The Preliminary Practices (Ngondro) is the foundation for further meditation within the Karma Kagyu School. The Preliminary Practices start with Prostrations, which in particular purifies the energy channels of the body. Then follows Diamond Mind meditation, which purifies speech and mind.

The third practice is Mandala Gifts, which accumulates wisdom and good impressions in mind. Finally there is Guru Yoga, which opens up our minds to enlightenment itself with devotion as the main driving force.

On completion of the Ngondro you are ready to work more profoundly towards a direct experience of the nature of mind itself.

Before you start the Ngondro it is recommended that you perform the short refuge meditation, which works as an introduction and preparation to the four Preliminary Practices.