This talk examines the way that states of mind form and shape the world we experience in each moment, and how we can transform that world by knowing the state of our mind from moment to moment, and changing our relationship to it.
Mindfulness can alter the conditions supporting the moment by moment creation of suffering by: 1. Changing WHAT the mind processes; 2. Changing HOW the mind processes; and 3. Changing the VIEW of what the mind processes.
Loving Kindness is seen as central in the Buddha's path of practice and increasingly in mindfulness-based applications. This talk considers the reasons for this.
Worlds of experience within which we dwell as a variety of 'selfs' are discussed in light of Buddhist teachings and contemporary cognitive perspectives. Insight into the suffering and non-self nature of unwholesome mind-states transforms our relationship to those worlds.
The First and Second Noble Truths on the nature and origins of Dukkha (suffering) are discussed, with a particular focus on identification and attachment to being (or not being) a particular kind of self.
The hindrances not only obstruct meditation practice, but stand between us and our inherent potential for clarity, wisdom and compassion. Ways of working with the hindrances to reveal that potential are discussed.