We invite you to join us for a profound opportunity to learn the Chöd of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu with Lama Tsultrim Allione and Lopön Karla Jackson-Brewer, M.S. For the first time Lama Tsultrim will also teach the accompanying Tsog practice that Chögyal Namkhai Norbu taught in 2012. Chöd is a unique blend of Buddhist tradition through Aryadeva and the native Tibetan shamanic practices. This centuries-old practice is sung, and is accompanied by the use of a traditional Chöd drum and bell. Historically it was used for healing, and more importantly to cut through fear, pride and ego-clinging. It is based on the principle that when we nurture and don’t fight what assails us, the struggle relaxes and we find the demon becomes an ally. This gives rise to the awareness of the empty nature of afflictive emotions. 

This retreat will teach the entire Chöd practice and Tsog according to the Chöd that Chögyal Namkhai Norbu dreamt.  You will learn the melodies, instruments, and visualizations to be able to incorporate this powerful practice into your life. 

In this retreat you will have the opportunity to:

• Learn the Chöd practice and melodies as transmitted and taught by Chögyal Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche.
• Learn about the life and teachings of the great yogini, Machig Labdrön, who established the Chöd practice.
• Receive direct instruction on how to play the Chöd drum, kangling (thighbone trumpet) and bell. 
• Integrate the visualizations with the voice and instruments. 
• Participate and integrate Tsog as part of your practice. 

Who Should Attend? 

• This retreat is open to all.
• This is a required retreat for the Magyu: The Mother Lineage Program.

Are There Prerequisites?

There are no prerequisites for this retreat.

To prepare for this retreat, you will need:

• A Chöd drum, bell, and kangling, most of which are available through our Dakini Store. Note: It is not required that you have all of these items upon attending the retreat; however, eventually, they are necessary to do the full practice. This is a wonderful way to support Tara Mandala. 

Program Tuition

$335 Standard Tuition
$245 Community Supported Tuition

Learn more about available financial assistance options and apply for a scholarship here.

Installment Payment Plan Option at Registration
Recognizing that everyone’s financial situation is unique, Tara Mandala strives to make its programs as accessible as possible. During registration, participants have the option to either pay the program fee in full or select the Installment Payment Plan. For those choosing the installment plan, a 25% deposit is required at registration, with the remaining balance automatically divided into equal monthly payments. The final payment is due 14 days prior to the program’s start date. If retreat enrollment occurs close to the start date, additional arrangements can be made. For any questions or special requests, the Finance Team is ready to assist at care@taramandala.org.

Sustaining Sangha
If you are currently a member of our Sustaining Sangha, you may apply your Online Program discount to this course. To learn more about Sustaining Sangha membership, benefits, and discounts, click here. 

Offering dana to the Teacher
The practice of offering dana, which means “generosity,” is the traditional offering the student makes to the teacher as a symbol of appreciation, gratitude, and reciprocity for receiving the precious teachings. Information on offering dana to the teacher will be provided during the program. To learn more about dana and suggested dana ranges, please click here. 

The suggested dana for this program is $50 – $150.

Tentative Schedule
This schedule provides an overview of the retreat’s flow. The sequence of activities and timing may be adjusted before and during the retreat. All times are Mountain Daylight Time. Please use this link to view how this daily schedule is translated into your time zone.  

Friday, May 29, 2026
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm MDT Teaching Session
2:45 pm – 3:30 pm MDT Practice Session

Saturday, May 30, 2026
7:30 am – 8:00 am MDT Practice Session
9:00 am – 11:30 am MDT Teaching Session
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm MDT Teaching Session
2:45 pm – 3:30 pm MDT Practice Session

Sunday, May 31, 2026
7:30 am – 8:30 am MDT Practice Session
9:00 am – 11:30 am MDT Teaching Session
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm MDT Tsog & Closing

Recording Access
All participants will have a 1-year access period to the recordings.

Tara Mandala Pricing Guidelines
As we strive to become an equitable, diverse, and inclusive community, our pricing guidelines are designed to serve as a map, inviting each of us to assess the resources that contribute to our access to precious dharma teachings. While we do ask you to look inward, please know there is no right or wrong answer. We encourage you to select the range/rate that is most suitable for your circumstances. To learn more about Tara Mandala’s pricing guidelines for Online Programs, In-Person Retreats, and Special Promotions, please visit this page. 

What is a Tara Mandala Online Program?
Tara Mandala offers online programming via live and pre-recorded curricula, providing you with the opportunity to access dharma teachings, engage in guided practice, experience personal retreats and hands-on learning, and connect with other participants through easy-to-use online platforms and an engaged community network. When needed, the program description and schedule will inform you in advance if and when a specific online session must be attended live, if a direct transmission (Tib. lung) may be given. Access to recordings of all sessions will be available for additional viewing for one year. 

Online Programs Cancellation and Refund Policy

Mental Health Disclaimer
While Tara Mandala offers profound Buddhist teachings and a supportive spiritual community, we do not provide mental health services, and our teachers are not operating as mental health professionals. Spiritual guidance provided by a Tara Mandala teacher is not a substitute for professional mental health support. We honor the importance of mental well-being and encourage community members seeking support to connect with licensed professionals in their local area. For immediate assistance with mental health concerns, please contact your local crisis resources or emergency services.