May 15, 2026
This Very Moment
Episode 8: Dream Yoga to Sleep Science
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Show Notes
In this episode of This Very Moment, we sit down with Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche, a revered master of the Bön tradition of Tibet.
Rinpoche traces the distinctive qualities of Bön, from Dzogchen to astrology, cosmology, and elemental practices. Though often misunderstood and overshadowed, Bön’s core teachings share a common ground with Buddhist traditions, particularly the Nyingma tradition with Dzogchen as its core component.
Rinpoche describes his unique upbringing, as he was raised by a Gelug father and a Bön mother, and how he was educated in a Christian boarding school. Later, he trained in a Bön monastery under his primary teacher, Yongdzin Lopon Tenzin Namdak.
The highlight of the conversation is his exploration of the Tibetan Yogas of Dream and Sleep. He introduces his newest concept of “Free Identity Zones,” explaining how sleep gives us the opportunity for true freedom and healing. During deep sleep, the body is temporarily free of the mind, allowing for deep restorative rest. Likewise, during REM cycles, the mind has a chance to be temporarily free of the body, allowing for cognitive growth and emotional healing. Both of these moments of Free Identity are essential for healing physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Beyond the meditation cushion, Rinpoche shares his unexpected passions for longevity science, tracking health biomarkers, and breaking out of traditional boxes to embrace modern knowledge.
Finally, Rinpoche reflects on his teachers, Yongdzin Lopon Tenzin Namdak and Lopon Sangye Tenzin, and the profound influence they had on him. After nearly 40 years of teaching in the West, Rinpoche remains an inspirational voice in the Bön Buddhist community, specifically Ligmincha International, where he serves as the founder and director.
In addition to his ongoing teaching and non-profit work, Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche will be teaching a special course on Tibetan Dream Yoga this summer. Click here to learn more.
About the Interviewee
Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche is a teacher in the Bön tradition of Tibet and is the founder and director of the Ligmincha International. He was born in Amritsar, India, in 1961 after his parents journeyed from Tibet in 1959. He began his formal studies as a monk at Menri Monastery under the guidance of his root teachers Yongdzin Tenzin Namdak Rinpoche and Lopon Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche. At age 11, he was recognized as a reincarnation of Khyung Tul Rinpoche. As a respected and beloved teacher, Rinpoche has students in over 25 countries, teaches around the world, and reaches thousands of students through his online courses and books.
Books and Courses by the Author
Other Books and Music Mentioned by the Author
- Lifespan by David Sinclair
- Bryan Johnson (Blueprint)