Mindfulness is an approach to living that involves an open, active attention to the present moment in a non-judgemental fashion. In this way, we can observe our thoughts and feelings without becoming swept away by them. We can experience various thoughts and emotions, but they are not who we are. By being able to observe our thoughts …Read More
Turning a Liability into an Advantage
Dec 24, 2011
We all run into negative thought “loops” at times that are difficult to shake. Sometimes these negative thought loops can contribute to our suffering because the way we think affects the way we feel. For instance, incessantly thinking about a romantic relationship that went south can lead to strong feelings of sadness, anger, regret, and jealously (if …Read More
A Sure Way to Reduce Suffering in Life
Nov 14, 2011
Although I can’t claim that I’m Buddhist, I’m really drawn to Buddhist psychology, and I’ve read a number of books by the Dalai Lama. I count him among a short list of very influential people in my life. In one of his books, perhaps it was The Art of Happiness, he presents a simple (but not necessarily …Read More
The Keys to Being a Good Parent
Nov 6, 2011
As parents, we all try to do our best to do a good job. But with thousands of books on the topic of parenting as well as countless articles in popular magazines and periodicals, sometimes it is difficult to know how to be a good parent. Should we be more strict? More lenient? Use time-outs? …Read More
Mindfulness and Being Nonjudgemental
Jul 11, 2011
In the previous post, I briefly discussed how mindfulness involves being nonjudgmental. In a manner of speaking, this is impossible. We are constantly making judgements: What do I want to eat? What do I want to wear? What TV show do I want to watch? Which friend do I want to try to hang out …Read More
No Time to Meditate? Here’s an Easy Solution!
Jul 5, 2011
Meditation has immeasurable benefits – decreasing stress, improving well-being, reducing cardiovascular disease, and so on. The society we live in seems so fast-paced sometimes that the idea of sitting down to meditate for 15-30 minutes a day seems out of reach. Ironically, many of the other things that keep us so busy that we can’t …Read More
Being Positive in Relationships
May 30, 2011
Researchers have found that most of our happiness comes from our relationships – around 70%. Thus, it is in our best interest, as well as the interest of others around us, to develop and maintain positive relationships. It is truly a win-win scenario. Researchers in psychology and related fields have found that in order to …Read More
“The Roots of Buddhist Psychology” by Jack Kornfield (Audiobook Recommendation)
May 2, 2011
I recently completed that audiobook The Roots of Buddhist Psychology by Dr. Jack Kornfield, who is a Buddhist psychologist. Dr. Kornfield is highly regarded author and lecturer who has been a Buddhist practioner since the late 1960s. He has lived and studied in Thailand, Burma, and India throughout various times of his life, so you …Read More
Ways to Battle the Holiday Blues
Dec 18, 2010
The holidays are a difficult time for many people. Many people struggle with depression, stress, loneliness, and feelings of resentment during the holidays. If you are one of those people, you are not alone, and there are things you can do to help yourself feel better. Here are five ways that can help lift your …Read More
Powerful Song
Dec 9, 2010
I found this song and video very powerful and moving. Austin band American Graveyard is communicating with their music the frustration many of us are feeling about the state of the economy and the many injustices in our society. Art and creative expression can be a very powerful and healing way to transform and communicate …Read More