thought transformation

Teachings on lojong or thought training techniques to train the mind to turn difficult circumstances into opportunities for spiritual growth and awakening.

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Woman meditating in a camper.
Three Principal Aspects of the Path

Taking and giving

The taking and giving meditation, or tonglen, reverses our usual attitude of placing ourselves first…

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Boys at the morning prayer in a monastic school in Myanmar.
New to Buddhism

Advice for newcomers to the Dharma

Tips on how to act in Dharma centers. Figuring out what to study and practice.…

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A blue and red peace sign painted on a rock.
Transforming War and Terrorism

Responding to war with peace

How to work with disturbing emotions that arise in response to a contemporary war.

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Monkey swinging from branch to branch.
Mindfulness

Taming the monkey mind

Honest recognition of our thoughts increase the courage to practice the Dharma.

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Young woman meditating outside under a tree.
Cultivating the Four Immeasurables

Taking and giving: instruction and guided meditation

Explanation of the taking and giving meditation for developing love and compassion, followed by a…

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A peace sign made of flowers over the 'Imagine' John Lennon memorial in Central Park.
Transforming War and Terrorism

Peace and justice after September 11

Dealing with fear and moving forward with compassion after the September 11, 2001 attacks on…

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An old woman sitting on the floor chanting with the mala on her hand.
Prayers and Practices

The purpose of rituals and chanting

Some questions and answers about the meaning and purpose of rituals and chanting in Buddhist…

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Photo of woman lying in bed, looking sad.
Fear, Anxiety, and Other Emotions

Dealing with depression

How putting our life into perspective through spiritual practice can help with depression.

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Cover of the book 'Healing Anger' by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Transforming War and Terrorism

Healing anger in times of conflict

A commentary on Healing Anger by His Holiness the Dalai Lama offers direct advice on…

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Abbey statue of Samantabhadra.
Texts to Recite and Contemplate

The King of Prayers

An introduction to, and the full text of, this inspiring prayer that can fill our…

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Medicine Buddha in a painted representation of the universe.
Medicine Buddha Weeklong Retreat 2000

Contemplating the Medicine Buddha vows

How thinking about the bodhisattvas' promise to benefit sentient beings puts our mind into their…

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The audience standing with palm's together at Kreta Ayer People's Theatre, Singapore.
Prayers and Practices

Abbreviated recitations

Recitations to prepare the mind for meditation, to make it receptive for transformation and attaining…

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