In these seven short teachings, we learn how to cultivate mindfulness—the very heart of our practice. It’s the ability to keep the mind aware and centered in the present moment, knowing what’s going on. At the beginning it appears as just individual drops. Over time, however, these join together into a steady stream that brings clarity into our lives and minds, helping us to resolve any difficulties we may be dealing with. As we continue to cultivate mindfulness, both on our meditation cushion and throughout our day, it becomes a safe haven that we can always return to and abide in.
In this videoconference talk from 18 September 2020, Ajahn Anan discusses refuge.
One can read talk transcripts with Q and A here: https://watmarpjan.org/en/dhamma-reflections/
When untroubled and calm, the nature of the mind is like clear water. In this talk, Ajahn Anan speaks about how we can remove the coloring of mental impressions and defilements that “color” our heart.
From cultivating ethical action to strengthening the perception of inconstancy, Ajahn Anan describes the basic practices that lead towards realization.
In this videoconference talk from 11 September 2020, Ajahn Anan discusses the meaning of life. For what have we been born?
One can read talk transcripts with Q and A here: https://watmarpjan.org/en/dhamma-reflections/
In these five short teachings, Ajahn Anan talks about a side of meditation that is often neglected—using our minds’ activity to bring inner calm and direct knowledge into truth. Both the recollection of life’s impermanence and chanting are effective tools to cut off distracted thought. And with a clear mind we can examine what the Buddha called the ‘three characteristics of existence,’ thereby gaining true insight.
During the course of this talk, Ajahn Anan tells some stories from Ven. Ajahn Chah, and how he used his Zen-like wisdom to teach his disciples that it’s better not to attach.
Ajahn Anan talks on the importance of grounding our minds, both at work and on the meditation cushion. He then describes the recollection of emptiness and how it’s possible for us to remain at peace even during troubled times.
In this videoconference talk from 4 September 2020, Ajahn Anan discusses how to choose one’s friends in order to succeed in life and in Dhamma. Included in this talk are discussions on the qualities of good and bad friends, the goodness of one’s parents, a story of Ajahn Anan’s past, and more.
One can read talk transcripts with Q and A here: https://watmarpjan.org/en/dhamma-reflections/
If we try to force our minds to be a certain way, or hold high expectations, meditation can be a pretty stressful experience, can’t it? In these short teachings, we learn to bring a sense of acceptance and mindful knowing to our cultivation. We can also reflect on the Buddha’s beautiful qualities and the Four Sublime Abidings to allow the heart to relax and recharge.