by Peter Carlson | May 8, 2025 | Listen to Dharma Talks
During this talk, Peter reviews the characteristics of intention, suggesting that this function of the mind emerges from the complex interactions between various neurological networks in the brain, not attributable to the existence of a self. This contemporary view of how intentions form and operate describes two functions of consciousness–cognitive intentions and behavioral intentions. We can train to be able to mindfully monitor the emerging intentions associated with thoughts and beliefs, accompanied by the ability to mindfully attend to the intention to either act or not act on the cognitive manifestations, depending upon their ethical attributes or suitability in a situation. This review includes quotes from Buddhist commentaries on the characteristics of cetana, the Pali word typically translated as intention or volition.
This talk was preceded by a supportive guided meditation: “Guided Contemplation of Intention”, which is posted in the Audio archive on this site.
Here are the notes prepared for this talk: Intention Creates the Self
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:06:14 — 60.6MB)
by Peter Carlson | May 8, 2025 | Listen to Dharma Talks
The mindful investigation and effective management of intention is considered to be a primary goal of meditation practice, beginning with the intention to aim attention on the changing sensations occurring while practicing mindfulness of breathing meditation. During this guided contemplation Peter suggests various ways to cultivate mindfulness of two ways that intention manifests, focused on cognitive processes and focused on behavior.
This meditation is intended to be supportive of the information that is provided during the Dharma talk that follows, titled “Intention Creates the Self”.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 45:02 — 41.2MB)
by Peter Carlson | May 1, 2025 | Listen to Dharma Talks
During this talk, Lili reviews how her studies and meditation practices have helped her effectively manage migraine headaches and the pain of sciatica. She invited participants to ask questions or share their experience regarding pain, and several people provided reports about how their meditation practice was helpful for managing incidental or chronic pain effectively.
There is an accompanying recording posted in the Audio page titled “Mindfulness Based Pain Management Contemplation” that is intended to support what is discussed during this Dharma talk.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 58:13 — 53.3MB)
by Peter Carlson | May 1, 2025 | Listen to Dharma Talks
This guided meditation provides suggestions for integrating mindfulness, investigation and letting go of impulsive reactivity while practicing body scanning, in order to cultivate more equanimity regarding pain as well as intrusive/demanding uncomfortable thoughts and moods. it is intended to accompany the Dharma talk following the meditation titled “Mindfulness Based Pain Management”.
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by Peter Carlson | Apr 24, 2025 | Listen to Dharma Talks
During this talk, April describes how important it is to integrate the benefits of formal mindfulness meditation with walking, particularly while outdoors in nature. She shares her own experience and insights that emerge in a variety of settings during normal daily routines from this practice and invites others participating in the meeting to share their insights as well.
Here are the notes prepared for this talk: Stillness in Motion – Google Slides (002)
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:01:55 — 56.7MB)
by Peter Carlson | Apr 17, 2025 | Listen to Dharma Talks
One time per month, Peter provides the opportunity for those participating in the meeting to ask questions about Buddhist concepts and meditation practice. He also provides a brief review of the relationship between each of the Four Noble Truths, emphasizing that different subjective experiences require different focusing on each of the Truths. During the meeting, Peter also provides comments about his understanding of emptiness, the absence of an enduring/autonomous self. He describes his experiences of awareness that is disinterested in defining bodily boundaries and is inclusive of the totality of sensory and cognitive “flow” without interest in differentiating objects within the flow experience. During the description, he recalls hearing Joseph Goldstein talk about the importance of “effortless effort”, and the benefits of just letting go of any resistance or attachment during the out-breath, when the mind is stable and tranquil. He also suggests that these qualities of awareness are not “created” by a meditator, that liberating states of mind are ever-present, and that cultivating the Seven Awakening Factors frees the mind from hindrances that obstruct direct awareness of emptiness.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:09:08 — 63.3MB)