Phowa is the "transference of consciousness" practice—the practitioner visualizes the crown opening and moves the mind (often a point of light) through the central channel to the pure land of Amitābha or a deity. Gelug places phowa within Tsongkhapa’s Lamrim and tantric teachings: first the foundation of renunciation and bodhicitta, then the esoteric transference.

The lama, by this lineage, performs the real transference for the dying and the dead—not a mystery, but the power of lineage opening a path for the consciousness.

• **Peace at death.** Guides the dying, easing fear and dispersion, giving the mind a refuge.
• **Support in the bardo.** The consciousness is transferred, not born into bad karma, turning toward a good rebirth or pure land.
• **Ease for the family.** Seeing the lama practice properly, the family’s longing finds a resting place.

Online phowa follows the Gelug lineage:

• **Visualization and crown opening.** The lama performs phowa before the maṇḍala, transferring the consciousness of the dead (or on behalf of the dying).
• **Mantra recitation.** Reciting the deity and Avalokiteśvara mantras purifies obscurations and blesses the transference.
• **Dedication.** Merit dedicated solely to the dead or dying, that the consciousness be transferred and born in a good place.
• **Record.** A practice record is provided after the ceremony as witness.

You need not be present—transference rests on the lama’s practice and your faith, not on distance.