Recent Cittaviveka audio talks and videos can be found on our YouTube channel. Guided Meditations are usually live streamed on YouTube every Sunday at 7.30 PM.
Category: Rains Retreat Talks
Skilful Ways to Overcome the Asavas
Ajahn Ahimsako
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.
Fortune and the Blind Turtle
Ajahn Big
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.
Dhamma Subjects for Frequent Recollection
Ajahn Maha Fookit
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.
The Drawbacks of the Human Body
Ajahn Kaccana
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.
Working with Right Effort
Ajahn Cittapala
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.
The Only Way Out Is In
Ajahn Karuniko
As Cittaviveka’s Group Practice begins, Ajahn Karuniko investigates the asavas, the outflows of the mind, and shows how these always lead us to suffering. He suggests that an antidote to this activity is to find an object of meditation that keeps the mind away from this unskilful habit, and recalls his own personal experience many years ago in New Zealand, in which he calmed his anxiety by remaining with the breath.
You’re as Good as You Can Be Right Now but Things Change
Ajahn Sucitto
On retreat we can develop a frame of reference which becomes a reliable way of filtering – not controlling – experience. Retreat structure, silence and participation are key ingredients.
Beyond Personality into Empathy
Ajahn Sucitto
Steady the citta by replenishing it with good food. These include the fruits of friendliness, goodwill, ethical sensitivity, stability, and a steady resolve. These become a drip feed.