During this talk, Peter responded to various questions about mindfulness of breathing meditation practice, understanding how to cultivate insights regarding the self-creating process, and the body scanning practice taught by S. N. Goenka.
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We live during stressful times, and the Buddhist concept of dukkha seems appropriate to review in this context. During this talk, Peter describes three aspects of dukkha–the physical experience of dukkha, the uncertainty we are confronted with regarding unexpected cultural and environmental changes, and the essential but unreliable nature of how the internal and private “selfing story” is a common human affliction.
The talk was preceded by a guided meditation entitled “Contemplating Dukkha”, which is intended to complement the contents of this talk.
Here are the notes prepared for this talk: Understanding Dukkha
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We live in trying times, and it may be useful to increase our ability to observe and effectively manage the levels of distress and confusion that are termed Dukkha from a Buddhist perspective. The comments during the guided meditation provide ways to recognize and contemplate three aspects of Dukkha–the physical experience of pain and muscle tension, the uncertain and unpredictable nature of the rapid cultural and ecological changes of this time, and the vulnerability to dysfunctional beliefs and behaviors that humanity is confronted with. The foundational concepts and practices that Buddhism provides can, with dedicated meditative training, support our efforts to not be so afflicted by Dukkha, and this contemplation includes suggestions about how to apply these practices.
This guided contemplation is intended to support the Dharma talk that followed this recording entitled “Understanding Dukkha”.
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During this talk, April reviews current neurological information associated with habituation, describing how our minds and bodies develop patterns that allow us to function more efficiently in regard to energy utilization, but can interfere with our ability to effectively adapt to changing circumstances. She then talks about how Buddhist concepts and practices such as the Four Noble Truths can interrupt dysfunctional habit patterns and provide relief from being “stuck” within a distorted self-image and provide support for more creative and beneficial responses during these difficult times.
Here are the notes prepared for this talk: Waking Up To Habituation
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:04:50 — 59.4MB)
During this talk, Peter responds to various questions from those participating regarding their understanding of Buddhist concepts and their meditation experiences. Examples of questions include clarification regarding how aiming and sustaining attention on breath sensations matures into investigation of what arises in the mind, consideration regarding Chogyam Trungpa’s comments on gradual rather than sudden Awakening, and how to cultivate non-reactive awareness of craving and clinging.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:06:57 — 61.3MB)