In these uncertain times, our roles as individuals in the sweeping events washing over the world stage can feel deeply unclear, sometimes frightening and frequently overwhelming.  It is tempting to respond to these often painful situations by vacillating between anger and complacency. Buddhist teachings can offer insight into accepting “what is” while developing the capacity for equanimity and the courage for wise action.  Join Ven Tenzin Chogkyi and Mathew Divaris in a lively conversation originally aired on KSQD Santa Cruz where we navigate the nuances of accepting where we are, while cultivating a wish for positive transformation and avoiding the traps of striving and complacency.

Acceptance is not Complacency

The concept of Right Speech (or "Skillful Speech") is core to many Buddhist teachings about how to live an ethical life and avoid causing harm.  In our hyperconnected world, our ability to communicate beyond face-to-face has increased exponentially, and navigating our own speech (and written words) is important because of the wide-ranging ramifications that our words can have on others, as well as on our own minds.  In this talk and meditation, Ven Tenzin takes us through the practical advice given in the traditional teachings so that we can exercise our communication with skill and compassion.

Words Matter: The Power of Skillful Speech

This is borrowed from the Reflections on Buddhism show with Ven Tenzin Chogkyi that airs monthly at KSQD.org.  Find past episodes at UnlockingTrueHappiness.org.

This is borrowed from the Reflections on Buddhism show with Ven Tenzin Chogkyi that airs monthly at <a href="http://KSQD.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">KSQD.org</a>.  Find past episodes at <a href="http://UnlockingTrueHappiness.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">UnlockingTrueHappiness.org</a>.

The Four Virtues of the Heart

We’re raised to believe that our perceptions of the world around us has an objective quality, but both Buddhism and modern neuroscience agree that our perceptions can frequently be distorted, and these distortions can cause great suffering.  This "naive realism” — the belief that the world exists in the way it appears to us — is so innate to many of us, yet our beliefs, past experiences and emotional states can dramatically alter how we perceive experiences. In this informative session, Ven Tenzin discusses the many ways that our minds can play tricks on us, particularly when it comes to the impact of experiences that we perceive as negative, and shares a simple practice that can help balance and enrich our minds by reinforcing the impact of positive experiences.

The Neuroplasticity of Perception

In this episode, Ven Tenzin explores the Eight Worldly Concerns, a set of four dyads that correspond to many of the deeply held hopes and fears that drive the actions of all beings.  As we engage with the spiritual path, or even the mundane decisions of the day-to-day, a clear understanding of these forms of attachment and aversion can serve as a way to become mindful of our motivations and bring clarity and skillfulness to our actions.  In this way, we can ultimately become free from the suffering that these unconscious, habitual ways of engaging with the world can bring.

Mindfulness of Our Motivations

Capitalist consumer culture puts a huge emphasis on finding happiness in the external world.  But, this hedonic happiness is shown, both in our experience and in the scientific experiments, to be fleeting.  In this episode, Ven Tenzin speaks to a second, more durable type of happiness that is not nearly as predicated on external factors -- Eudaimonic happiness, which is derived from what we bring to the world.

The Path to Genuine Happiness

In popular culture, courage is often portrayed as loud and showy, and patience as passivity and inaction.  Yet, in Buddhist philosophy, courage is a hallmark of patience, of facing life’s challenges with resilience and wise action.  In this episode, Ven Tenzin speaks about the intrinsic link between patience and courage, and how we can build the courage to go outside of our own comfort zones and engage in meaningful action without losing our peace of mind.

Cultivating Courage

Patience, or forbearance, is taught as one of the six perfections, the six main practices of a bodhisattva (a being who is dedicated to attaining full enlightenment for the sake of all living beings). In the well-known text, The Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life, the 8th Century Indian master Shantideva devotes the longest chapter to the practice of patience because of its importance. But what does this patience involve? Why is it so emphasized on the spiritual path? Join us for an exploration of the perfection of patience, which is needed so desperately now in our increasingly divisive age.

The Perfection of Patience

Mindfulness practice has become increasingly popular in recent years, and is being taught not only to Buddhist practitioners in meditation retreats but in every context, from maximum-security prisons to Silicon Valley boardrooms. But what did the Buddha teach about mindfulness, and why is this practice such a fundamental aspect of the path leading to awareness and awakening?The Four Foundations of Mindfulness, mindfulness of the body, the feelings, mind, and phenomena, was taught by the Buddha as a way to gain insight into the nature of reality. Join us for an exploration of this powerful foundational practice, and taste these insights for yourself!

Mindfulness practice has become increasingly popular in recent years, and is being taught not only to Buddhist practitioners in meditation retreats but in every context, from maximum-security prisons to Silicon Valley boardrooms. But what did the Buddha teach about mindfulness, and why is this practice such a fundamental aspect of the path leading to awareness and awakening? The Four Foundations of Mindfulness, mindfulness of the body, the feelings, mind, and phenomena, was taught by the Buddha as a way to gain insight into the nature of reality. Join us for an exploration of this powerful foundational practice, and taste these insights for yourself!

Living with Awareness:: The Four Foundations of Mindfulness

Many of us are drawn to the practices of compassion and loving-kindness, but we still struggle with forgiveness of those who have hurt us. What’s the difference between forgiveness and compassion? Why is forgiving so difficult? Does forgiving mean forgetting? Condoning the harmful action? Join us in this discussion of what forgiveness is, what it isn’t, and how to begin the process of forgiveness.

The Art of Forgiveness

Unlocking True Happiness is an exploration of the Buddha’s teachings as they are applied in our daily lives to deepen our experience of genuine well-being.  Topics combine ideas from Buddhism with those from the fields of positive psychology, Western philosophy, and current events. People from all faiths and backgrounds can apply the principles explored in this series to enhance their lives.Venerable Tenzin Chogkyi  (she/her/hers) is a Buddhist monastic, activist and teacher of both Buddhist and secular programs. She loves bridging the worlds of Buddhist thought, current events, and the latest research in the field of positive psychology.

Awe is that sense of wonder felt in the presence of something vast that transcends one’s understanding of the world. People commonly experience it in nature but also in response to religion, art and music.But recent research shows a surprising fringe benefit to moments of awe. These studies show that inducing a sense of awe in people can promote altruistic, helpful and positive social behavior.Paul Piff, a psychologist who has designed some of these studies, says, “Our investigation indicates that awe, although often fleeting and hard to describe, serves a vital social function. By diminishing the emphasis on the individual self, awe may encourage people to forgo strict self-interest to improve the welfare of others.”The researchers said they believe that awe induces a feeling of being diminished in the presence of something greater than oneself. It is this reduced sense of self that sways focus away from an individual’s need and toward the greater good.In this episode, Ven. Tenzin talks about the link between awe and altruism, and explores strategies we can use to enhance our experiences of awe, not only leading to these moments of wonder and transcendence, but motivating altruistic actions and behaviors that benefit others.

Awe is that sense of wonder felt in the presence of something vast that transcends one’s understanding of the world. People commonly experience it in nature but also in response to religion, art and music. But recent research shows a surprising fringe benefit to moments of awe. These studies show that inducing a sense of awe in people can promote altruistic, helpful and positive social behavior. Paul Piff, a psychologist who has designed some of these studies, says, “Our investigation indicates that awe, although often fleeting and hard to describe, serves a vital social function. By diminishing the emphasis on the individual self, awe may encourage people to forgo strict self-interest to improve the welfare of others.” The researchers said they believe that awe induces a feeling of being diminished in the presence of something greater than oneself. It is this reduced sense of self that sways focus away from an individual’s need and toward the greater good. In this episode, Ven. Tenzin talks about the link between awe and altruism, and explores strategies we can use to enhance our experiences of awe, not only leading to these moments of wonder and transcendence, but motivating altruistic actions and behaviors that benefit others.

The Awe-Altruism Link

The Buddha famously taught the doctrine of selflessness. But what does this mean? Doesn’t modern psychology urge us to have a healthy sense of self? What part of “me” am I trying to give up? And who am I, anyway?Everyone has a natural tendency to focus on “me” – my body, my feelings, and my thoughts. This focus has played a critical role in keeping each of us safe, alive and fed… and in developing our ego construct – the story we tell ourselves about who we are. But there comes a time when this prioritization of “me” and limited view of “who I think I am” actually gets in the way of our personal and spiritual growth. Join Ven. Tenzin Chogkyi as she shares empowering, practical steps to identify and let go of the limited ego so we can make space for something much more expansive, loving and profound.

The Buddha famously taught the doctrine of selflessness. But what does this mean? Doesn’t modern psychology urge us to have a healthy sense of self? What part of “me” am I trying to give up? And who am I, anyway? Everyone has a natural tendency to focus on “me” – my body, my feelings, and my thoughts. This focus has played a critical role in keeping each of us safe, alive and fed… and in developing our ego construct – the story we tell ourselves about who we are. But there comes a time when this prioritization of “me” and limited view of “who I think I am” actually gets in the way of our personal and spiritual growth. Join Ven. Tenzin Chogkyi as she shares empowering, practical steps to identify and let go of the limited ego so we can make space for something much more expansive, loving and profound.

In Search of Your Self

Resource:  https://www.yesmagazine.org/health-happiness/2013/12/28/the-ancient-greeks-6-words-for-love-and-why-knowing-them-can-change-your-life

Resource:  <a href="https://www.yesmagazine.org/health-happiness/2013/12/28/the-ancient-greeks-6-words-for-love-and-why-knowing-them-can-change-your-life" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.yesmagazine.org/health-happiness/2013/12/28/the-ancient-greeks-6-words-for-love-and-why-knowing-them-can-change-your-life</a>

The Six Varieties of Love

Venerable Tenzin mentions some books during this episode:The Overstory by Richard PowersFinding the Mother Tree by Suzanne SimardBraiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall KimmererBorn to Be Good by Dacher Keltner

Venerable Tenzin mentions some books during this episode:<ul><li>The Overstory by Richard Powers</li><li>Finding the Mother Tree by Suzanne Simard</li><li>Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer</li><li>Born to Be Good by Dacher Keltner</li></ul>

The Magic of Interconnection (and How it Makes Us Happier)

Eve Ekman

This interview was recorded in front of a live Zoom audience as part of the Healing the Body, Healing the Mind Online Conference in partnership with Jamyang Buddhist Center’s Science and Wisdom LIVE project.

This interview was recorded in front of a live Zoom audience as part of the Healing the Body, Healing the Mind Online Conference in partnership with <a href="https://jamyang.co.uk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jamyang Buddhist Center</a>’s Science and Wisdom LIVE project.

What's Shame Got to Do with It? Exploring Shame, Contempt and Disgust through a Contemplative Lens with Dr. Eve Ekman

Ven Tenzin mentioned a number of links during this episode, and they're here for your convenience.https://www.flare.com/identity/self-care-new-zealand-muslim-attack/https://www.healthline.com/health/when-self-care-becomes-community-care#Were-responsible-for-each-otherhttps://www.ihollaback.org/bystanderintervention/

Ven Tenzin mentioned a number of links during this episode, and they're here for your convenience.<ul><li><a href="https://www.flare.com/identity/self-care-new-zealand-muslim-attack/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.flare.com/identity/self-care-new-zealand-muslim-attack/</a></li><li><a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/when-self-care-becomes-community-care#Were-responsible-for-each-other" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.healthline.com/health/when-self-care-becomes-community-care#Were-responsible-for-each-other</a></li><li><a href="https://www.ihollaback.org/bystanderintervention/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.ihollaback.org/bystanderintervention/</a></li></ul>

Practicing Community Care

Greg Morris

Ven. Tenzin and Greg are co-teaching the Compassion Cultivation Training beginning June 30, click here for more information.

Ven. Tenzin and Greg are co-teaching the Compassion Cultivation Training beginning June 30, click <a href="https://landofmedicinebuddha.org/events/compassion-cultivation-training-cct-4-2021-06-30/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here for more information</a>.

Testing the Waters of Love with Greg Morris

Wonder

Ven Tenzin mentioned some web links during this episode, which are listed below.https://onbeing.org/programs/ross-gay-tending-joy-and-practicing-delight/ https://www.npr.org/2021/02/18/969032187/the-gratitude-chain-a-j-jacobs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9aT0A28IW7E

Ven Tenzin mentioned some web links during this episode, which are listed below.<a href="https://onbeing.org/programs/ross-gay-tending-joy-and-practicing-delight/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://onbeing.org/programs/ross-gay-tending-joy-and-practicing-delight/</a> <a href="https://www.npr.org/2021/02/18/969032187/the-gratitude-chain-a-j-jacobs" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.npr.org/2021/02/18/969032187/the-gratitude-chain-a-j-jacobs</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9aT0A28IW7E" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9aT0A28IW7E</a>

Bringing Back the Wonder

Dr Ekman mentions an upcoming summit in the podcast.  If of interest, the link is below.Explore the Science, Wisdom, and Power of Emotionswith His Holiness the Dalai Lamaand over 30 Leading Scientists + World Renowned TeachersJoin this Special Free Global EventMay 2-5, 2021https://www.scienceandwisdomofemotions.com/

Dr Ekman mentions an upcoming summit in the podcast.  If of interest, the link is below.Explore the Science, Wisdom, and Power of Emotions with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and over 30 Leading Scientists + World Renowned TeachersJoin this Special Free Global Event May 2-5, 2021<a href="https://www.scienceandwisdomofemotions.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.scienceandwisdomofemotions.com/</a>

Unpacking Anger with Dr. Eve Ekman

This episode explores self-compassion — what it is, what it's not and how it can make you happier. Put simply, self-compassion is simply treating yourself with the same kindness, concern, and support you'd show a good friend. So, why is it so difficult? What are some of the obstacles to self-compassion? Is there a way we can train ourselves in self-compassion? In this session, Ven. Tenzin discusses why it’s so difficult to give ourselves the same kindness and compassion that we would a friend, and will also introduce us to a short self-compassion practice that we can take into our daily lives to increase our happiness and well-being.

Self-Compassion

Unlocking True Happiness is an exploration of the Buddha’s teachings as they are applied in our daily lives to deepen our experience of genuine well-being. Topics combine ideas from Buddhism with those from the fields of positive psychology, Western philosophy, and current events. People from all faiths and backgrounds can apply the principles explored in this series to enhance their lives. Venerable Tenzin Chogkyi (she/her/hers) is a Buddhist monastic, activist and teacher of both Buddhist and secular programs. She loves bridging the worlds of Buddhist thought, current events, and the latest research in the field of positive psychology.

Unlocking True Happiness

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Best Episodes on Mental Health, Emotions & Thoughts

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