Meditation & Dharma Talk

Meditation & dharma talk

The talk explores virya (energy) as a multidimensional quality essential to Buddhist practice, discussing how it functions as the "rudder and motor" that propels practitioners forward while serving as an antidote to sloth and torpor. Dawn shares personal experiences of struggling with having "too much energy" and feeling like a "bad yogi," while illuminating how embracing this quality in all its manifestations—from mild interest to balanced effort—can transform one's practice and cultivate joy. The talk invites practitioners to connect with what they trust in and have confidence in as a way to spark the balanced energy that brings forth the joy of practicing.

This dhamma talk and Q&A was offered on May 10, 2024 for “How do I apply the Dhamma to THIS!?!” 00:00 - DHAMMA TALK 27:41 - Q&A

In this guided practice period, we explore two aspects of equanimity - non-reactivity towards our moment-to-moment experience and acceptance and non-control towards the experiences of those we love.

After some comments on the relationships among the Brahmaviharas and how an understanding of non-self supports the natural expression of the Brahmaviharas, we practice mudita with respect to several categories of beings. This session ends with a brief Q&A.

Teachings & Reflections

Short Reflection & Guided Meditation | Earthworm Practice for the Anthropocene III | Online Wednesday-Mornings.

We first review of some of the themes explored last week. We look at the appropriateness of understanding and responding to social and political concerns, in the context of non-profit organizations and then in the context of the Buddha's teachings (which involved commentary on the caste system, on the origins of wars and poverty) and later Buddhist traditions (for example, King Ashoka, a practitioner in what is now India in 250 B.C.E. eliminated the death penalty, renounced war, and set up medical facilities for non-human animals). We then identify four foundations for bringing our attention to social and political concerns, including staying connected to the vision and practice of awakening and grounding ethically. This is followed by identifying, through the lens of teachings, six contemporary systems and ideologies (strengthened in the current U.S.) that manifest greed, aversion, and delusion and violate core ethical teachings. Then we look briefly at ways of practicing and responding individually, in connection with community. The talk is followed by discussion.