Gelongma Palmo

Gelongma Palmo (Skt. Bhishuni Lakshmi or Bhikshuni Shrimati), introduced the Nyungnay practice, which is a special fasting practice of purification and merit accumulation based on Avalokiteshvara, the Buddha of Great Compassion. She was a princess of an ancient Indian kingdom. Through devoted and extensive practice of One-Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara for twelve years, Gelongma Palmo overcame severe illness of leprocy and attained enlightenment. Thereafter, she passed the methods and blessings of this practice known as Nyungnay down through a lineage of great practitioners that continues to this day.

This intensive practice involves maintaining the eight Mahayana precepts (not to kill, not to steal, not to commit sexual misconduct, not to lie, not to take intoxicants, not to take high or luxurious seats, not to sing, dance or wear ornaments and not to eat after midday) on the first day, and taking additional vows of not eating, drinking or talking for twenty-four hours on the second day. The meditation and practice sessions include praises, prostrations and mantra recitation.