This was the opening session for the online retreat Practising Wisdom and Compassion in Turbulent Times. It also features Chris Cullen (co-teacher) and Mat Schencks (assistant).
On Āsalha Puja we commemorate the occasion when the Buddha gave his first teaching on the Four Noble Truths and the Middle Path of Practice. By cultivating this Path, the mind stops looking outside of itself – it finds pleasure in itself.
The Four Foundations for awakening are explored: wisdom, truth, relinquishment and peace. A very juicy discourse. The ex-king, Pukkusati, becomes an arahat.
Contemplating the mind, not trying to change or explain it, knowing it as just a mental state, a result of causes and conditions. If feeling pressed upon by the mind, pause and widen. Bring attention to the body. Determine the appropriate attitude for settling.
