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Living Dharma: Bridging Himalayan Wisdom and Western Education
TSUNMA KUNSANG PALMO, 2025
Tsunma Kunsang Palmo recounts her path from rural England to becoming a devoted Buddhist nun immersed in meditation and retreat. She recalls her first encounter with the Dharma in Nepal, taking refuge with Lama Zopa Rinpoche, and the profound lessons gained during her extended retreat under Mingyur Rinpoche. Kunsang also discusses the significance of vows, the rhythms of community life, and the rigorous three-year retreat tradition, emphasizing how the Tergar Institute blends traditional Buddhist wisdom with Western education to nurture authentic practice and sangha connection. Additionally, the conversation touches on monastic life and the evolving landscape of Dharma across East and West.

This interview is part of the Way of the Bodhisattva Immersion course.

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Excerpt from Our Interview with Kunsang Palmo

Many of us in Tergar have had the good fortune to learn from Tsunma Kunsang Palmo. In this interview excerpt, Tergar Guide Tim Olmsted asks Kunsang why it is that she took monastic vows and became a nun. In her response, Kunsang describes vows not as rigid rules but as “a way of protecting the mind.”

In the full interview, Tsunma Kunsang Palmo recounts her path from rural England to becoming a devoted Buddhist nun immersed in meditation and retreat. She recalls her first encounter with the Dharma in Nepal, taking refuge with Lama Zopa Rinpoche, and the profound lessons gained during her extended retreat under Mingyur Rinpoche. Kunsang also discusses the significance of vows, the rhythms of community life, and the rigorous three-year retreat tradition, emphasizing how the Tergar Institute blends traditional Buddhist wisdom with Western education to nurture authentic practice and sangha connection.

This conversation is included in the Vajrayana Online membership, which also gives you instant access to a growing library of guest teacher interviews, 25+ courses, guided meditations, live sessions, and more.

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This interview is part of the Essence of the Way of the Bodhisattva course.

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