The Wellbeing Programme is a philanthropic initiative by Friends of Tibet to support the cause of Tibet and to create awareness about the issue of Tibet amongst people all over the world. This initiative researched, designed and implemented by Friends of Tibet aims at the restoration, propagation and promotion of the endangered traditions and practices of Tibet.
68th Wellbeing Medical Camp Report (May 2019)
When I was invited to help provide English-Malayalam translations during the 68th Wellbeing Tibetan Medical Camp by Victoria Sheldon, Friends of Tibet Campaigner, I immediately looked into the history of Tibetan medicine, known Sowa Rigpa. At first, I was reluctant to consider trying this kind of herbal medicine. For years, I had been running from system to system in search of cure for some physical health concerns. Including Ayurveda, Siddha, Naturopathy and Biomedicine, my experiments in health often gave me temporary relief, but never complete cure. Victoria had assured me, however, that Tibetan medicine is unique: it is patient-centered, embedded in a long-history, largely free of side effects, and practitioners are motivated by a love for compassionate service as characteristic of the Tibetan way of life.
On the first day of the camp on May 8, 2019, I was impressed with how well-organised and structured the camp was. The Men-Tsee-Khang staff and Friends of Tibet Volunteers serve in an exemplary manner. The Campaigners thoughtfully take care of every detail related to the patient experience. New patients not only complete an intake form, campaigners also ensure they are well-educated prior to consultation. During a Wellbeing Briefing Session, Campaigners provide information on Tibet's history, along with practical details on the administering of Tibetan herbal medicines. From there, patients then receive an attentive and engaging consultation with Dr Dorjee Rapten Neshar, CMO, Tibetan Medical and Astrological Institute of HH the Dalai Lama, Bangalore Branch.
I had the opportunity to help provide translations for Dr Dorjee's consultations. It was a golden chance to associate with the spirit of the magnificent Tibetan attitude and way of being. In this era of costly diagnostic methods, Dr Dorjee's methods of pulse analysis diagnostics, individual oriented interrogation, and the providing of advice on ones dietary and life style factors are a wonder to witness. I also had the delight of directly experiencing a consultation from him. For years, I have struggled to even receive a clear diagnosis for my health concerns. Dr Dorjee, however, explained the processes happening in my body in a way that immediately made sense.
Since the camp, I have been diligently taking Dr Dorjee's prescribed medicines. After a week of adherence to this stream, I feel a sense of Wellbeing as did never before. I highly recommend it. The patients who throng to the camp expressed optimism, and many regained not only their health after undergoing Dr Dorjee's treatment regimen — several people explained to me how they now regularly engage in Tibetan chanting and Buddhist meditation and prayer. I certainly hope to volunteer again and contribute to spreading the Tibetan message of peace, Wellbeing, and the enhancement of humanity.
May the practice of Dharma lead us all to liberation!
Friends of Tibet Foundation for the Wellbeing, PO Box 16674, Mumbai 400050, India.
Being At the Wellbeing Medical Camp
Report: Mary Thomas, Wellbeing Participant from Kannur, Kerala
Editing, Photography: Victoria Sheldon, Campaigner, Friends of Tibet
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Alappuzha, Kerala: have always had an interest in and appreciation for Tibetan culture and way of living. Prior to learning about Tibetan medicine, I regularly listened to the discourses of His Holiness, the XIV Dalai Lama. His words of peace and wisdom have resonated with not only me, but with millions of people across the globe. A particular quote of his that inspires me is, "The planet does not need more successful people. The planet desperately needs more peacemakers, healers, restorers, storytellers, and lovers of all kinds." In the contemporary world situation, replete with health crises, His Holiness' words are especially true: healers and restorers are especially needed. With its time-tested approach, Tibetan medicine is a perfect avenue for cultivating such healing and compassion.
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Email: wellbeing@friendsoftibet.org Web: www.friendsoftibet.org/wellbeing/
