrieval ritual and the new in-depth program that Ligmincha will be offering beginning next year: Soul Retrieval from the Bon tradition. Lama Kalsang will be assisted by Khandro Tsering Wangmo Khymsar. Lama Kalsang explained that the purpose of this Tibetan ritual from Zhang Zhung is to retrieve and bring health to one's soul and life force, or for another person. He said that through this beautiful practice, one develops connection and can be lifted up; one can improve one's health, spirituality and longevity. It is also an energetic and meditative way to heal illness.

This two-year program will include four in-person retreats at Serenity Ridge and includes options for students who only want to learn the practice for themselves, and a certification process for those who want to be able to perform the rituals on behalf of others. The first session of a the two-year program will begin in October 2025. The program will include aspects of the sacred arts of making tormas and namkhas, and learning to use the ritual drum, cymbal and damaru, all in a process that offers a way of deeply connecting to oneself. Lama Kalsang will be assisted by Khandro Tsering Wangmo Khymsar.

The preliminary schedule includes these dates and topics:

Session 1: October 1 - 5, 2025
La Lu or Soul Retrieval
Go step-by-step through the order of the text
Make tormas
Learn melodies
Learn to play instruments (optional) or practice making tormas

Session 2: April 8-12, 2026
Review Session 1 topics
Learn about Chi Lu or Death Ransom
Practice with instruments or make tormas

Session 3: October 7-11, 2026
Review Soul Retrieval & Death Ransom
Mantra Accumulation
Practice with instruments or make tormas

Session 4: April 21-25, 2027
Review of all topics
Test the participants who applied for the Certificate to Perform the Ritual for Others

Lama Kalsang, a resident lama in Mexico, assured everyone: We will learn the details one by one. And we will develop our connection that way. All will be written in English. If you are interested in learning more, all are welcome. It is a beautiful practice, and we will have fun.

More details will be coming soon. Stay tuned!

View video of Lama Kalsang's talk on soul retrieval