The recorded dharma talk that we listen on the self-led day retreats enriches the day and stimulates reflection and deepening of our practice.
The talks are provided through an organisation called Dharmaseed. While they are free of charge we are invited to express our gratitude for the recorded teachings by offering donations (Dana). The tradition of Dana in Buddhism is an acknowledgement of our interconnectedness and interdependence. Details on how to give Dana can be found at www. dharmseed.org/donation
November 2024
2021-07-25 Instructions: Attending Skilfully to Body Pain and Discomfort
55:25
Zohar Lavie
Gaia House : Coming to Life: Waking up to Intimacy with Existence
David say’s
People often experience pain when sitting still for long periods on retreat. Pain and discomfort are also constant background track to everyday life. We often tense around these experiences. How can our practice help us find more ease? Zohar offers a range of practical techniques.
October 2024
2023-06-21 Taking the RAFT Home: Working with the 5 Hindrances 60:34
Gullu Singh
In this talk Gullu introduces the 5 hindrances: Desire, Aversion, Sloth/Torpor, Restlessness & Doubt and how they keep us from feeling comfortable or “at home” with the present moment. He also introduces the acronym RAFT from Gil Fronsdal as a method of working with them. RAFT is Recognize, Allow, Feel & Tease Apart. The talk uses some visual aids which can be found at https://links.gullusingh.com/mj1
Spirit Rock Meditation Center : Mindfulness For Everyone
David says:
What gets in the way of our meditation practise? A lot! This talk takes a close look at the obstacles like doubt, restlessness, and tiredness. We tend to struggle with these experiences. By becoming intimate with them we can move through them. We can then relax into the present moment.
September 2024
2020-02-17 Monday Night Dharma Talk – Gratitude and Empathy 57:51
Pawan Bareja
David says:
Cultivating gratitude has multiple benefits. We can enjoy and appreciate what we already have now, rather than striving for future results. Pawan looks at how gratitude can help us cope with suffering and open our hearts. A great talk Autumn 2024.
August 2024
2022-02-17 25 instructions and meditation: mindfulness of thinking 60:20
Gil Fronsdal
Understanding how we’re relating to our thinking, and learning how to not be bothered by our thoughts
Auckland Insight Meditation : Cultivation and Insight
David says:
Meditation instructions can seem to discourage thinking. But can we step back from the content of our thoughts. And observe the process. What is the relationship between our thoughts, feelings and physical sensations? Gil explores these important issues.
July 2024
2022-09-22 The Judging mind 59:57
Sally Armstrong
Many of us tend to be critical and judgmental of ourselves and others. In meditation, this habit can seem quite strong and can create a lot of suffering. But mindfulness is a wonderful tool to enable us to see these thoughts for what they are, so we can begin to bring wisdom and understanding to them. The good news is, like any conditioned habit, we can learn to decondition this pattern.
Insight Meditation Society – Retreat Center : Three-Month Retreat – Part 1
David says:
Our minds constantly judge, comment on, and criticise. While this can be helpful to manage our lives, it can also limit us. Self-criticism can prevent us going deeper in meditation. Sally exposes the inner critic and explains how to disarm it. A great talk for Summer 2024.
June 2024
2018-09-20 Shame, Self-compassion and the Body (Retreat at Spirit Rock) 57:23
Awareness of the body can bring up strong emotions, like shame. Compassion and self-compassion are antidotes to shame.
Christiane Wolf , Spirit Rock Meditation Center : Finding Freedom in the Body
David says:
Shame is one of the most difficult feelings to be with. Even thought it is a widely shared experience it often leaves us feeling isolated. Christiane talks in a lively and insightful way about this, disclosing her own experiences around her body image. She describes how body awareness and self-compassion offer a route through shame.
May 2024
The Spirit of Play in Dharma: Enjoying Your Meditation Practice: 56:24
This talk was given by Oren Jay Sofer (2018-07-19). As a Zen teacher of mine used to say, “Life… very serious joke.” Things can get really heavy sometimes – in life, and in contemplative practice. This talk explores the importance of finding some levity and enjoyment in our formal spiritual practice through the lens of play. Enjoy! Insight Meditation Community of Berkeley : IMCB Regular Talks.
David says:
Most of us have a strong work ethic. Society supports this. We may find we unknowingly apply this attitude to our meditation practice. Oren indicates how a quality of joyful play can be at the heart of our practice. A great way to welcome Spring.
April 2024
Monet’s Haystack: The Art and Science of The Meditative Journey 55:22
Joseph Goldstein
A discussion of the creativity and methodology of insight meditation.
Spirit Rock Meditation Center : July Insight Meditation Retreat
David says:
Joseph explores the creative aspects of the meditative journey. These include mindfulness and impermanence. How can you see your life as a work of art? A great talk for Spring 2024.
March 2024
2022-10-06 Skilful Creativity and Imagination 63:54
Kirsten Kratz
Gaia House : Liberating Ways of Looking
David says:
Is there a place for imagination in our meditation practice? Can this be a seen as a creative activity? Kirsten explores the connection between our mind, body and heart.
A great talk to launch spring 2024.
February 2024
2022-06-02 Mindfulness of breathing 55:25
Guy Armstrong
Mindfulness of breathing has been the most widespread meditation in Buddhism since its beginning. It is included within mindfulness of the body and offers specific benefits as well. The talk also describes some of the obstacles practitioners may encounter with this technique.
Insight Meditation Society – Forest Refuge : June 2022
David says:
Watching the breath coming in and out of the body is the fundamental meditation technique. It is simple to describe but hard to practise. This talk explores the many ways this can benefit. These include relaxation, concentration and well-being. A great talk as we move out of winter.
January 2024
2023-06-21 Taking the RAFT Home: Working with the 5 Hindrances 60:34
Gullu Singh
In this talk Gullu introduces the 5 hindrances: Desire, Aversion, Sloth/Torpor, Restlessness & Doubt and how they keep us from feeling comfortable or “at home” with the present moment. He also introduces the acronym RAFT from Gil Fronsdal as a method of working with them. RAFT is Recognize, Allow, Feel & Tease Apart. The talk uses some visual aids which can be found at https://links.gullusingh.com/mj1
Spirit Rock Meditation Center : Mindfulness For Everyone
David says:
What gets in the way of our meditation practise? A lot! This talk takes a close look at the obstacles like doubt. By becoming intimate with these we can work through them. So, a great talk for a grey January.
Talks listened to in 2023
December 2023
2022-05-28 Awakening Joy as a Practice (Retreat at Spirit Rock) 58:17
James Baraz
In his teaching on The Four Wise Efforts, the Buddha taught us to maintain and increase wholesome states (kusala) when they arise. This talk explains how to make that a central part of our practice.
Spirit Rock Meditation Center : Awakening Joy and Wellbeing
David says: In our practice there is often more emphasis on overcoming suffering then on finding for joy. But meditation can help us notice and maintain positive states. Joyful states can be the object of our practise. This can be a welcome antidote to the brain’s negative bias. An inspiring talk for Winter.
November 2023
Tara Brach
While we all need to customize meditation, this is particularly important for those living with PTSD or strong, potentially overwhelming emotions. This talk explores how trauma cuts us off from wholeness and is accompanied by a deep and painful experience of shame.
We look at the ways meditation can be adapted to cultivate sufficient safety for the full transformational healing of mindfulness to unfold. The gift of processing trauma is that the place of woundedness becomes a gateway into profound love, healing, and freedom.
Insight Meditation Community of Washington DC
David says: Our meditation practise can put us in touch with strong emotions. The source of these may be past traumas, small or large. Then it can be hard to feel we’re making progress. But meditation can also be a gateway to healing. A great talk for the interesting times we’re living in!
October 2023
2017-09-13 Ecodharma: Buddhism in a Time of Crisis 62:44
David Loy
Cambridge Insight Meditation Center
David says:
The media constantly reminds us that we are living in a time of deep climate crisis. Though some say this is not an appropriate topic for a retreat there is no more appropriate or necessary topic. How does all this relate to our personal meditation practice? How can we respond skilfully to the challenges ahead?
September 2023
2014-10-17 Five subjects for frequent recollection: what the Buddha encouraged us to think about. 57:29
Sally Armstrong
The five subjects or themes that the Buddha considered important for frequent recollection are:
- I am of the nature to age; I have not gone beyond ageing
- I am of the nature to sicken; I have not gone beyond sickness
- I am of the nature to die; I have not gone beyond dying
- All that is mine, beloved and pleasing, will become otherwise, will become separated from me
- I am the owner of my karma, heir to my karma, born of my karma. Whatever karma I shall do, for good or for ill, of that I will be the heir.
To contemplate these themes brings us in direct contact with the truth of things, especially the truth of dukkha, or suffering. Fully understanding these truths allows us to open to the reality of our life, and every life, and deepens our capacity for compassion.
Insight Meditation Society – Forest Refuge : October 2014 at IMS – Forest Refuge
David says:
“Illness and ageing are an inevitable part of all life. Many of us struggle with this fundamental truth. How can our practise help us come to terms with this unavoidable truth.”
August 2023
Tending the World; Tending the garden of the heart by Jack Kornfield
July 2023
2018-05-22 The Company We Keep: Reflections on Friendship 55:43
Oren Jay Sofer
The development of the path depends on the relationships and friendships in our life. What is “spiritual friendship” – its many meanings and benefits.
Insight Meditation Society – Retreat Center : Metta: Lovingkindness Retreat
David says: “Having good friends makes us happy and healthy. Yet many people today suffer from loneliness. This talk explores the value and characteristics of true friendship. How to be (and make) good friends.”
June 2023
2021-07-25 Instructions: Attending Skilfully to Body Pain and Discomfort 55:25
Zohar Lavie
Gaia House : Coming to Life: Waking up to Intimacy with Existence
David say’s “People often experience pain when sitting still for long periods on retreat. Pain and discomfort are also constant background track to everyday life. How can our practice help us find more ease? Zohar offers a range of practical techniques.
May 2023
2018-11-03 Sexual Energy and Intimacy 57:09
Brian Lesage
This talk offers reflections on how to navigate the impulse to connect and sexual energy while on retreat.
David say’s “We often have the impulse to become closer to others. This can have a sexual tinge. Habitually we may deny this or indulge in fantasy. Brian sensitively explores how to navigate intimacy & sexuality on retreat and in life. Interesting! A great talk for Spring 2023.
March 2023
The Spirit of Play in Dharma: Enjoying Your Meditation Practice: 56:24 was given by Oren Jay Sofer (2018-07-19). As a Zen teacher of mine used to say, “Life… very serious joke.” Things can get really heavy sometimes – in life, and in contemplative practice. This talk explores the importance of finding some levity and enjoyment in our formal spiritual practice through the lens of play. Enjoy! Insight Meditation Community of Berkeley : IMCB Regular Talks.
David say’s “Most of us have a strong work ethic. Society supports this. We may find we unknowingly apply this attitude to our meditation practice. Oren indicates how a quality of joyful play can be at the heart of our practice. A great way to welcome Spring.
February 2023
The February talk is given by Tempel Smith and is called Meditative Steps in Mindfulness of Breathing – Anapanasati. In many discourses the Buddha gave very detailed instructions on how to develop Mindfulness of Breathing from our first awareness of breathing in and out through calming the mind into samadhi (concentration) and then steps to cultivate liberating insight. These 16 steps also include the cultivation of happiness and contentment as an aspect of the path to freedom. It was given at the Spirit Rock Meditation Center USA.
David, a sangha member says, “Being aware of breathing is the core meditation technique … easy to describe … hard to stay with.” Tempel explains with humour and insight how to work with this powerful method. He takes us step-by-step to a calmer and more centred place. Keep (noticing your) breathing!
January 2023
2022-05-28 Awakening Joy as a Practice (Retreat at Spirit Rock) 58:17
James Baraz
In his teaching on The Four Wise Efforts, the Buddha taught us to maintain and increase wholesome states (kusala) when they arise. This talk explains how to make that a central part of our practice.
Spirit Rock Meditation Center : Awakening Joy and Wellbeing
David Says: In our practice there is often more emphasis on overcoming suffering then going for joy. But meditation can help us notice and maintain positive states. This can be a welcome antidote to the brain’s negative bias. An inspiring talk for Winter 2023.
Talks listened to in 2022
December 2022
2022-09-22 The Judging mind 59:57
Sally Armstrong
Many of us tend to be critical and judgmental of ourselves and others. In meditation, this habit can seem quite strong and can create a lot of suffering. But mindfulness is a wonderful tool to enable us to see these thoughts for what they are, so we can begin to bring wisdom and understanding to them. The good news is, like any conditioned habit, we can learn to decondition this pattern.
Insight Meditation Society – Retreat Center : Three-Month Retreat – Part 1
David says: Our minds constantly judge, comment on, and criticise. While this can be helpful to manage our lives, it can also limit us. Self-criticism can prevent us going deeper in meditation. Sally exposes the inner critic and explains how to disarm it. A great talk for the run up to Christmas.
November 2022
2022-09-16 Mindfulness of Breathing 56:52
Guy Armstrong
The foremost meditation practice in the Theravadin tradition. There are many benefits and also some potential obstacles in this practice.
Insight Meditation Society – Retreat Center : Three-Month Retreat – Part 1
2022-08-17 12 Steps of Breathing Concentration (Retreat at Spirit Rock) 63:50
David Says: Awareness of breathing is the core meditation practice. This simple technique is the doorway to deep insight. But how do we relate to boredom, distraction, thinking and self-judgment while we practice? A great talk for an interesting Winter!
October 2022
2021-11-08 Monday Night Dharma Talk – Climate Code Red: A Needed Shift to Meet These Times 57:47
Thanissara
Climate change and other global crises are an existential threat. In our connected world we are constantly reminded of this. This can lead to more anxiety & hopelessness. How can meditation help build the resilience we need. A great talk for modern times!
September 2002
2014-01-14 Hardwiring Happiness 1:16:46
Rick Hanson
In his newest book, Hardwiring Happiness: The New Brain Science of Contentment, Calm, and Confidence, Dr. Rick Hanson explains how the mind shapes the brain: neurons that fire together, wire together. Positive experiences are the main source of the neural structures underlying motivation, self-worth, the executive functions, good mood, kindness, resilience, and other inner strengths.
David Says: Rick explores the intersection of meditation, psychology, and neuroscience. The human brain is extremely plastic: it learns constantly from experience. How can we grow strengths for these seemingly mundane day-to-day experiences? An inspiring talk for an event Autumn.
August 2022
Lela Kate Wheeler on How to Practice – using practice to explore concepts and beliefs about ourselves and others leading to greater compassion and understanding.
July 2022
2020-02-15 Teachings on Impermanence (Retreat at Spirit Rock) 62:47
Kamala Masters
Two Views of the nature of impermanence: The moment-to-moment view, and the infinite immensity view.
David Says: Impermanence means everything changes all the time. We can observe this closely when we meditate. But it is easy to miss the significance of this profound truth. Impermanence can open the door to a more relaxed life. A great talk for an eventful Summer!
June 2022
2022-02-17 25 instructions and meditation: mindfulness of thinking 60:20
Gil Fronsdal
Understanding how we’re relating to our thinking, and learning how to not be bothered by our thoughts
Auckland Insight Meditation : Cultivation and Insight
David says:
Meditation instruction can seem to discourage thinking. But can we step back from the content of our thoughts. And observe the process. What is the relationship between our thoughts, feelings and physical sensations?
May 2022
2021-03-17 Fear of Aging: Finding Freedom in this Impermanent World – Part 1 55:08
Tara Brach
While it’s natural to have fears of what’s ahead, when we learn to face the inevitability of change and loss without resistance, we discover true peace and freedom in the midst. In a very direct way, our awareness of impermanence awakens unconditional loving. The quoted prayer “And all shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well” is from 14th century mystic, Julian of Norwich, in her work “Revelations of Divine Love.”
David Says: We are all ageing since the day we were born. Getting older brings all sorts of changes; some welcome, some not! It may also bring many fears. How can understanding impermanence help us accept (even enjoy) getting older! An inspiring talk for Spring 2022.
April 2022
2013-07-21 Monet’s Haystack: The Art and Science of The Meditative Journey 55:22
Joseph Goldstein
A discussion of the creativity and methodology of insight meditation.
Spirit Rock Meditation Center : July Insight Meditation Retreat
David says:
Joseph explores the creative aspects of the meditative journey. These include mindfulness and impermanence. How can you see your life as a work of art? A great talk for Spring 2022.
March 2022
2019-07-29 Relationships 58:22
Chas DiCapua
How can we be in a healthy relationship with other human beings, and all of life?
Insight Meditation Society – Retreat Center : Insight Meditation Retreat for 18–32 Year Olds
David says:
Our relationships create both joy and suffering. How can a meditation practice help develop better relationships? With the easing of the pandemic, we are returning to meeting people in person. A great opportunity to look at how we touch each other. And making all relationships an intimate part of our practice. A great talk for Spring 2022.
February 2022
2017-12-06 Technology, Meditation & Relationship: Waking Up in the Modern World 55:00
Oren Jay Sofer
Cambridge Insight Meditation Center
David says:
Over the last decades smart phones and the internet have dramatically and rapidly transformed our lives. These have changed not just our behaviour but our minds and relationships. How can we include this in our meditation practice … avoid distraction … cultivate community?
January 2022
2021-04-12 Joy (Mudita) | Monday Night Dharma talk 58:35
Jack Kornfield
“Live in joy, in love, even among those who hate. Live in joy, in health, even among the afflicted. Live in joy, in peace, even among the troubled. Look within, be still. Free from fear and attachment, know the sweet joy of the way.” —The Buddha (Dhp 197-200, Byrom) From suffering, greed, hatred, and fear we can shift our whole identity and find well-being, release, & freedom. This is possible for us and those around us.
Spirit Rock Meditation Center
David says:
Joy can arise from our meditation practice. And then be experienced in many everyday moments. Yet when we are surrounded by news of suffering it is easy to miss joy. Opening to delight can deepen our practice and lighten our lives. A great talk to start 2022.
Talks listened to in 2021
December 2021
2017-06-08 The Wisdom of Nature Practice (Retreat at Spirit Rock) 57:46
Mark Coleman
Nature is a perennial teacher. This talk explores the natural wisdom and insight that arises when we spend time outdoors with mindful awareness.
Spirit Rock Meditation Center : Natural Liberation
David says:
Dharma translates to Natural Law. Meditating outdoors offers many ways to deepen our practice. We can observe the cycles of birth, change and death. The natural world can inspire awe and wonder. At the end of this recorded talk there are some questions from the audience. As the sound quality is not great at this point, you may like to spend the last 15 minutes meditating in the garden.
November 2021
2019-05-02 Internally & Externally – Holding It All 61:49 James Baraz Download Listen On the recent retreat James sat with Ven. Analayo, the monastic started out the last day’s teaching saying: “This morning I want to talk about climate change. Though some say this is not an appropriate topic for the Dharma Hall, in my view and in light of the crisis we are facing, there is no more appropriate or necessary topic.” We explore how Dharma principles can help each of us individually hold this unsettling situation as well as why they are the key to us waking up as a species. Insight Meditation Community of Berkeley : IMCB Regular Talks David says: Everyday we are reminded that we face an existential climate emergency. Time is running out. How can our meditation practice help us grasp this massive scenario? And move from helplessness to effective collaborative action. A relevant talk for November 2021.
October 2021
Zohar Lavie
Gaia House : Awakening in Daily Life; Cultivating Community
David says:
Zohar explores how to take your meditation practice beyond the cushion. Relationships are a great mirror. We can use them to extend our field of practice. A great opportunity as we return to face-to-face contact in Autumn 2021.
September 2021
2021-01-09 Beyond the Present Moment 64:07
Nathan Glyde
Being present is an essential component of the Dharma path. It feels good to bring body, heart, mind, attention, consciousness, all together in the present moment. But being present is not the goal of the Dharma. (Guided meditation and Dharma reflection from
Gaia House : Online Dharma Hall – Jan 2021
David says. “Meditation helps us live more fully in the here and now. As we move into the present moment, we notice impermanence. This is one of the fundamental truths of life. It brings many benefits including sensitivity and calmness. And even delight!
A great talk for our return to live 3D retreats.”
August 2021
2017-04-27 “Relaxing Into Being, the Unfolding Journey of Somatic Meditation” by Adam Baraz. 63:29
Adam Baraz
Insight Meditation Community of Berkeley : IMCB Regular Talks
David says:
Adam explores how relax into breathing and body sensations. This can be done sitting or lying on the ground. Shifting patterns of energy provide some interesting experiences and release tension. The talk includes short, guided meditations. A great talk for summer 2021!
July 2021
2020-02-17 Monday Night Dharma Talk – Gratitude and Empathy 57:51 Pawan Bareja Download Listen David says: Cultivating gratitude has multiple benefits. We can enjoy and appreciate what we already have now, rather than striving for future results. Pawan looks at how gratitude can help us cope with suffering and open our hearts. A great talk Summer 2021
June 2021
Clarity and Freedom Can Illuminate Our Relationships with Others (61:26) 2013-06 Insight Meditation Community of Berkeley : IMCB Regular Talks-13 Gregory Kramer Download Listen David says: Our relationships are essential to all aspects of our life. Gregory explores our need for closeness and separation. With the easing of the lockdown, we are returning to meeting people in the flesh. A great opportunity to look again at how we connect with others.
May 2021
Chas DiCapua 2019-07-29 Relationships (58:22) Insight Meditation Society – Retreat Center : Insight Meditation Retreat for 18–32 Year Olds How can we be in a healthy relationship with other human beings, and all of life? Download Listen David says: Our relationships create both joy and suffering. How can a meditation practice help cultivate better relationships? With the easing of the lockdown, we are returning to meeting people in person. A great opportunity to look at how we affect each other.
April 2021
Rick Hanson: Wholeness Allness Oneness (62:38)
Spirit Rock Meditation Center : Evolving Together: Mindfulness, Meditation and Modern Science Retreat 2016-04-15
Download
Listen
https://dharmaseed.org/talks/audio_player/312/33272.html
David says: Rick talks about the application of neuroscience to mediation practice. He explores the brain science behind the 4 factors of awakening. It’s great to hear his contemporary interpretation of traditional teachings. A fresh approach for Spring 2021.
March 2021
Faith: Trusting our Potential for Transformation (Retreat at Spirit Rock, 019-02-08) 59:53
Kamala Masters
The elements of faith in ourselves.
David says:
“What is faith? How to trust ourselves, our practice and our potential. Faith give us the courage to explore hidden parts of ourselves. And release those stuck habits. Kamala provides an insight full Dharma talk for Spring”.
February 2021
Tara Brach 2020-03-18 Facing Pandemic Fears with an Awake Heart (59:14)
While it’s natural to feel fear during times of great collective crisis, our challenge is that fear easily takes over our lives. This talk explores how the mindfulness and compassion of the RAIN meditation can help us find an inner refuge in the face of fear and deepen our loving connection with each other.
Insight Meditation Community of Washington DC
David says:
“The global pandemic continues to remain a threat in 2021. How can our meditation practice help us work with the fear and disruption? Tara guides us towards trusting our direct experience of breath and body. The talk includes a short, guided meditation. A great way to move towards Spring.”
January 2021
James Baraz
The Buddha was called “The Happy One”, but often there is more emphasis on overcoming suffering then going for true happiness. It is beneficial to see the teachings in the light of cultivating wholesome states as well – leading to the highest happiness of freedom.
Spirit Rock Meditation Center : Awakening Joy 2019-06-04 Why “Awakening Joy”? (Retreat at Spirit Rock) 55:42
David says:
“How to be happy? Not always easy during a global crisis. James explores how we can increase the joy in our daily lives. He suggests we simply notice then embody those fleeting moments of well-being. A good talk to launch a mid-pandemic 2021.”
Talks listened to in 2020
December 2020
Dharma talk for 5th December: 2014-09-25 The Story of Separation – The Knowing of Interdependence 51:52 by Kirsten Kratz
One of the pervading stories of our times is the story of separation. The teachings point to a very different understanding: interconnectedness and interdependence. How does the perspective/story we believe in effect our actions, intentions and the perception of us, others and the world? Which way of seeing do we wish to cultivate and give our energy to?
Gaia House : Living with Uncertainty – Knowing Freedom
David says:
“As we face growing personal and social challenges, we may feel isolated. But a deeper truth points to our fundamental affinity with all life. Our practice can help us to feel at home with this reality. Kirsten talks with her usual clarity and enthusiasm. A good talk for a mid-pandemic Christmas.
November 2020
2019-09-30 Insight and Resilience in Times of Change 68:21
Oren Jay Sofer
How can our spiritual practice be a source of healing and guidance in troubled times? The Buddhist path and its meditation practice offers a range of resources that can help us face challenges, personally and collectively.
New York Insight Meditation Center
David says:
“We are living in very challenging times experiencing radical and rapid change. With no end in sight. But we already have a meditation toolkit to help us cope. Oren explores how to remain resilient, calm, and compassionate. The talk is a bit longer, but adjust your listening time as appropriate for the day.”
October 2020
Jaya Rudgard 2015-05-23 59:14
59:14 Gratitude and Generosity
Gaia House: The Joy of Awakening
David says:
“How can we become more grateful ? How can our meditation practise help this ? By noticing deeply everyday moments we activate gratitude. Great for Autumn 2020!”
July 2020
2020-03-07 What does Freedom Look Like? – Freedom from Anxiety, Trusting Uncertainty and Change: Living the Practice Workshop, Part 5 62:42 Mark Nunberg
Download
Listen
https://dharmaseed.org/talks/audio_player/543/61219.html
Common Ground Meditation Center : Freedom from Anxiety, Trusting Uncertainty and Change: Living the Practice Workshop
David says:
“This year many aspects of the world we know have suddenly and radically changed. Anxiety is a natural biological response to uncertainty. But if we look closely constant change has always been a fact of life. Mark explores and answers questions on how we can use our practice to embrace (and even welcome) uncertainty. Wow!!”
June 2020
Living in Uncertain Times 2013-08-04 (59:09) Gaia House: A Voyage of Discovery
This talk explores what qualities of mind and heart we can rely on in face of uncertainty, using our ability and increasing capacity to be present to our experience as a powerful gateway.
David says:
“Today we are coping with unprecedented levels of uncertainty. All aspects of our lives have been dramatically and suddenly disrupted. The road ahead is unclear (and even the destination!). Kirsten explores how our practice can provide the road map. She talks with her usual passion and authenticity.”
May 2020
May’s talk was called Healing Trauma: The Light Shines Through the Broken Places (53:05) and is by Tara Brach. Most of us have encountered trauma either in our own direct experience or with someone in our immediate circle. This talk examines the shame and suffering that arise from trauma and how meditation practices can support a path to full spiritual healing. We focus on practices that help us access a sense of love and safety, and then increase our capacity to bring presence to the unprocessed, unlived life in the body. (Note: For many who suffer from PTSD, therapy is invaluable, and these practices are not considered as a substitute.) David says: “As we move deeper into the crisis, we will touch trauma in ourselves and others. Tara explores the how trauma changes the mind and body. And how meditation practice is valuable resource for its resolution.”
April 2020
April’s talk was called Addressing Coronavirus with a Dharma View (51:05) – Matthew Brensilver David adds: “This is a rare moment in history. As coronavirus spreads, much is being taken away from us. With uncertainty and fear all around, what is the point of continuing to practice meditation? Or is this an opportunity to see how interconnected we all are as we deepen our practice?”
March 2020
March’s talk was by Ann Cushman. It was called The Four Foundations of Creativity. (48:54) ‘It is an exploration of how mindfulness supports creative expression and how art-making can be mindfulness practice. This talk is from a retreat for painters and writers and was given at the Spirit Rock Meditation Center. David say’s “Anne describes how the foundations of meditation can also be applied to creative expression. Anne’s inspiring talk contains some lovely poetry readings. It helped me with my work as a painter. A great way to step into Spring”
February 2020
February’s talk was called Taking A Fresh Look at Life On Retreat – part 2 (53:55) and was given by Larry Rosenberg in 2008-06-23. Life on retreat; life back home. The same? Different? Perhaps there is just life- always. The Buddha’s Onapalda Sutta (King Pasensadi goes on a diet) was explored in detail regarding mindful eating as a wisdom practice. David say’s “Retreats are great. But what have they got to do with (real) life activities? How about simply eating with more attention. Larry is an entertaining and light-hearted speaker. A fab support for any of those 2020 resolutions.
January 2020
January’s was called Why “Awakening Joy”? The Buddha was called “The Happy One”, but often there is more emphasis on overcoming suffering then going for true happiness. It is beneficial to see the teachings in the light of cultivating wholesome states as well – leading to the highest happiness of freedom. Spirit Rock Meditation Center : Awakening Joy. David, a sangha member say’s “We all want to be happy. But true happiness is often elusive. How can we use our practice (& life) to cultivate joy? James, always an entertaining speaker, shows us how. You’ll have 2020 vision!
Talks listened to in 2019
December 2019
December’s talk was called The Spirit of Play in Dharma: Enjoying Your Meditation Practice: 56:24 and was given by Oren Jay Sofer (2018-07-19). As a Zen teacher of mine used to say, “Life… very serious joke.” Things can get really heavy sometimes – in life, and in contemplative practice. This talk explores the importance of finding some levity and enjoyment in our formal spiritual practice through the lens of play. Enjoy! Insight Meditation Community of Berkeley : IMCB Regular Talks. David say’s “Most of us have a strong work ethic. Society supports this. We may find we unknowingly apply this attitude to our meditation practice. Oren indicates how a quality of joyful play can be at the heart of our practice. A great way to welcome the Christmas season!”
November 2019
November’s talk was called The Benefits of Walking Meditation 64:38 and was given by Ariya B. Baumann. The practice of walking meditation is not to be underestimated. The benefits are numerous not only on the physical and mental level but also in facilitating deep liberating insights into the three general characteristics and the deathless. the talk was given in Perth, Australia : Retreat at Jhana Grove: June/July 2018 David, a sangha member says David say’s “Walking meditation often takes second place to sitting meditation. Yet it is a powerful and well-established practice. It helps to develop concentration while surrounded by sensory distractions. Perfect for real-life!”
October 2019
This month’s talk was given by Yanai Postelnik and is a reflection on the dharma of responding to the climate and ecological emergency with an open heart. It is called Love In The Time Of Extinction 62:43. It was given at Insight Meditation Society – Retreat Center : Mindfulness, Insight, Liberation: Insight Meditation Retreat for Experienced Students 2019-07-12. This talk was chosen by Lesley to correspond with the Bristol Extinction Rebellion protests in October.
September 2019
September’s talk looked at the tools that support meditation. The talk was given by Rick Hanson’s on the four core factors of awakening. He explained these with the latest neuroscience. By relating these somewhat esoteric factors to the everyday working of our brains, he makes them very attainable. The talk is called Nowness, Wholeness, Allness, Oneness. The talk was given at Spirit Rock Meditation Centre’s Evolving Together: Mindfulness, Meditation and Modern Science Retreat. It lasts for 62:38
August 2019
What is the role of metta meditation in relationship to the Vipassana practice? How do we take the practice home? On the cushion? Daily practice? What’s the role of gratitude in embracing all of life? August’s talk was called Embracing it all: taking the practice home with gratitude (58:53) and was given by Nikki Mirghafori at the Insight Meditation Society – Retreat Center : Metta: Lovingkindness Retreat. David, a sangha member says “Gratitude can be a powerful practice. Just noticing or writing down things to be grateful for makes people happier (and kinder). Niki explains with how to work with this powerful method. And how to take this practice home to enrich your life.”
July 2019
July’s talk was given by Tempel Smith and was called Meditative Steps in Mindfulness of Breathing – Anapanasati. In many discourses the Buddha gave very detailed instructions on how to develop Mindfulness of Breathing from our first awareness of breathing in and out through calming the mind into samadhi (concentration) and then steps to cultivate liberating insight. These 16 steps also include the cultivation of happiness and contentment as an aspect of the path to freedom. It was given at the Spirit Rock Meditation Center : February Monthlong. David, a sangha member says “Being aware of breathing is the core meditation technique … easy to describe … hard to stay with. Tempel explains with humour and insight how to work with this powerful method. He takes us step-by-step to a calmer and more centred place. Keep (noticing your) breathing!
June 2019
This month’s talk was given by Christiane Wolf and is called Shame, Self-compassion and the Body (57 mins). It was given at her retreat Finding Freedom in the Body at The Spirit Rock Meditation Center in September 2018. Awareness of the body can bring up strong emotions, like shame. Compassion and self-compassion are antidotes to shame. David says: “Shame is one of the most difficult feelings to be with. Even though it is a widely shared experience it often leaves us feeling isolated. Christiane talks in a lively and insightful way about this, disclosing her own experiences around her body image. She describes how body awareness and self-compassion offer a route through shame. This talk leads nicely on from last months on the inner critic.”
May 2019
May’s talk was given by Sally Clough Armstrong and is called Responding with Kindness. Many of us learn to be judgemental and critical, especially towards ourselves. Metta is a powerful practice to diminish and even transform the tendency towards judging. The talk was given at the Spirit Rock Meditation Centre and lasts an hour. David, from our group writes: This is a fascinating talk on developing Metta as an antidote to our critical thoughts. We tend to constantly criticise ourselves and pretty much everything around us. This tendency is so ingrained we barely notice we do it! Sally shows us how metta and mindfulness practice can reduce this tendency.
April 2019
April’s talk was given by Susie Harrington and is called Impermanence is a doorway to Freedom. It lasts 57 minutes. The Buddha taught that the recognition of arising and passing away (anicca) is the doorway to freedom. In this talk she explores impermanence and its relationship to dukkha. To let go of our argument with reality – with the way things are, to the nature of changing phenomena, opens to the possibility of ease and freedom:
“All things are impermanent. They arise, and they pass away. To live in harmony with this truth Brings great happiness.”
David, from our group writes: “Even though we all know that everything in life constantly changes, do we really get this? Susie explores how understanding this basic truth can dramatically improve our lives. She is a light hearted speaker who uses personal stories and poems to convey her message. Constant change is all around us, all we need to do is notice it.’
March 2019
March’s talk was given by Rick Hanson and is called The Neurology of Awakening Part One. It covers the relationship between the mind and brain; strengthening neural factors of mindfulness; the role of concentration in Buddhist practice and practical help from brain research for steadying and quieting the mind and bringing it to singleness. David says: “How can we deepen our experience while meditating? This talk introduces Rick’s latest workshop on this theme. His work on the intersection of meditation, neuroscience & personal development is both innovative and practical. It includes some guided practice which is optional.”
February 2019
February’s talk was given by Mark Coleman. It is called Taking your practice home. It explores how we integrate practice into daily life. The talk explores how the eight fold path and the five precepts support us in life. The talk was given at Spirit Rock Meditation Center: Natural Radiance: The Liberating Power of Awareness. It lasts for 56:40 minutes. David, from our group writes: A retreat can offer a refuge from daily life where we may experience some deep periods of calmness. But the real challenge is to maintain this amongst the many challenges of daily life. This follows our earlier talks on ethical living.
January 2019
January’s talk was given by Angie Boissevain and is called ‘Refrain from Intoxication’. It is the first talk in a six-week series titled “Ethics, Action and the Five Precepts”. Her talk addresses the fifth precept: refraining from intoxication. She discusses the impact of drug and alcohol use on relationships and how restraint can promote harmony. The talk was given on 7th July 2016 at the Insight Meditation South Bay Centre and lasts for 59:50 David, from our group, says: “The start of the year offers an opportunity to begin again. This could mean include having a “dry month”. Buddhism offers some recommendations on refraining from intoxication and other addictive behaviours. This follows our previous talks on ethical living.”
Talks listened to in 2018
December 2018
December’s recorded talk was given by Joseph Goldstein and is on ‘Right Speech’. David from our group who chose this talk says: “Buddhism offers some recommendations on ‘right speech’. It also suggests that practicing these is central to all aspects of our life. But applying right speech to our personal lives is not easy. How do we communicate with care, honesty & meaning? This follows our November talk on ethical living.” The talk was given at Insight Meditation Society – Forest Refuge : May 6th 2009 at IMS – Forest Refuge and lasts for 56:39.
November 2018
November’s recorded talk was given by Donald Rothberg. It is called Ethical Practice 1 – An Introduction. The talks explores the meaning of ethical practice – its relationship to meditation and wisdom practice, how it is more a training than a following of external principles, how there are individual, relational, and social dimensions to our ethical practice, and how it can deepen for us. There’s a brief overview of the five lay precepts and a taking of the precepts. David from our group chose this talk and says, “Buddhism offers 5 principles for an ethical life. It also suggests that practising these principles is as important as practising mediation. But applying ethics to our personal and social life often brings up many challenges.” The talk was given at Spirit Rock Meditation Centre on 01.10.14 and lasts for 58:11.
October 2018
During our past retreats people often report sleepiness and an over busy mind. Are these obstacles to true meditation? Or can we appreciate their real value and function. By simply noticing what is happening we can relax these energies. October’s talk was given by Pat Coffey and is called Challenging our energies: our organism loving itself. Pat writes: Survival warrants the arising of certain energies. They are not our enemies. If we treat them as such we are continuing the internal warfare and struggle. By seeing energies like lust, fear, hatred, worry, sleepiness and doubt as our organism loving itself we elicit self-compassion and understanding….the perfect healing energies and perspective to then move forward into greater ease and connection with all life. It was given at the Insight Meditation Community of Washington DC’s 2014 Spring retreat: Intimacy with life and lasts 60:12 mins.
September 2018
This month’s talk was called Is your meditation practice a circle or a line. It is given by Rebecca Bradshaw. It is given by Rebecca Bradshaw. One of our sangha Lesley says: I listened to this talk late one night while in my camper van in the Rockies. Given that at the time I was definitely practising in a ‘circle’, it gave me a lot to think about, especially how much of my/ our lives are lived in ‘lines’. Rebecca is an engaging, humorous and warm speaker and hopefully the talk will spark some useful reflections. The talk lasts for 60:58 and was given on 15.02.2017.
August 2018
This month’s talk was called ‘Embodied awareness’ and is given by Lila Kate Wheeler. The talk is about the importance of mindful awareness of the body. It was given on 11.02.17 at the Insight Meditation Society’s Retreat Centre. It lasts for 51:43.
July 2018
This month’s talk was given by James Baraz. It is called Titrating our Dukkha. James asks can meditation heal past traumas? What are the dangers of working directly with difficult emotions? James provides some helpful and practical suggestion on how to take it one step at a time. He provides a simple toolkit for healing traumas both big and small. Though mindfulness meditation instructions generally suggest paying attention to what is predominant, focusing on overwhelming emotions especially those rooted in trauma is often not beneficial. This talk, which includes the Buddha’s teachings on working with difficult emotions as well as theory from Somatic Experiencing (SE)—an approach to working with trauma—explores how to work with intense emotions by touching them a little at a time. The talk was given at Insight Meditation Community of Berkeley on 13.09.12. It lasts for 54:40.
June 2018
June’s talk looked at the tools that support meditation. We listened to Rick Hanson’s fast-paced talk on the four core factors of awakening. He explains these with the latest neuroscience. By relating these somewhat esoteric factors to the everyday working of our brains, he makes them very attainable. The talk is called Nowness Wholeness Allness Oneness. The talk was given at Spirit Rock Meditation Centre’s Evolving Together: Mindfulness, Meditation and Modern Science Retreat. It lasts for 62:38
May 2018
May’s talk was by Temple Smith. It is called Kindness, Harmlessness and Generosity. A meditation retreat is a great way to recharge our batteries. But retreat days are very different from our normal lives. This talk looks at how we can keep practicing at home while remaining compassionate with ourselves and others. Temple is a witty and entertaining speaker who draws on his personal experiences. The talk was given at Spirit Rock Meditation Centre’s July Metta Retreat on 21st July 2016. It lasts for 64:50 mins.
April 2018
April’s talk was a discussion between Ed Catmull of president of Pixar and Disney Studios and Vipassana meditation teacher Phillip Moffitt. They discuss working with creativity, intention and learning. They explore how mindfulness and Buddhist principles can be applied in two different organisations; Spirit Rock Meditation Centre & Pixar Studios. How can individual practice be integrated into an organisation? Can this build a culture that embraces learning and creativity?
March 2018
March’s recorded talk was by Catherine McGee is was great way to welcome the Spring. It is called Embodying the Heart of Wisdom. Catherine guides us into living more fully in the body. We often desire to be more in touch with our bodies, both in life and in practice. But this can be surprisingly elusive. In this inspiring talk Catherine points the way. There are some optional short guided exercises that help explore our relationship with our bodies. It was given at the Insight Meditation Society – Retreat Center’s New Year’s Retreat 2016.
February 2018
In February we had something different. In this recorded talk, Rick Hanson introduces his fast-paced workshop during this talk. It covers the relationship between the mind and brain; strengthening neural factors of mindfulness; the role of concentration in Buddhist practice and practical help from brain research for steadying and quieting the mind and bringing it to singleness.There are guided exercises on the factors that strengthen mindfulness. It includes current brain research into the benefits of meditation. Plus, lots of tips on how to develop concentration and compassion. A great way to move forward in 2018.’ It is called ‘The Neurology of Awakening’ and was given at Spirit Rock Meditation Centre.
January 2018
January’s recorded talk was January Living and given by Leela Sarti. The talk explores the nature of love and the implications of loving whatever arises. When we feel love for our own being we are also at the receiving end of our own emotional support and can begin to unravel self-judgements. What is the nature of the heart, beyond images and ideas? To open one’s heart may be the greatest contribution we can make to life on earth. ‘Leela talks with great depth and insight about living and practicing from the heart. She encourages us move away from sentimental ideas about love. And then explore how opening our hearts can change our lives. Sounds like a great way to start 2018!’
Talks listened to in 2017
December 2017
December’s recorded talk was by Joseph Goldstein. It is called Deepening Insight into Impermanence. It was given at Spirit Rock on 16th July 2017. Joseph talks with great authority and presence about impermanence. ‘Even though we all know that everything in life changes, do we really get it? He explores how insight in to this basic fact can dramatically improve our lives. Constant change is all around us, all we need to do is notice it.’
November 2017
November’s recorded talk was by Tempel Smith. It is called Developing Samadhi/Concentration with Metta (63:18) given at Spirit Rock on 10.07.2017. There are many beautiful reasons to develop loving-kindness meditation and one of them is deeper samadhi/concentration. By developing the Five Jhana Factors in Metta meditation we can come to know wholeness and focus within our own hearts, minds and bodies.’In this talk Temple explains how meditation improves concentration, particularly when doing loving-kindness meditation. We all have the innate ability to focus our minds. But we often feel distracted while meditating. Tempel explores how meditation helps concentration, even when we struggle with our monkey mind.’
October 2017
October’s recorded talk was by Mark Coleman. ‘Mark is an engaging speaker. Developing compassion for yourself and others in the midst of everyday challenges is a big ask! Mark explores Metta not only as a practice but as an attitude to life.’ Mark’s talk Path of metta explores the journey of the heart. What happens as we cultivate metta practice, both the obstacles, challenges, gifts and fruits?
September 2017
September’s recorded talk was ‘This is being known’ by Mark Numberg. 2017-06-04 This is Being Known 1:27:21 given at the Common Ground Meditation Centre
August 2017
August’s recorded talk was by John Peacock. It is called “What is in ‘The Present Moment'” It is an examination of what it means to be in the present moment and the content of that moment.
July 2017
July’s recorded talk was given by Tara Brach. It is called “Landlocked in Fur” – Three Domains of Formless Presence. ‘Tara explores with humour and insight how we can find the space behind our habitual behaviour. She brings this to life with poems and anecdotes. Some about cats! Tara writes: While we have evolved to experience a defining sense of separate self, our potential is to awaken to the formless dimension – the pure awareness is our shared source. This talk explores how we can undo the identification with thoughts, emotions and feelings that keeps us landlocked and unable to trust and live from our naturally loving and radiant essence.’ NOTE: beginning poem is “Landlocked in Fur,” by Tukaram, from “Love Poems From God: Twelve Sacred Voices from the East and West” (Ladinksy, 2002)
June 2017
This month’s recorded talk was given by Mark Coleman. It is called Mindfulness, Technology and Social Media. ‘This talk was selected after the sharing at end of the May retreat. People expressed their concerns about how digital technology is affecting their lives and practice. Mark explores the rapid changes caused by phones, email, social media, websites etc. He suggests how meditation can help us fully engage with technology yet remain present.’
May 2017
May’s recorded talk was called ‘Whole Life Practice’ by Tempel Smith. ‘Temple’s talk is about meditation in daily life. Retreats provide a temporary refuge, but the challenge is to apply what we learn in a wider world. Tempel describes with humour and insight how he returned to ordinary life after being ordained.’
April 2017
April’s talk was by Martin Alyward. It is called On Fluidity, Uncertainty and Inconceivabilit. ‘The talk explores bringing the fundamental truth of life’s fluidity, and the familiarity of teachings on impermanence, right into the heart of every-moment practice. David, who helps organise the Self Led Day Retreats says: Martin talks with great presence about dealing with life’s transitions. He encourages us to look at how we think about the past, present and future. I found this a very useful talk about everyday impermanence.’
March 2017
March’s talk was by Ann Cushman. It is called The Four Foundations of Creativity. ‘It is an exploration of how mindfulness supports creative expression and how art-making can be mindfulness practice.This talk is from a retreat for painters and writers. Anne describes how the foundations of meditation can also be applied to creative expression. Anne’s inspiring talk contains some lovely poetry readings. It helped me with my work as a painter.’ 48:54 Spirit Rock Meditation Center
February 2017
February’s talk was by Alan Lewis and was given at Gaia House on 01-02-2014 and is called The Compassionate Space On the world stage we are entering uncertain times. But uncertainty is a basic aspect of life. ‘Alan describes with humour and insight how we can grow to accept this. Compassion and creativity can then follow.’