Lungta "wind horse" Meditation Practices

In Tibetan spirituality, Lungta (or "wind horse") is a concept representing good fortune, positive energy, and life force. It is a metaphysical concept that can be strengthened by practices like hanging prayer flags, which are often called lungta. The flags act as a vehicle to carry prayers and positive energy on the wind to benefit all beings, symbolizing the speed and power of the wind horse.

Key aspects of Lungta

Metaphysical concept:

Lungta is seen as an inner, energetic force that can increase or weaken due to circumstances. A person with a strong lungta is one who seems to succeed effortlessly.

The "wind horse":

The term literally translates to "wind horse" (𝐿𝑢𝑛𝑔𝑡𝑎= air/wind + horse). The horse is a symbol of speed and is thought to carry the prayers and good fortune to deities. In Meditation practice, bring awareness on you with it's meaning, and it represents a quality of our life force energy. It helps to bring you on the present, connect to the earth and sky. This practice helps to open your heart, where you could find and feel your genuineness, and further helps to radiate your energy outward.

Prayer flags:

The most common expression of lungta is seen in the brightly colored prayer flags that are hung on mountain passes, rooftops, and other significant locations.

Symbolism on prayer flags:

The flags often feature a central image of the wind horse, sometimes bearing the "three flaming jewels" (the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha).

The horse is surrounded by mantras and symbols, including the "four dignities" (a snow lion, garuda, tiger, and dragon).

The five colors of the flags represent the five elements: blue (sky), white (air), red (fire), green (water), and yellow (earth).

Spiritual function:

When the wind blows through the flags, it's believed to spread the prayers and blessings of goodwill, compassion, and harmony across the land. The fading and fraying of the flags is seen as a natural part of this process, symbolizing the impermanence of life.

Strengthening lungta:

Besides prayer flags, other methods to raise one's lungta include going to a high, open place to toss lungta papers into the air, or incorporating the colors associated with one's personal element into their life.

In meditation and spirituality, lungta (Tibetan for "wind horse") represents a person's inner energy, vitality, and good fortune. It is a spiritual force that can be cultivated and harnessed to overcome obstacles and achieve positive outcomes. The term is also the name for the practices and prayers used to strengthen and increase this inner energy.

Lungta as inner energy and life force

At its deepest, or "most secret," level, the wind horse is a metaphor for the mind riding on the body's subtle energy or vital breath (prana).

The Mind's Clarity: A strong lungta indicates that this subtle energy is flowing smoothly, which helps the mind stay clear, balanced, and harmonious.

Overcoming Obstacles: A flourishing lungta transforms negative tendencies like the "five poisons" (attachment, aversion, ignorance, pride, and jealousy) into positive manifestations of wisdom.

A Universal Challenge: Tibetan Buddhist masters have observed that in modern times, many people suffer from a weak lungta, resulting in a persistent lack of energy, inspiration, and vitality.