Kum Nye (Tibetan Yoga) Healing Practices for the Modern World

The Nyingma Institute in Berkeley, California is a secular educational center, a place where the public can investigate the teachings of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition and explore the applications of these teachings to Western lifestyles. Founded by Tarthang Tulku in 1972, the Institute offers a full range of classes, workshops, and retreats in Kum Nye Relaxation, Nyingma Psychology, meditation, Tibetan Language, and the essential principles of Buddhist teachings.

 Kum Nye (Tibetan Yoga) is a gentle healing system that relieves stress, transforms negative patterns, and increases our enjoyment of life. Kum Nye opens our senses and our hearts so we feel more satisfied, fulfilled, and appreciative of every aspect of our lives.

The unique value of the Kum Nye system of relaxation is that it integrates and balances two approaches: the physical and the psychological. Kum Nye heals both our bodies and our minds, bringing their energies together to function calmly and smoothly. The exercises stimulate the inner, more subtle energy of the body and are done slowly and mindfully, attentive to feeling. Body and mind make contact with one another, and all experience becomes rich, healthy, and more beautiful.

The written tradition of Kum Nye is contained in Tibetan medical texts, as well as in the ancient Vinaya texts of Buddhism. These texts deal with living in accord with physical and universal laws, and include extensive descriptions of healing practices. Kum Nye (pronounced Koom Nyay) is thus part of the lineage of spiritual and medical theories and practices that links Tibetan with Indian and Chinese medicine.

Although it is based on an ancient tradition, the system of Kum Nye taught at the Nyingma Institute is thoroughly modern. Tarthang Tulku developed the exercises specifically for Western students and hundreds of thousands of people have experienced its benefits over the past 38 years.

 Retreats, workshops, and classes at the Nyingma Institute cover a range of topics and formats. One popular program is the Sunday morning drop-in class from 10 AM to Noon, suitable for both new and ongoing Kum Nye students. Residential retreats provide out-of-town visitors the chance to immerse themselves in Kum Nye practice, while evening classes and certificate programs introduce students to the full range of exercises. Call or e-mail for a schedule of Kum Nye offerings at the Nyingma Institute.