The Undefended Heart: working mindfully with difficult emotions

In this podcast I explore working mindfully and compassionately with strong emotions with wholeness of heart.  In this practice we are not trying to fix anything. We are trying to welcome things as they are; to realize that we are inherently whole just as we are. Emotions do not need to be "fixed" by meditation It is an opportunity for us to  remember our inherent capacity to keep our hearts open to ourselves when we face challenges that bring up difficult emotional states like fear, anger and sorrow.  As we are able to be mindful, kind and feel our common humanity during difficult times it becomes possible for our hearts to soften toward ourselves and others. This form of love can be a powerful healing force in our lives and in the world.  The beginning point is creating space to breathe into the reality of whatever is here for us, right now, in this moment. To look this suffering directly in the eye, not turn away. You are invited to join me as we explore using Buddha's teaching to bring mindful  compassionate presence to our emotional life.  

 "It’s very helpful to realize that the emotions we have, the negativity and positivity , are exactly what we need to be fully human, fully aware, and fully alive"    Pema Chodrin:  

 

“There are two kinds of suffering: the suffering which leads to more suffering, and the suffering which leads to the end of suffering. The first is the pain of grasping after fleeting pleasures and aversion to the unpleasant, the continued struggle of most people day after day. The second is the suffering which comes when you allow yourself to fully feel the constant change of experience – pleasure, pain, joy, and anger – without fear or withdrawal. The suffering of our experience leads to inner fearlessness and peace”.  Ajahn Chah

 

This podcast includes for 30-40 minutes of meditation, a Dharma talk exploring ways we can work mindfully with difficult emotional states, and a sharing circle.