Dedicated in memory of Ruth Denison, the Talk explores traditional and innovative applications of the First Foundation of Mindfulness, including
Calming the Bodily Formations and nervous system, the wisdom aspects of mindfulness of the body, and mindfulness in all the postures and activities.
The pathway to our awaken heart includes deep recognition of our barriers to love, and as we open, the courage to express our love. This talk includes a reflection and practice that can support us in inhabiting our full capacity for loving presence.
- How metta is a practice of intention and concentration
- How to work with metta difficulties and cycles of purification
- How to develop authentic metta phrases
- Introduction of the metta muses (categories)
In the context of the beginning of a month-long retreat (and, for some, beginning the second month of a two-month retreat), we explore briefly the cross-cultural expressions of a spiritual "journey" or "path," and the typical stages of such a journey.
After practicing for one month, what have we learned to apply in our life as we go home, or carry us through the next month as we continue our practice?
The trance of unworthiness is sustained by our aversion to the dragons - the difficult emotions and related behaviors that are a deeply conditioned part of the human experience. In this talk we explore the awakening that is possible as we recognize our reactive patterns and instead of judgment, offer a loving and healing presence.
In this talk, a "map" of the path provides the framework for understanding the 10 fetters; the internal mind/heart conditions that produce our suffering.
