A fruitful way to begin is to ground oneself in the broad foundations of Buddhism before trying to enter the more esoteric aspects of the Nyingma tradition. This means studying core teachings such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, karma, rebirth, and the meaning of taking refuge in Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. Alongside this, reflection on bodhicitta—the wish to awaken for the benefit of all beings—helps to orient the heart toward the bodhisattva path that underlies Nyingma practice. Simple daily meditation, especially calm-abiding with the breath and basic loving-kindness or compassion practices, stabilizes the mind and makes later Vajrayāna instructions more meaningful. Ethical discipline, such as aspiring to live by the lay precepts and cultivating non-harm, honesty, and contentment, forms the indispensable ground for everything that follows.

From that base, it is helpful to approach Nyingma through study and contemplation of its own teachings and history. Introductory works that explain general Buddhist principles from a Nyingma perspective, as well as classic manuals such as Patrul Rinpoche’s “Words of My Perfect Teacher,” can be read slowly and reflectively. Such study can be supported by learning about the Nyingma presentation of vehicles, and by becoming familiar with central figures like Padmasambhava and great masters of the tradition. Reading general, non-technical introductions to Nyingma’s distinctive teachings, including Dzogchen, can inspire faith and curiosity, while remembering that these are not practices to be self-applied without guidance. Regular, modest study—just a few pages at a time, followed by quiet reflection—allows the teachings to sink in gradually rather than becoming an intellectual collection.

Because Nyingma is a living lineage, connecting with authentic teachers and communities is essential. Visiting established Nyingma monasteries or centers, attending beginner-friendly teachings, and joining study or meditation groups provide both instruction and the support of a sangha. Over time, observing teachers carefully—their conduct, humility, and consistency with the Dharma—helps a student discern whom to trust for deeper guidance. When there is sufficient confidence, one may formally take refuge and, under proper instruction, begin to learn about preliminary practices such as ngöndro and simple forms of guru yoga, often centered on Padmasambhava. Empowerments and transmissions for tantric or Dzogchen practices should be received only from qualified masters, and only when a stable foundation in ethics, bodhicitta, and basic meditation has been established.

For someone just starting out, a modest, steady rhythm tends to be more beneficial than an ambitious or hurried approach. A short daily period of calm-abiding meditation, a brief aspiration that one’s practice benefit all beings, and regular participation in teachings or group practice already plant strong seeds. Study of karma, impermanence, and emptiness, together with mindful conduct in ordinary life, turns everyday situations into opportunities for patience, generosity, and awareness. Rather than chasing exotic experiences or “high” practices, it is more in keeping with the spirit of Nyingma to cultivate humility, compassion, and long-term commitment, allowing the path to unfold under the guidance of authentic teachers and the tested methods of the lineage.