Developing a clear understanding of the teachings and learning to fully inhabit the body have been core parts of my Dhamma practice. These areas, as well a strong emphasis on the heart, inform and shape my teaching. The few years I spent training as an Anagarika in the Thai Forest monasteries broadened my understanding of the Buddha's teachings and instilled a profound respect for the Bhikkhu and Bhikkhuni Sangha. All along the way, I've been particularly interested in how other modalities like Nonviolent Communication and Somatics can support our growth in awakening.
(4 of 15) A brief guided meditation reflecting on the changes of our lives, the ups and downs, and how after all is said and done we come back to being present, here in a simple way.
(3 of 15) An exploration of equanimity arising from wisdom that recognizes the changing, impermanent nature of the eight worldly winds, the conditions of our lives.
(2 of 15) A short guided meditation focused on developing inner resources. Includes brief instructions at end for walking meditation focused on developing ease.
The development of the path depends on the relationships and friendships in our life. This talk explores "spiritual friendship" - its many meanings and benefits
Closing Session - part 1. In this short teaching and guided meditation, we explore how to use the meditation instructions in the Simile of the Saw (Kakchupama Sutta, MN. 21) as preparation and cultivation for difficult conversations.
Teaching, practice and discussion on emotions: where do they come from? How can we express them constructively? Using the form of making observations, stating feelings and needs.
A brief overview of the practice of loving-kindness, in particular as it relates to speech and interactive practice. Includes guidance and instructions.
The series on the Seven Awakening factors concludes with Oren J. Sofer’s talk on the quality of equanimity. Sofer tells us that this quality develops slowly among the other factors and is considered one of the highest attainments in Buddhist practice. The fore-taste of evenness and balance can be considered a glimpse into the mind of an awakened being.
How do hold the teachings on letting go, non-attachment and non-self with the reality of having needs as a human being. What are needs and how do we relate to them with wisdom in a world that is beyond our control, neither suppressing and denying them nor becoming overly fixated or identified with them?
Using attention to identify an unmet need, and to shift to recognizing what matters at the core independent of any situation, time, person, place, or thing.
Right Speech is a key factor in the cultivation of the Noble Eightfold Path, shaping the heart and mind even as the heart-mind shapes our speech. Our intention is the decisive factor in determine the direction and shape of our speech, our heart and our mind.
We are social creatures with the capacities for connection, empathy, and understanding. This talk introduces the practice of Right Speech as an essential part of the path to awakening.
The teachings of Buddhism are often understood as an individual practice of psychological and spiritual liberation. How do these teachings and practices apply to transforming our relationships and our society? What is the freedom promised by the Buddhist path and how does it relate to issues of systemic oppression and collective suffering?
Closing talk: Dhamma practice is a way of life that can be cultivated and expressed in all activities. Suggestions for going home and bringing the practice into life.
The hindrances are part of the inner landscape on the journey to wholeness and awakening. When we recognize them with mindfulness, they don't need to be a problem.
Combination of the core guidelines for Wise Speech offered by Buddhist Tradition, as well as the contemporary discipline of Nonviolent Communication. Part 2 of 2 (afternoon)
Combination of the core guidelines for Wise Speech offered by Buddhist Tradition, as well as the contemporary discipline of Nonviolent Communication. Part 1 of 2 (morning)
Reflections on what it means to walk the path of Dharma in America in 2017, examining the key practice of taking refuge as a support for meeting the challenges of our times.
Spiritual practice can be a serious affair, yet having a sense of playful interest and joy is essential. This talk explores the parallels between formal meditation practice and play.
Many are drawn to Buddhism and spirituality with a keen interest in meditation. Yet before offering any meditation instructions, the Buddha guided his disciples in a progression of practice known as The Gradual Training. This training provides a step-by-step approach to living a life of meaning and inner happiness, and culminates in the highest fruit of contemplative practice – Awakening.
During this day of integrated practice, we explored these essential aspects of the Buddhist path as a ground for happiness and the foundation of meditation.
Many are drawn to Buddhism and spirituality with a keen interest in meditation. Yet before offering any meditation instructions, the Buddha guided his disciples in a progression of practice known as The Gradual Training. This training provides a step-by-step approach to living a life of meaning and inner happiness, and culminates in the highest fruit of contemplative practice – Awakening.
During this day of integrated practice, we explored these essential aspects of the Buddhist path as a ground for happiness and the foundation of meditation.
We are deeply connected to one another and all of life. When we are willing to meet pain and suffering with awareness, to feel what is present in our hearts, the door to compassion and awakening can open.
Our hearts and minds can be shaped and trained to meet experience with kindness. Metta offers strength as a resource and a doorway to happiness and connection.
