# Alejandro Chaoul

> Tibetan Yoga & Bon Buddhism


## Posts

- [A Journey to Nepal: Practice, Pilgrimage, and Connection](https://alechaoul.com/a-journey-to-nepal-practice-pilgrimage-and-connection/): Dear Friends, I would like to warmly invite you to join me for a very special journey to Nepal from August 30 to September 10, 2026. This retreat will take us through Kathmandu, Pokhara, Jomsom, and Lubra, offering a unique opportunity to practice together while visiting sacred places connected to the Bön and Tibetan yogic traditions. And going back to the retreat place where my dear Teacher, Yongdzin Tenzin Namdak Rinpoche, stayed in Tukdam for 8 days, after passing away at 100 years old. For me, returning to Nepal is always deeply meaningful. It is a place where the teachings […]
- [The Dalai Lama’s Grammy and Empathetic Joy](https://alechaoul.com/the-dalai-lamas-grammy-and-empathetic-joy/): Empathetic Joy is one of the Four Immeasurables, the capacity to feel genuine happiness for the well-being and success of others. Or more simply, rejoicing in the goodness of others. Last week at Esalen, while teaching on these qualities with my dear friend Eve Ekman, I was reminded just how alive and powerful this practice can be. While we were there, we heard the beautiful news that His Holiness the Dalai Lama received a Grammy Award for his audiobook Meditations: The Reflections of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. I felt a spontaneous surge of happiness, a warmth that surprised me in its intensity. […]
- [Into the Fire Horse Year](https://alechaoul.com/into-the-fire-horse-year/): Dear Friends,        I am feeling very grateful and excited as this year begins, with January between Costa Rica and Esalen Institute. There is a sense of movement, creativity, and momentum that feels supportive as new teachings, gatherings, and journeys unfold, feeling the energy of the Year of the Fire Horse soon to begin. In February, I will be offering programs and gatherings in Houston, and later in the year, returning to some of my favorite places such as Ligmincha International, Menla, and Omega Institute. These spaces and communities continue to feel like homes for practice, learning, and connection. One journey […]
- [Closing the Year with a Spirit of Pura Vida](https://alechaoul.com/closing-the-year-with-a-spirit-of-pura-vida-2/): Dear Friends, Pura Vida “Pura Vida” is one of Costa Rica’s most beloved expressions. More than a phrase, it is a way of seeing life with ease, gratitude, presence, and appreciation for what is simple and essential. It is a greeting, a farewell, and a way of saying everything is okay. It carries joy, kindness, resilience, and connection to life just as it is. As I finish this year here in Costa Rica, I feel how this spirit of Pura Vida has woven itself through my journeys, teachings, challenges, and blessings of 2025. The year began in Curitiba, Brazil, at […]
- [Gems of Reconnection](https://alechaoul.com/gems-of-reconnection/): Dear Friends, This year has been a full and beautiful one. I traveled and taught in many places, and what has stayed with me the most are the moments of connection, especially unexpected reconnection. These re-encounters felt like gems, each one shining with its own kind of warmth. In Poland, I was able to spend time with my godson, Lucas, and meet his wife and daughter. Being together after so many years reminded me how meaningful it is to witness someone’s life unfold, even if most of it has happened far from my everyday world. It was also wonderful that […]
- [Meditating on Impermanence: Death as a Doorway to Living More Fully](https://alechaoul.com/meditating-on-impermanence-death-as-a-doorway-to-living-more-fully/): Dear Friends, As we enter a time when many cultures remember their ancestors and celebrate the Day of the Dead, I’ve been reflecting on how powerful it is to pause and contemplate on impermanence. These celebrations are not only about those who left before us, but also a reminder that one day we too will be that skeleton, hopefully dancing, and that how we live now matters deeply. A couple of weeks ago, at Ligmincha International’s Fall Retreat at Serenity Ridge, guided by my teacher Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche, we explored the theme Being Present at the Moment of Death. It […]
- [A good heart is the best religion](https://alechaoul.com/a-good-heart-is-the-best-religion/): Back in 1989, my spiritual journey took a big leap, outwards and inwards. I traveled to India and Nepal, meeting many teachers and amazing people of different religions. While I was in Kashmir, I was living in the beautiful area of Pampore, where saffron grows. Biking to the big city of Srinagar, I saw in the English newspaper that His Holiness the Dalai Lama had been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Even though I knew very little of him, and got to see his photos and the reverence given to him by the monks in Ladakh, I was so happy, […]
- [Carrying Respect and Compassion Forward](https://alechaoul.com/carrying-respect-and-compassion-forward/): Dear Friends,        A few weeks ago, in South Africa, I had the moving experience of visiting the Apartheid Museum and the home of Nelson Mandela. Throughout my visit, the words respect and compassion echoed deeply. One image especially struck me: a photograph of Rev. Desmond Tutu and His Holiness the Dalai Lama. It brought me back to a moment years ago when His Holiness spoke at Rice University in Houston, TX. My teacher, Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche, created two beautiful calligraphies for that occasion, which were used to accompany His Holiness’ teachings. Respect and compassion for oneself and for others. Respect for the […]
- [A Return to Nepal, A Teacher’s Last Gift](https://alechaoul.com/a-return-to-nepal-a-teachers-last-gift/): Dear Friends,               It was such a heartwarming and profound experience to return to Kathmandu, this time to say goodbye to the body of my very dear one hundred-year-old Teacher, Lopon Tenzin Namdak, also known as Yongdzin Rinpoche, who had been my guide and inspiration for 34 years. He was an extraordinary Teacher and an incredible human being whose presence touched countless lives. The community of monks, practitioners, and friends gathered around him was a testament to the deep imprint he left on all of us. What can I say about such a remarkable […]
- [Some heart-notes about my dear Great Master](https://alechaoul.com/some-heart-notes-about-my-dear-great-master/):          For Yongdzin Tenzin Namdak Rinpoche (aka, Lopon)’s 100th birthday, I wrote an article for his festschrift celebratory publication titled “A Truly Magical Encounter.” In it, I shared the story of meeting Lopon in 1991, visiting Triten Norbutse Monastery in Nepal a couple of years later at his invitation, and learning—almost by chance or coincidence—the Tibetan Yoga known as Trul khor, translated as “Magical Movements.” This particular yoga comes from the special Dzogchen compendium, the Aural Transmission of Zhang Zhung, taught through a profound commentary by the great scholar and practitioner Shardza Tashi Gyaltsen, who attained rainbow […]
- [Wisdom Dharma Chat with Daniel Aitken](https://alechaoul.com/wisdom-dharma-chat-with-daniel-aitken/): And get a discount for the new course: https://wisdomexperience.org/tibetan-yoga-2/
- [Studio talk with Mary Taylor and Richard Freeman](https://alechaoul.com/studio-talk-with-mary-taylor-and-richard-freeman/): Alejandro Chaoul, Mary Taylor, and Richard Freeman in lively conversation discussing Alejandro’s new book, “Tibetan Yoga, Magical Movements of Body Breath and Mind” as well as his longtime work with Sound Healing.
- [Opening to Deep Stillness - Guided Meditation](https://alechaoul.com/opening-to-deep-stillness-guided-meditation/): It can be a challenge to quiet the mind. Join Alejandro Chaoul for this grounding meditation designed to help you release distractions as they appear (without judgment), and experience deep stillness. Get better sleep, decrease stress, and relieve anxiety with over 200 ad-free meditations. Listen to the podcast…
- [Want to Live Your Best Life? Start By Asking Why, and Then Discover How](https://alechaoul.com/want-to-live-your-best-life-start-by-asking-why-and-then-discover-how/): Most of us strive to live our best lives, but what does that really mean? What is it you want for your health? Why is it so difficult for us to strike a balance between our mind, body, spirit, and community? Often, when we try to feed one vital aspect of our well-being, the others are neglected. And if we try to address all at once, we become overwhelmed. It’s understandable that we all struggle to maintain a well-balanced life, but there are things we can do to make it just a little easier. It may simply begin by looking […]
- [Introducing the new Mind Body Spirit Institute of the Jung Center](https://alechaoul.com/introducing-the-new-mind-body-spirit-institute-of-the-jung-center/): The Jung Center opens The Mind, Body, Spirit Institute …Chaoul, along with Sean Fizpatrick, the executive director of the Jung Center, knew that the practices Chaoul was teaching at MD Anderson would also have a place in the community, both for individuals and other companies. The Jung Center already focuses on self-care programs with topics such as psychology and life, so the institute would be a good fit. “It is exciting for us to be able to share the news of The Mind, Body, Spirit Institute,” Fitzpatrick said in a press release. “We want people to understand they have real […]
- [Vicarious Trauma: Healing from Within](https://alechaoul.com/vicarious-trauma-healing-from-within/): MasterWord Services, a leading provider of language support solutions, is proud to sponsor “Vicarious Trauma: Healing from Within,” their third annual Wellness Connection Workshop for interpreters and anyone who experiences vicarious trauma in the course of their work. This is a special presentation by Dr. Alejandro Chaoul, Associate Professor and Director of Education at the University of Texas MD Anderson’s Friends of Integrated Medicine Program as well as a regular presenter at the Rothko Chapel, and David Leslie, Executive Director of the Rothko Chapel. This presentation introduces participants to techniques, tools and resources—including the healing space of the Rothko Chapel—to […]
- [Alejandro Chaoul - MD Anderson Pro Discusses Meditation for Cancer Patients and Caregivers](https://alechaoul.com/alejandro-chaoul-md-anderson-pro-discusses-meditation-for-cancer-patients-and-caregivers/): On Untangle podcast, Alejandro Chaoul is Director of the Integrative Medicine Program at MD Anderson Cancer Center. He was the first to create their Connect with the Heart meditation program for cancer patients, has studied in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition and deeply believes in the healing power of the breath and sound. He conducts research on these mind-body techniques. https://soundcloud.com/untangle/alejandro-chaoul-md-anderson-pro
- [A Cancer Survivor's Workshop Q&A Feature](https://alechaoul.com/a-cancer-survivors-workshop-qa-feature/): “Integrative medicine” promotes physical, mental and spiritual health by combining conventional medical treatments with nutritional guidance and traditional approaches, such as yoga, meditation, and acupuncture. As Roswell Park expands its integrative medicine programs, we are excited to host Alejandro Chaoul, PhD, as the keynote speaker at “Chapter 2: A Cancer Survivor’s Workshop,” to be held Friday, June 16, through Saturday, June 17, at Roswell Park. Chaoul was a pioneer in introducing integrative medicine at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. In the Q&A below, Dr. Chaoul shares how he got his start in mind-body practices and how integrative […]
- [Historic First International Chöd-Zhije Conference](https://alechaoul.com/historic-first-international-chod-zhije-conference/): Alejandro will be attending First International Chöd-Zhije Conference at Tara Mandala during July 12-16, 2017. This Historic First International Chöd-Zhije Conference will draw together leading scholars and practitioners researching and teaching this unique lineage in its various manifestations. Keynotes, panel discussions, and small group sessions will be held. They will explore the teachings of 11th century Tibetan yogini Machig Labdrön and her teacher, the renowned Indian yogi Padampa Sangye, the developments of the lineage over the last millennium, the role of women, as well as the application of these teachings to our modern world. Dharma teachings and performances of Chöd songs and […]
- [Upon reflection, it's hard to set your mind free](https://alechaoul.com/upon-reflection-its-hard-to-set-your-mind-free/): From Houston Chronicle Article by Columnist Lisa Falkenberg, June 2015, in Houston TX. “I have a little advice: Sit down and be quiet. No, I’m not channeling my inner Steve Bannon here. Or trying to quash dissent. But before we can take on the world or the White House or what have you, we have to confront what’s swirling within. You know, the grocery list of responsibilities. The destructive voice of self-doubt. The ruminations stemming from insecurity or post-traumatic stress. In the past few weeks, I’ve had several people talk to me about the importance of meditation in their lives. […]
- [Guided Meditation atMD Anderson Cancer Center](https://alechaoul.com/guided-meditation-atmd-anderson-cancer-center/): Dr. Chaoul has extensive experience in the area of mind-body practices, both academically and in clinical practice. Since 1999, he has taught in the Medical Center, particularly at MD Anderson Cancer Center, conducting classes with cancer patients and their families as well as teaching at the Rothko Chapel, the Jung Center, and the Esalen Institute. Dr. Chaoul is the author/co-author of various articles and book chapters, focusing on the role of mind-body practices, as well as Tibetan meditation. Additionally, his research and publications focus on mind-body practices in integrative care, examining how these practices can reduce chronic stress, anxiety and […]
- [Guided Sound Meditation](https://alechaoul.com/guided-sound-meditation/): Dr. Alejandro Chaoul leads us through a guided sound meditation. Brought to you by MasterWord Services’ Wellness Connection and Friends of Integrative Medicine.
- [Tibetan Yoga at Rice Art Gallery](https://alechaoul.com/tibetan-yoga-at-rice-art-gallery/): In conjunction with Gunilla Klingberg’s installation “Wheel of Everyday Life” at Rice University Art Gallery, Alejandro Chaoul led gallery visitors through a session of Tibetan Yoga. Participants learned about the concept of the body as a mandala with the heart as center. Alejandro Chaoul received his Ph.D from Rice University in religious studies with an emphasis in Indo-Tibetan Buddhism. He is an assistant professor at MD Anderson Cancer Center where he conducts research using mind-body techniques with cancer patients, and holds group and individual meditation classes at the Integrative Medicine Center. He is also an associate faculty member at The […]
- ["Keys To Inner Peace" on LIVING SMART WITH PATRICIA GRAS](https://alechaoul.com/keys-to-inner-peace-on-living-smart-with-patricia-gras/): An assistant professor at the University of Texas-MD Anderson Cancer Center and at the UT Medical School, Alejandro Chaoul teaches courses in spirituality and health in their Integrative Medicine program. His Ph.D. Tibetan religions have led him to study under great Buddhist masters, including the Dalai Lama. His book, Chöd Practice in the Bon Tradition deals with these customs. His work on mind-body practice as an integrative cancer care include Tibetan yoga and meditation. Today, he’ll share how he has helped many reach a new level of inner peace and health. www.houstonpbs.org
- [Meditation of the Mind](https://alechaoul.com/meditation-of-the-mind/): “Please silence your phones, or as I like to say, please put them in meditation mode” is how Dr. Alejandro Chaoul began his presentation on February 4. This sentiment put the rapt—and packed—crowd at ease, as Dr. Chaoul went on to discuss his work at MD Anderson and elsewhere. Known in Houston and beyond as a strong proponent for mind-body healing, his work celebrates meditation as a vehicle for that healing. Over the course of the evening, Dr. Chaoul enlightened about the inherent benefits of being present, focusing on your breathing, and stress relief. To complement the discussion, guests were […]

## Pages

- [Calendar test](https://alechaoul.com/calendar-test/)
- [New Home Draft](https://alechaoul.com/): Healing ThroughAncient Wisdom Transformative practices for modern living Welcome. I’m Dr. Alejandro Chaoul, and I’m grateful you’re here. Through Tibetan Yoga, meditation, and the integration of body, breath, and mind, I share practices that support healing, awareness, and inner connection — grounded in decades of study and personal experience. Join Me on a Trip Learn About Tibetan Yoga My Journey Since early childhood I had what I called “existential attacks,” prompting me to search into why are we here? The book Siddhartha by Herman Hesse, directed me to start meditating regularly. Years later I embarked on my first trip to […]
- [New Retreats Page](https://alechaoul.com/travel-retreats-2/): TIBETAN YOGA WELLBEING TRIPS Step Away. Go Deeper. Come Home. Retreats are a time to reconnect with your practice, your breath, and the quiet wisdom within. Whether we’re gathering in the mountains, by the ocean, or under the desert sky, I offer these spaces as opportunities to pause, learn, and grow together. Join me around the world as we explore the ancient practices of Tibetan Yoga, meditation, and well-being in supportive, inspiring environments. Retreat in Nepal: Kathmandu & Lubrak August 30 – September 10, 2026 I’m very happy to invite you to join me for a deeply meaningful journey to […]
- [Travel Retreats](https://alechaoul.com/travel-retreats/): Tibetan YOga wellbeing retreat November 04-13, 2025 Experience the Magic of Tibetan Yoga in the Heart of Morocco Embark on an unforgettable journey to Morocco, where the desert meets the profound practices of Tibetan Yoga. Upcoming programs We are excited to announce the next TYW retreat in Morocco 10 days of transformative relaxation, Tibetan yoga and meditation combining the serenity of practice with the rich cultural tapestry of Morocco. Nov 4-13, 2025  From the stunning streets of the red city Marrakech to the majestic desert dunes of Mhamid and lush Agdz Oasis, each day promises a blend of relaxation, exploration […]
- [Newsletter](https://alechaoul.com/newsletter/): newsletter Get updates on upcoming courses, books, and special offers by signing up for our monthly newsletter. 
- [MC test](https://alechaoul.com/mc-test/): MC test
- [Courses & Books](https://alechaoul.com/courses-books/): courses & books Discover the magic of ancient Bon Buddhist Tibetan yoga practices for spiritual growth, health, and well-being through Ale’s courses and books Books Tibetan Yoga: Magical Movements of Body, Breath, and Mind Learn More | Now translated into Italian “While yoga has become a common practice for health and well-being,the ancient tools of Tibetan yoga remained secret for centuries. Translated as “magical movements,” Tibetan yoga can improve physical strength and support positive emotional and mental health, healing the body-energy-mind system with a full sense of awareness and harmony. “This book focuses on the five principal breath-energies of Tibetan medicine and yoga and […]
- [Books](https://alechaoul.com/books/): Courses & books Discover the magic of ancient Bon Buddhist Tibetan yoga practices for spiritual growth, health, and well-being through Ale’s books Tibetan Yoga: Magical Movements of Body, Breath, and Mind [ut_button color=”theme-btn” target=”_blank” link=”https://wisdomexperience.org/product/tibetan-yoga-book/” size=”medium” title=”Tibetan Yoga book” ]get the book[/ut_button]  From the publisher’s description: “Discover ancient Tibetan yogic practices that integrate body, breath, and mind on the journey to personal cultivation and enlightenment. “Tibetan Yoga offers accessible instructions for performing the ancient yogic techniques of Tibet’s Bön religion. This is Tibetan yoga, or trul khor, a deeply authentic yogic practice. “Drawing on thirty years of training with Bön’s most senior masters […]
- [About Ale](https://alechaoul.com/home/about-ale/): Founding Director – Jung Center’s Mind Body Spirit Institute Adjunct Faculty – Integrative Medicine Program Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation & Integrative Medicine MD Anderson Cancer Center Adjunct Faculty – McGovern Center for Humanities and Ethics McGovern Medical School, UT Health Instructor – Rice University Glasscock School of Continuing Studies, aster of Liberal Studies program Instructor – University of Maryland, Baltimore, Masters in Integrative Medicine Dr. Chaoul is the Huffington Foundation Endowed Director of the Mind Body Spirit Institute at the Jung Center of Houston, bringing a new approach for helping healthcare professionals flourish by reducing stress and burnout, and improving […]
- [Books & courses](https://alechaoul.com/books-courses/): Discover the magic of ancient Bon Buddhist Tibetan yoga practices for spiritual growth, health, and well-being through Ale’s books and video teachings.   Tibetan Yoga: Magical Movements of Body, Breath, and Mind [ut_button color=”theme-btn” target=”_blank” link=”https://wisdomexperience.org/product/tibetan-yoga-book/” size=”medium” title=”Tibetan Yoga book” ]get the book[/ut_button]  From the publisher’s description: “Discover ancient Tibetan yogic practices that integrate body, breath, and mind on the journey to personal cultivation and enlightenment. “Tibetan Yoga offers accessible instructions for performing the ancient yogic techniques of Tibet’s Bön religion. This is Tibetan yoga, or trul khor, a deeply authentic yogic practice. “Drawing on thirty years of training with Bön’s most senior […]
- [Calendar](https://alechaoul.com/calendar/): calendar Upcoming events with Alejandro – to register for any of these teachings, please contact the coordinator indicated. [add_eventon tiles=”yes” tile_count=”4″ tile_bg=”1″]
- [Latest News](https://alechaoul.com/latest-news/)
- [Events old](https://alechaoul.com/events-old/): [ut_tabgroup width=”half” last=”false”] [ut_tab title=”Schedule by Date” id=”t1″] August 2016 August 21- 24 Tibetan Bon Yoga II – Tsa Lung & Trul Khor Chamma Ling, Ligmincha Poland For more information: info@bongaruda.pl More info … August 27th | 12:30pm – 3:00pm YOGA CAN TURN CANCER UPSIDE DOWN YogaOne Heights Houston, TX More info… September 2016 Mondays: Sept. 19, 26| 7-830 pm Houston, TX The Art and Science of Presence in an Era of Distraction. Together with psychologist, Michael Winters. Theory and practice. More info… Fridays: Sept 23, 30 | 5-7 pm Tibetan Meditation: Opening the Doors to our Inner Home. Geshe Denma will […]
- [Free online teachings](https://alechaoul.com/online-teachings/)
- [Biography](https://alechaoul.com/bio/): About Ale Chaoul is a scholar, researcher, author, teacher, and educator Tibetan Yoga teacher – Ligmincha InternationalAdjunct Professor- MD Anderson Cancer Center- Integrative Medicine ProgramInstructor – Rice University Graduate Liberal Studies programAdjunct Faculty – McGovern Center for Humanities and Ethics – UT Medical School HoustonSenior Teacher – The 3 DoorsFounding Director – The Jung Center’s Mind Body Spirit Institute Alejandro “Ale” Chaoul is a PhD is a scholar, researcher, author, teacher, and educator, with a PhD from Rice University focusing on Tibetan mind-body practices and applications in contemporary health environments. For over twenty years, Ale has researched and taught mind-body techniques […]
- [Contact](https://alechaoul.com/contact/): Contact Reach out to Alejandro by filling out the contact form, or connect with Social Media. Facebook Instagram Youtube Twitter Linkedin
- [Home](https://alechaoul.com/home/): Dr. Ale ChaoulTIBETAN YOGA & MEDITATION TEACHER AND SCHOLAR Courses & BooksYoga for MeditatorsAn Online Course with Dr. Ale Chaoul, Richard Freeman, & Mary TaylorLearn moreTibetan Yoga Wellbeing RetreatExperience the Magic of Tibetan Yoga in Morocco Learn more TIBETAN YOGA & MEDITATION TEACHER AND SCHOLAR Dr. Ale Chaoul Meditation is the Medicine of the Mind ~ Applications for Health and Education Courses & Books Free Online Teachings Discover the magic of ancient Bon Buddhist Tibetan yoga practices for spiritual growth, health, and well-being through Ale’s courses and books Events Upcoming events with Alejandro – to register for any of these […]


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