Ajahn Cittapala reflects on SN 22.1, the Nakulapita Sutta, explaining how an aging, afflicted body does not have to mean an afflicted, suffering mind. She shows how the not self nature of the body means that we can let go of identification with it, and hence be free of sorrow and suffering.
Ajahn Ahimsako investigates the Sabbasava Sutta, the Discourse on all Asavas. Looking at the 3 asavas (outflows), of sense desire, becoming, and ignorance, he explains how meditation can illuminate the more subtle outflows of the mind, and examines the 7 skilful methods outlined by the Buddha to reduce and ultimately overcome the asavas.
Ajahn Karuniko reflects on the five hindrances to meditation practice, and points out that it is more challenging, but essential, to be able to work with these hindrances when involved in a lot of activity and busy social interactions. He also gives examples on dealing with fear, when a Thai meditation master encountered an elephant on his walking meditation path, and from his own experience of hiking in the snowy mountains of Slovenia and crossing a perilous ridge.
Can you take 10-15 minutes to refresh your heart and mind?
What’s offered here may help you with …
• Calming and steadying the mind.
• Restoring emotional balance.
• Understanding where compulsive habits begin and supporting a reset.
• Discovering inner depths.
Ajahn Big remarks on the fortunate situation we find ourselves in, being in contact with Dhamma teachings and having the ability to practise them. He recounts how the Buddha likened the chance of being born as a human to a blind turtle emerging into a hoop on the surface of the ocean, and declares that the present moment is a gift to be utilized and cherished.
Ajahn Maha Fookit refers to one of the important reflection chants in monastic training, subjects on which daily contemplation can have very beneficial results. He points out that while the Buddhist path may be long and sometimes difficult, by reflecting in this way, it is possible to find happiness and fulfillment along the way.
On the occasion of Asalha Puja, Ajahn Ahimsako discusses the Buddha’s first sermon, the
Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (SN 56.11), the Discourse on Setting in Motion the Wheel of Dhamma. He points out that while physical and emotional pain is inevitable in life, mental suffering is completely optional, and it is up to each of one us to apply the Buddha’s teaching on the Four Noble Truths and to find our way to freedom.
Ajahn Kaccana shows the surprising benefits that can result from an honest assessment of the frailties and limitations of the body. He shows that by not looking for fulfillment or solidity in a body that is bound to change and eventually perish, we can instead find more secure refuges in elements of Dhamma such as morality and awareness.
Ajahn Cittapala examines right effort, suggesting that it is an attunement to harmony. She explains that going against the way things are creates tension, and that it is helpful to arise a sense of zeal to develop wholesome states and be able to abandon unwholesome ones.