Tingsha are a pair of small, thick metal cymbals joined by a leather strap or cord. They are traditionally used in Tibetan Buddhist practice, and today many people use them to mark the start and end of a meditation. To play them, hold the cord so each cymbal hangs freely, then let the edges meet with a light tap to make a single clear, high ringing tone.

What you need

A pair of tingsha joined by a cord or strap
A soft pouch for storage (optional)

Step by step

Hold the cord. Hold the cord or strap near each cymbal, one in each hand, so the two cymbals hang freely face down and level with each other.
Line up the edges. Turn the cymbals slightly so their edges point toward each other. Tingsha are played edge to edge, not face to face.
Tap lightly. Bring the edges together with a light, quick touch and let them swing apart straight away. A gentle tap is enough; striking hard gives a harsher sound.
Let it ring. Keep the cymbals hanging freely while the tone rings out. Touching the metal stops the sound.
Use it as a marker. Strike once to begin a meditation and once more to close it, or use a single tone to mark the change from one part of a practice to the next.
Store them carefully. Wipe the cymbals with a soft, dry cloth and keep them in a pouch so the edges are not knocked against other metal objects.

Where tingsha come from

Tingsha are traditionally associated with Tibetan Buddhism, where they have long been used in prayer and ritual. Outside that tradition they are now common in meditation classes, yoga studios and home practice as a simple way to signal the start or end of a session. This is general cultural context, not a description of any specific ceremony.

Tingsha vs a singing bowl

A singing bowl gives a lower tone that can be sustained by rimming. Tingsha give a short, bright, high tone that rings and fades. Some people use tingsha to open a session and a singing bowl during it, but either one works alone.

Why are they joined by a cord?

The cord lets the cymbals hang freely so they can ring without your hands damping the metal, and it keeps the pair together.

AltarWell tingsha are coming soon

Tingsha are part of our upcoming meditation tools line and are not on sale yet. See what is planned in Meditation Tools (coming soon), or join the list to hear when they arrive.

Moon phase dates

Planning a ritual around the lunar cycle? Exact new and full moon times in Central Time are listed by month. Moon phases by month · Moon phase guide

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Candle safety basics

Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before every lighting.
Never leave a burning candle unattended, and extinguish it before you go to bed or leave the room.
Burn for no more than 4 hours at a time, then let the candle cool fully before relighting.
Place the jar on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from children, pets, drafts and anything that can catch fire.

More detail: Candle care & safety · FAQ