Torma Making Workshop with Lama Kalsang Nyima

In this half day workshop Lama Kalsang will teach us to make a traditional Tibetan torma in honor of Yeshe Walmo, the chief protectress of the Yungdrung Bön tradition of Tibet and Bön practitioners. Participants will be able to take their torma home with them. Along with the craft torma making, Lama Kalsang will explain its purpose, history and use.

Tibetan torma making is the traditional art of creating intricate, colorful ritual sculptures. Torma are carefully shaped from dough made of tsampa (roasted barley flour), butter, and sometimes sugar, and are decorated with vibrant colored patterns and symbols. The process involves precise craftsmanship and spiritual intention, as each design represents specific deities, elements, or spiritual concepts.

Tormas are used as offerings to enlightened beings, to support meditation, and symbolize various aspects of the teachings. They are often used in ceremonies to invoke blessings, honor deities, or mark special occasions. The making and offering of tormas helps practitioners connect with spiritual realms and cultivate positive qualities. 

Lama Kalsang Nyima is known for his clear and helpful instruction, wonderful laugh, and great stories related to life and practice in Nepal and the monasteries. You will leave this workshop, having had a great time, with a beautiful object that you can place on your shrine or in another sacred space. 

Included: the registration cost includes all needed supplies.

Not included: Lunch – bring your own bag lunch. And, we encourage you to bring a sturdy dinner plate to help transport your torma home at the end of the day.

Schedule

9:00 a.m.–9:45 p.m. Registration / Check-in

10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Torma making

1:00 p.m–1:45 p.m lunch (bring your own bag lunch)

2:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Torma making