Life with a Lama Healer Lelia O'Connor

Today we are super happy to be talking with Thonla Sonam who was born in Tibet and is Lama Gangchens nephew.
He founded a Tibetan incense business in Nepal and in 1999 he moved to Milan at Lama Gangchen’s request where he and his wife founded a beautiful shop called Tibet Milano selling goods from the Himalayas. 
These days Thonla can be found on Facebook and YouTube where he has a very big following for his divine Tibetan singing bowl meditations. He also offers courses and workshops throughout Europe. Always kind and loving, Thonla exudes wisdom, compassion and inner  joy. 
In our conversation with Thonla Sonam, he fondly reminisces about his childhood in Tibet and the profound influence of his uncle, Lama Gangchen. He shares anecdotes of Lama Gangchen's spiritual teachings and transformative healing experiences. And he reflects on the importance of cultivating inner peace and joy, inspired by Lama Gangchen's wisdom. Through these reflections, Sonam highlights the enduring legacy of Lama Gangchen's compassion and teachings.
"If we have inner peace we will appreciate peace in our communities and in the world." - Thonla Sonam
 
Key Takeaways:
Cultivating Inner Peace: Despite life's challenges, he reflects on the transformative power of maintaining inner tranquility and finding joy in every moment.
Spiritual Guidance and Healing: He highlights Lama Gangchen's unconventional methods and teachings, the Mahasiddha way, which transcended words and provided healing on both spiritual and emotional levels.
Legacy of Compassion:  He shares stories of Lama Gangchen's humility, generosity, and unwavering commitment to spreading compassion, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and uplift others.
 
In the land where prayer flags sway, 
Thonla Sonam began his journey's play, 
Born in Tibet, amidst mountains' grand display, 
A soul of light, destined to find his own highway.
 
Twelve siblings strong, a family's embrace, 
In the cradle of tradition, with love and grace, 
Lama Gangchen's kin, with a sacred space, 
Bound by blood, a lineage to trace.
 
To Nepal's embrace, Thonla found his way, 
With brother Jamyang, under skies of gray, 
In the valleys' whispers, they chose to stay, 
Building dreams anew, with each passing day.
 
From the earth's bounty, with tender care, 
Thonla crafted incense, a healing prayer, 
Infused with mantras, floating in the air, 
Aromatic offerings, love beyond compare.
 
Milan's streets welcomed, at Lama's behest, 
Tibet Milano bloomed, a haven blessed, 
Where treasures from the heights found their nest, 
Echoes of home, in each loving guest.
 
In cyberspace's realm, Thonla's voice soars, 
Facebook and YouTube, where hearts implore, 
His singing bowls' whispers, ancient lore, 
Guiding souls to peace, forevermore.
 
In workshops' embrace, across Europe's land, 
Thonla spreads wisdom, like grains of sand,
A light in the darkness, forever to abide.
With kindness as his compass and love as his guide.



For more information on Thonla’s courses, workshops and streaming: Dharma Sound 
If you're in Milan, you can visit his two shops: Tibet Milano.



Join us again for more inspiring conversations on "Life with a Lama Healer."
 
TUNE into the next episode of Life with a Lama Healer, to hear more truly remarkable conversations about the life and times of Lama Gangchen Rinpoche.
 
SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on our upcoming episodes, “ Life with a Lama Healer” in Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you like to listen. Every 2 weeks we’ll post a new episode and continue these inspiring conversations.
 
SPONSOR an upcoming episode or season. Please support this podcast by making a donation for this volunteer driven podcast. More info:
www.lamahealer.com
ASK US a Question for a future episode or share an experience you had with Lama Gangchen at:
www.lamahealer.com
 
More information about Lama Gang

Today we delve into the inspiring journey of Jeanne Gregory, from London, England. Introduced to Lama Gangchen in 1995, Jeanne's path as a nurse and pain therapist intersected profoundly with Lama's teachings. 
Despite being a single mother of six, she embraced the dharma wholeheartedly, leading to the establishment of a self-healing group to share Lama's profound healing methods. Jeanne's experiences have led her to the noble task of assisting the sick and dying, guiding them towards peace during their transition, embodying the essence of a true Bodhisattva.
 
“Even with all the distress in the world when you turn the news on, I put my hand on my heart and say a mantra, Peace with everything, Everything with Peace, I’m trying to transmit peace wherever I can” - Jeanne Gregory
 
Key Takeaways:
Embracing Self-Healing: Jeanne recounts the calming presence of Lama Gangchen, who advised her on integrating self-healing practices into her hectic life. With simple yet powerful healing mantras, Jeanne found solace and tranquility amid her busy schedule, a testament to the accessibility and efficacy of Lama's teachings.
Compassion in Death: Drawing from her experiences in hospitals, Jeanne shares the importance of providing peaceful transitions for those nearing the end of life. Guided by Lama Gangchen, she learned invaluable techniques to ease the journey of the departing soul, emphasizing the significance of a serene passing for a tranquil rebirth.
The Serendipitous Encounter: Jeanne's journey with Lama Gangchen began in an unexpected manner, as she stumbled upon a postcard featuring Lama's smiling face on the streets of London. This chance encounter became a pivotal moment, symbolizing the profound connection between student and master when the seeker is truly ready to embark on the path of healing and spiritual growth.
 
In London's bustling streets, a tale unfolds,
Of Jeanne Gregory, with a heart of gold.
In the 1990s, she met Lama Gangchen,
Whose teachings sparked a flame within.
 A nurse and pain therapist by trade,
She embraced the Dharma, unafraid.
With six children to raise, a single mom's plight,
Yet she delved into wisdom, seeking the light.
 Creating a self-healing group, she shared,
The profound teachings that she dared,
To integrate into her busy life's flow,
Where Dharma's essence began to glow.
 Through trials and triumphs, she learned to weave,
The threads of compassion, to relieve,
The suffering of those who were ill,
With a touch of kindness, she'd instill.
With words of comfort, she'd softly impart,
Guiding them gently, heart to heart.
Jeanne Gregory, a true Bodhisattva, indeed,
Whose life of service,love, kindness and peace
Are a inspiration for all who seek.
 
Jeanne Gregory's journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, illustrating the transformative power of compassion, healing, and spiritual guidance. Through her work and experiences, she embodies the essence of selflessness and empathy, offering solace and support to those in need during life's most profound moments. Join us in honoring Jeanne's dedication and wisdom as we navigate the path towards healing and inner peace.
 
Join us again for more inspiring conversations on "Life with a Lama Healer."
 
TUNE into the next episode of Life with a Lama Healer, to hear more truly remarkable conversations about the life and times of Lama Gangchen Rinpoche.
SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on our upcoming episodes, “ Life with a Lama Healer” in Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you like to listen. Every 2 weeks we’ll post a new episode and continue these inspiring conversations.
SPONSOR an upcoming episode or season. Please support this podcast by making a donation for this volunteer driven podcast. More info:
www.lamahealer.com
ASK US a Question for a future episode or share an experience you had with Lama Gangchen at:
www.lamahealer.com
 

This week, we are delighted to have Betty Voon on the show, a native of Malaysia. Her journey with Lama Gangchen began in the 1990s at the age of 18. A year later, she sought Lama to be her teacher, initiating a lifelong commitment to studying and collaborating on foundation activities.
Known for her kindness and patience, Betty contributed to translations, assisted sick patients visiting Lama, and played a role in Peace Media, collaborating with founder Sunny Koo on books and films promoting peace. Currently, she actively participates in the Malaysian Medicine Buddha Center in Kuala Lumpur.
“I was thinking if i died right now - I’m very satisfied, I was so at peace with myself. At that time, it was so amazing” - Betty Voon.

Key Takeaways:
Lama Gangchen's Healing Presence: Betty Voon shares transformative moments encountering Lama Gangchen's healing energy and the impactful serenity of his compassionate smile.
Service and Peace Advocacy: Engaging actively in Lama Gangchen's foundation, Betty exemplifies a life of service and contributes to peace advocacy through translations, assisting patients, and collaborating with Peace Media.
Spiritual Awakening and Growth: Betty's story reflects personal growth and spiritual awakening, showcasing the ease of seeking refuge with Lama Gangchen, dreams as a form of communication, and the symbolic significance of water and cream pills in her healing journey.  
Betty Voon, a name adorned with grace,
A student of life, in wisdom's embrace.
From Malaysia's shores, her journey unfurled,
In the presence of Lama, her destiny swirled.
At just eighteen, she met the Lama's gaze,
A bond formed then, in mystical ways.
With humility and devotion, she sought his light,
To walk the path of truth, both day and night.
Yearning for knowledge, she humbly beseeched,
To learn from Lama, her heart reached.
Thus began her odyssey, a lifelong quest,
Guided by love, in service, she's blessed.
Translating tongues from Chinese to English,
Building bridges of understanding, she'd cherish.
In the halls of healing, she lent her hand,
Comforting souls, in a foreign land.
With Peace Media, her spirit soared,
Spreading messages of harmony, adored.
Beside Sunny Koo, she penned tales of peace,
Crafting narratives, where conflicts would ease.
Amidst the bustle of Kuala Lumpur's din,
She finds solace in the Medicine Buddha's kin.
At the Malaysian center, her heart finds its home,
In the sanctuary of healing, where spirits roam.
Betty Voon, a beacon of light so pure,
In every step, her kindness endures.
A testament to love, in its boundless grace,
In her presence, the world finds its sacred space.
 
Join us again for more inspiring conversations on "Life with a Lama Healer."
TUNE into the next episode of Life with a Lama Healer, to hear more truly remarkable conversations about the life and times of Lama Gangchen Rinpoche.
SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on our upcoming episodes, “ Life with a Lama Healer” in Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you like to listen. Every 2 weeks we’ll post a new episode and continue these inspiring conversations.
SPONSOR an upcoming episode or season. Please support this podcast by making a donation for this volunteer driven podcast. More info:
www.lamahealer.com
ASK US a Question for a future episode or share an experience you had with Lama Gangchen at:
www.lamahealer.com
 
Many Thanks to United Peace Voices, Illaria Ceccerelli and Gloria for their beautiful recordings!
EXPLORE more of Lama Gangchen’s teachings, where you can find our books, YouTube streaming channel, CD’s, retreat centers and further resources visit:
www.ngalso.org
www.lamahealer.com
www.gurubuddha.org
 

Today, we're honored to have Monica Benvenuti with us. Born in Brazil, she traveled to Italy in the 1980s, meeting Lama Gangchen and being deeply inspired by his healing energy. She then traveled from Brazil to India to study with Lama and began helping him with his patients. Profoundly moved by Lamas' healing abilities she decided to invite him to Brazil. In Brazil she introduced him to Lama Michel and his parents and other important people.
 
Monica's role became even more significant when she discovered Lama Michel was a Tulku and the reincarnation of Lama Gangchen's guru, and played a crucial role in establishing the first Dharma center in Brazil. Her efforts sowed the seeds for countless Brazilians to benefit from Lama Gangchen's wisdom, making her a vital catalyst in bringing Lama's teachings to the West.
 
“One of Rinpoche’s qualities, in order to teach or transform someone, he used to behave just like them. It's a very deep way of teaching, like a mirror reflection immersed in their world and understanding their strife. This created a bridge where you slowly start to change and begin to appreciate enlightenment” - Monica Benvenuti 

 
Key Takeaways:
Miraculous Healings: Monica recounts profound stories of healing, both mental and physical, attributed to Lama Gangchen's wisdom and Tibetan medicine. These miracles underscore the extraordinary impact of Lamas inner peace practices on well-being.
Lead by Example: Lama Gangchen's teaching style, leading by example, left a lasting impression on Monica. His emphasis on practical guidance and setting a living example serves as a powerful model for her spiritual growth. She traveled the world with Lama Gangchen and witnessed first hand his example of living with altruism and peace.
Trust in Yourself Is Trust for Others: Throughout, she emphasizes the enduring importance of trust in oneself that can lead to finding your spiritual path, meeting a spiritual guide and living one's life in alignment with your values. Trust in oneself, Monica conveys, Trust in oneself is a gift that forever stays.


Monica Benvenuti, a bridge between worlds,
From Brazil to Italy, her story unfurls.
In the '80s, she embarked on a quest,
Encountering Lama Gangchen, feeling blessed.
Inspired by his healing energy so profound,
She traversed continents, wisdom to be found.
From Brazil to India, a journey so divine,
Studying with Lama, a sacred design.
In the tapestry of fate, their paths entwined,
Monica's heart and Lama's teachings aligned.
A catalyst for change, she took a stand,
Inviting Lama to Brazil, a vision so grand.
Introducing him to Lama Michel with grace,
And to others, creating a sacred space.
Her role expanded, significance grew,
Seeds of Dharma planted, a vision true.
Discovering Lama Michel as a Tulku divine,
The reincarnation of Lama Gangchen's shrine.
A crucial role in the West she played,
Dharma's roots in Brazil, firmly laid.
In the dance of destiny, Monica weaves,
A tale of devotion, where the heart believes. 
Her journey with Lama, a sacred art,
A bridge between worlds, and a compassionate heart.

 
Join us again for more inspiring conversations on "Life with a Lama Healer."
 
TUNE into the next episode of Life with a Lama Healer, to hear more truly remarkable conversations about the life and times of Lama Gangchen Rinpoche. 
SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on our upcoming episodes, “ Life with a Lama Healer” in Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you like to listen. Every 2 weeks we’ll post a new episode and continue these inspiring conversations.
SPONSOR an upcoming episode or season. Please support this podcast by making a donation for this volunteer driven podcast. More info:
www.lamahealer.com
ASK US a Question for a future episode or share an experience you had with Lama Gangchen at:
www.lamahealer.com
 
Many Thanks to United Peace Voices, Illaria Ceccerelli and Gloria for their beautiful recordings!

Today we are joined by Ara ​​Tokatyan, a native Californian and daughter of artists, who embodies wisdom and joy, offering profound insights into living a fully vital life in the face of chronic illness. 
Her journey led her to Milan, where she met Lama Gangchen Rinpoche and Lama Michel. In our conversation, Ara shares her experiences with Lama Gangchen Rinpoche, highlighting the powerful impact of his self-healing practices. 
Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2004, Ara's journey towards healing took unexpected turns. Her determination to strengthen her mind through meditation, despite being on heavy medication, reveals her inner strength and resilience. Ara's understanding of karma became a guiding force, leading her to take responsibility for her health.
Lama Gangchen's teachings and practices, such as self-healing, opened her eyes to the potential for miracles and the transformative power of positive thoughts. Her story reflects the harmonious blend of Western and Eastern approaches to learning, emphasizing Lama Gangchen's healing methods and inner peace teachings.
Ara works as a simultaneous translator for Lama Michel and is a dedicated volunteer at the Albagnano Healing Meditation Center. She greatly contributes to the Center's activities, emphasizing the importance of karma in shaping our present and future.
 
Ara - 'When will I be symptom free?, Lama - 'When all of your thoughts are happy thoughts'. 
Key Takeaways:
Power of Positive Thoughts:  Ara's journey showcases the transformative power of maintaining positive thoughts and a commitment to happiness.
Karma and Responsibility: Understanding karma empowered Ara to take responsibility for her health, leading to a shift in her approach to healing.
Self-Healing Practices: Witnessing self-healing practices, Ara experienced profound emotional moments, realizing the immense weight Lama Gangchen carried for everyone.
Miracles and Connections: Lama Gangchen's teachings on keeping your eyes open for miracles and his ability to heal all kinds of sicknesses with people from all walks of life.
Blending Eastern and Western Approaches: Ara's story reflects the integration of Eastern wisdom and Western learning, emphasizing the efficacy of Lama Gangchen's teachings in diverse cultural contexts.



In the tapestry of life, where shadows may dance,
Ara, a beacon of joy, in every circumstance.
From California's embrace to Milan's healing art,
Her journey unfolds, a testament to the heart.
 
In the face of illness, she found Lama's guiding light,
A translator of wisdom, in service shining bright.
Karma's seeds she tended, responsibility embraced,
Ara's story, a melody of healing, beautifully traced.
 
In the dance of languages, she wove a thread,
A symphony of gratitude, where love is spread.
Through illness and triumph, a tale unfolds,
Ara, a soul vibrant, in wisdom's arms she holds.



Join us again for more inspiring conversations on "Life with a Lama Healer."
 
TUNE into the next episode of Life with a Lama Healer, to hear more truly remarkable conversations about the life and times of Lama Gangchen Rinpoche.
SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on our upcoming episodes, “ Life with a Lama Healer” in Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you like to listen. Every 2 weeks we’ll post a new episode and continue these inspiring conversations.
SPONSOR an upcoming episode or season. Please support this podcast by making a donation for this volunteer driven podcast. More info:
www.lamahealer.com
ASK a Question for a future episode or share an experience you had with Lama Gangchen at:
www.lamahealer.com
 
Many Thanks to United Peace Voices, Illaria Ceccerelli and Gloria for their beautiful recordings!
 
EXPLORE more of Lama Gangchen’s teachings, where you can find our books, YouTube streaming channel, CD’s, retreat centers and further resources visit:
 
www.ngalso.org
www.lamahealer.com
 

Today we are happy to introduce you to Leonardo ‘Duccio’ Ceglie. Trained at the Academy of Fine Arts in Rome, Duccio's artistic odyssey took a divine turn in 1984 when he encountered Lama Gangchen Rinpoche at the Lama Tsong Khapa Institute in Pomaia, Italy. Duccio's sacred art, spanning over three decades, adorns Lama's meditation centers worldwide, a testament to the profound fusion of creativity and spirituality.
 
This episode paints a vivid portrait of Duccio's spiritual odyssey, where art, music, humor, and wisdom converge in the luminous landscapes of Tibetan Buddhism. Join us on this enlightening exploration of creativity, devotion, and the transformative power of a guru's guidance.
 
Beyond the canvas, Duccio is celebrated for his infectious humor and musical prowess. His joyful spirit, combined with mantras and laughter, has created a harmonious symphony throughout his life. 
 
In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of art, guided by Lama Gangchen's teachings and unwavering commitment to bring out the best in others. The canvas becomes a spiritual practice, each stroke a profound lesson in discovering the nature of the mind and the path to enlightenment. 



“I will take care of you forever and give you everything you want” - Lama Gangchen

 
Key Takeaways:

The genesis of Duccio's artistic journey, meeting Lama Gangchen in 1984.


Painting sacred Buddhas as a spiritual practice and the profound teachings embedded in each stroke.


Lama Gangchen's guidance and the importance of embracing mistakes and challenges.


The multifaceted role of a guru and Lama Gangchen's unwavering commitment to others.


Rinpoche’s unique approach to spreading teachings to people of diverse backgrounds and beliefs.
 
The simplicity and depth of Lama Gangchen's wisdom, transforming lives with practical and profound advice
 
Duccio's brush dances, a maestro's delight,
From Rome's academy to Tibetan heights.
Met Lama Gangchen, colors took flight,
Thirty years painting, in joy and light.
Through colors and tunes, in laughter's embrace,
In the canvas of life, all troubles we efface,
A musician's touch, a melody so sweet,
Mantras and laughter, a harmonious feat.
Gifts of art, commissioned more,
Painting wisdom, teachings to adore.
Pilgrimages grand, a simple life planned,
Duccio's spirit soars, the yogi is at home wherever he lands.




Join us again for more inspiring conversations on "Life with a Lama Healer."
 
TUNE into the next episode of Life with a Lama Healer, to hear more truly remarkable conversations about the life and times of Lama Gangchen Rinpoche.
 
SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on our upcoming episodes, “ Life with a Lama Healer” in Apple Podcasts or Spotify or wherever you like to listen. Every 2 weeks we’ll post a new episode and continue these inspiring conversations.
 
SPONSOR an upcoming episode or season. Please support this podcast by making a donation for this volunteer driven podcast. More info:
www.lamahealer.com
ASK a Question for a future episode or share an experience you had with Lama Gangchen at:
www.lamahealer.com
 
Many Thanks to United Peace Voices, Illaria Ceccerelli and Gloria for their beautiful recordings!
 
EXPLORE more of Lama Gangchen’s teachings, where you can find our books, YouTube streaming channel, CD’s, retreat centers and further resources visit:
 
www.ngalso.org
www.lamahealer.com
www.gurubuddha.org