Chöd means “to cut” or to “sever.” It’s a Tibetan spiritual practice that severs our ego-clinging, the root of our inner obstacles and mental tendencies that give rise to suffering. By combining the philosophy of the Prajñāpāramitā (Perfection of Wisdom) with the transformative method of Vajrayana, Chöd transforms fear and hardship into a path to enlightenment.

Although well known for its dynamic meditation practice involving mantra, visualization, instruments, and rituals, Chöd’s essence lies in severing the ego and the attachments that cause suffering. This includes cutting our attachment to the body, the root of the mind, mental fabrications, hopes and fears, and the four maras — that which obstructs us. Instead of fighting obstacles and obstructions, Chöd practitioners regard adversity as a friend and intentionally seek out those places, physical and mental, that scare them to realize the mind’s fundamental nature.

To practice Chöd requires empowerment, a ritual initiation followed by training. Traditionally, when the student is ready, Chöd is then practiced in 108 charnel grounds.