#buddhism at its core is about helping beings

[river-in-the-woods]

Friendly reminder that Buddhism is a religion.

It has a philosophy, which many choose to learn and follow without taking part in the religious aspects.

Nonetheless it has all the characteristics of a religion:

The veneration of powerful entities - Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, Dharmapalas

A rich collection of symbols, folklore, and cosmology

Temples, shrines, holy places and holy statues

Sacred days (e.g. Buddha and Bodhisattva birthdays)

Prayers, ceremonies, ritual tools, devotional practices

Sacred texts and scriptures (sutra, dharani)

Spiritual cultivation (meditation, sadhana, mantra recitation)

A set of tenets and teachings (5 precepts, eightfold path, etc)

Several classes of spirit beings (devas, yakshas, gandharvas, dakinis, pretas and more)

Several schools/divisions (Mahayana, Theravada, Vajrayana, Zen, Chan... to name a few)

Both exoteric and esoteric practices

A clergy - individuals trained and ordained to serve the community

Spiritual authority - gurus/lamas authorised to teach and initiate

[imustbenuts]

theres a few ??? thing going on in trigun stampede that's explicitly japanese/sino-ish in culture but im entirely not sure what to make of it. 3 things.

Knives' birthname being settled as Kni/Nai,

JuLai's emblem symbolism,

and the Buddha Thread??? thing in ep 11 10

Knives' birthname is Kni and hm! ...無い?

this is specifically a stampede thing. nightow didnt give him this Kni name in his work, so i can only chalk this up to the stampede staff's deliberate decision. if you render it into japanese, it'd be Nai, and the immediate word i can think of is... 無い. meaning, Nothing, or Without.

it fits rather well considering stampede has officially placed an emphasis on his obsessive love towards his brother on his bio on their official site:

my TL:

Vash's twin brother. Possesses a cold and merciless personality. Filled with a hatred for humans, he masterminds an organization with a plan to massacre the entire human species. With abilities beyond human understanding, he has the power to destroy entire planets. He greatly loves his only younger twin brother, Vash to an obsessive degree.

interestingly, the word used for the obsessive love here specifically is 執着 shuuchaku, which has roots/association with the word Abhinivesha. from what i understand it is a mental state, a fear of death, and a desperation to cling onto life so much one becomes ignorant and causes their own suffering. and ignorance is another big core of what makes Knives' character tick.

so i feel like this has some pointers towards Knives, or even child Kni being nothing without his younger brother. (or it could just be a simpler play on the word naive lmao)

meanwhile for Vash there's not really anything japanese that jumps out at me, but some have pointed out his name sounds like the french word Vashe, used for female cattle. extremely passive and born for consumption and theres a lot to dissect in that direction but im not going there! his name is Knife and his brother is a cattle there's catholicism may your brain go brr.

theres more to the nothingness concept in buddhism that doesnt put it squarely in a negative category but lets talk about buddhism later. next:

JuLai's emblem

stared at this for a few seconds and yelled fuck me. this represents the twins, AND its the broken yin yang symbol:

:). hey look at that female thing popping up again--

Knives is evidently the light Yang, and Vash is the dark Yin. ngl this daoist thing is somewhat sexist but lets brush that over 2 thousand year old aspect aside for this post. for stampede's case we can clearly see what theming is going on especially for those in the know of the original work.

Knives is hella assertive to the point of echoing fascist eugenics nonsense, and Vash has that nurturing instinct that seems to pop in whenever there's a human child or people who needs help.

interestingly the planet No Man's Land has too much fugging sun and is too hostile for human life. to survive people have to live in the shade and turn to plants for counters to the harsh, hot celestial sun. so here if Knives is being the sun, hes also being hostile to human life, and meanwhile the feminine looking plants and Vash's personality plus actions are the only thing giving these people at chance at life. (also vash has the power of Dark Matter or something)

obviously, just like JuLai's broken symbol, the balance is completely and utterly out of whack. in daoism a broken balance is thought to cause a lot of suffering. in the finale, Vash doesnt have a single speck of white on him, and Knives doesn't have a single speck of black. this means there isn't a balance and they cant come to an agreement at all.

im gonna also point out here that vash's idea of co-existence even if accepted wouldnt be a permanent solution due to the dependents having limited lifespan. so through this lens, stampede seems to be saying that neither twin's ideas are really effective long term solution, tho Knives is completely unacceptable due to obvious genocidal reasons.

Buddha Thread

studio orange whaaat are you guys cooking over there... ok so. in ep 11, Knives drops Vash into the uhhh The Hell Pool, and Vash tries to get out of it with his wire and hangs for a bit. then we get a scene like this:

Knives proceeds to cut Vash's thread and he drops into The Hell Pool. and then the metaphorical SA scene happens.

i call it Buddha Thread but this can also be known as The Spider's Thread. there exists a story of The Spider's Thread that's very Japanese-Buddhist and well known over there.

the gist of this story is that Buddha lowers a single spider thread to a sinner in the deepest hell as a lifeline to get out, bc this heavy sinner had done a singular good deed of saving a spider he was about to crush with his foot. however, the thread is broken as a result of the sinner's selfishness yelling for the other sinners below him to let go, claiming this thread was his and his alone. the sinner having climbed halfway upwards the thread after great effort plunges back into the pits of hell. buddha having watched all of this reacts with sadness, and the days in paradise carry on as per usual.

and. digest that for a second. and then refer back to Knives and The Fall and this scene that plays later, when Vash's mind wipe begins proper:

fuck. me. knives is framed as a self proclaimed god in the loudest ways on multiple levels.

while these 3 aspect i just broke down explaining do not exist at least overtly in the original trigun, i thought it would be interesting to chew on in light of the overwhelming catholicism existing in the story.

there's some themes im also picking up from the original trigun that might be rooted in either buddhsim or japanese culture such as: the undeniable truth that yearning and hunger is part of the human living experience and to deny it is to deny living. but im not sure what to make of it bc A) not explicitly framed or explored as a buddhsim/japanese idea thing and B) catholicsm obv is the overwhelming theme of the entire work

idk what the heck studio orange is cooking exactly but. hm.

[talonabraxas]

Matrix Buddha

Buddhism’s Path to World Peace: More Than Just Wishful Thinking

In Today's World, with its rising number of Wars and regional conflicts, it often feels like we are standing on the edge of another global catastrophe, another World War. As tensions rise, the call for World Peace grows louder, but simply wishing for peace is not enough.

As Buddhist practitioners, we are encouraged to look deeper - to work at Individual Levels, to Transform ourselves and, through that, help transform the world.

The Buddha taught that Peace begins within the Mind of the individual. In times of crisis, we might feel powerless to make a difference. But Buddhism reminds us that cultivating Inner Peace through practices like Mindfulness and Meditation is the first step toward creating Outer Peace. Just as a calm lake reflects the sky clearly, a calm Mind reflects a peaceful heart, and that heart can influence those around.

Mindfulness, for example, helps us to be aware of our thoughts and emotions. It teaches us to pause before reacting, which can prevent escalation in personal conflicts and, on a larger scale, foster understanding in global disputes.

Compassion, too, is at the core of Buddhism. The Buddha's teachings urge us to extend Love and Understanding especially toward those we perceive as "enemies".

If enough individuals are transformed to practice Compassion, peace can spread like ripples in a pond. The transformation of society, and then the World, therefore, begins with the transformation of the Individual. Instead of thinking we are too small to create change, we should remember that every drop of water contributes to filling the ocean.

In short, the Buddhist approach to World Peace is not about grand gestures or revolutions etc. but about steady, personal change and Individual Transformation. Each one of us has the power to contribute to a more peaceful world through Mindfulness, Compassion, and inner transformation.

Together, we can lay the foundation for a humanity rooted in understanding and kindness. -Buddha Beings

[trainer-sean]

DCxDP Prompt: Vast Supernatural Au

What If, The Infinite Realms Was More Then Ectoplasm? What If The Fenton's Only Acknowledged Ectoplasm And Obsessively Denied The Existence Of All The Other Types Of Energy And Material In The 'Ghost Zone'? What If Danny Wasn't Just Exposed To Ectoplasm, But Mana, Yoki, Spiritual Energy, Etc. What If He Started Cycling Out The Ectoplasm, And The Other Energys Became More Dominant? What If.... Danny Became A Deity?

Basically this is just a Au where the Ghost zone, is really the Infinite Realms, which encompasses multiple dimensions, Cosmic Forces, and Energys. So Danny got Flooded with and Fused with Mana, Developing a Magical Core, Yoki, effectively becoming a Yokai, Spiritual energy, becoming effectively a Nature Spirit. Due to his actions and being a hero, people start looking up to him, much praise and gratitude is shown to him. Due to this, the Yoki and Mana in his body effectively pick it up and steadily start shifting him from a simple Yokai, to a Kami.

But of course, he lacks a Shrine, and therego, cant fully transition, which is a Irritating process..

The few Gods and Kami that sense Danny's developing Divinity and actually care that its happening. (Look, there are always new gods and deitys forming, both from the living who have passed away, and from the imaginations of the living and dead. The Shinto, Norse, and Greeks are prime examples due to having them be made up of populations of God's and goddesses, who have children with each other. The few that Due, come to see the situation, on why a Kami was developing in America, and find a human with Ectoplasm, Yoki, Mana, and Spiritual energy saturating his body, practically a Partially dead Hanyo whos possessed his own dead body. The Ectoplasm is deteriorating and the Yoki is becoming more dominant. He lacks a Shrine. There are a pair of human Scientists who are clearly his parents who seem to obsessively believe that not only is he a ghost, but that ghosts are emotionless and evil, yet dont seem to acknowledge that the one they are shooting at is their son. Kami from Japan reach out to Princess Diana to help with the situation, something Athena and Artemis also want.

Clockwork is Kronos, but he's left his mortal flesh. He tells Danny of what he truly is and what he's becoming, revealing that Ghosts are barely a 10th of what exists in the infinite realms. He tells Danny how he needs a Shrine to properly ascend to Kamihood, but also that he needn't worry about losing his Humanity when he does. Danny himself can't make the Shrine, but Sam and Tucker can!

His appearance as a 'ghost' has changed, his Hazmat suit has shifted to a somewhat Shinto outfit thats a mix with his previous Hazmat suit, and a deterorated Hagoromo on his shoulders, showing he's reaching the rank of Kami. People see his changes and do research, and learn of Shinto and Buddhism practices, and Spiritualism in general. This leads to a good few in the community of Amity to making Phantom a small Shinto style Shrine. Cujo, who isn't a ghost dog, but is a Inugami here, ends up taking Residence at the Shrine, which steadily makes him change into a Komainu. Also, multiple Cats start showing up and living at the Shrine, something Danny actually likes alot, to the point that he, as Phantom, starts building some cat houses around his Shrine.

Over time, as Jack and Maddie start struggling to figure out what Phantom is now, as before he showed up on their ghost equipment, but now he doesn't. Jack starts seeing the bigger picture, looking and analyzing the different energys in the Infinite Realms that he previously refused to believe were there. He realized, why were they trying to apply the rules of their dimension on a dimension clearly completely different from theirs? Why were they refusing to apply the theory that the interaction of two or more different realitys would require a completely foreign set of laws to try and analyze it all. Why were they trying to apply the laws of Physics to explain magic? And like that, his obsession was resolved, he didn't have the insane impulse to blame ghosts for odd things or to shoot at anything abnormal the second he saw it, suddenly, his issues were resolved in an instant. The ectoplasm, they were so contaminated in it that their obsessions had bound to it and formed into a core that made them impulsively driven by them. And with his Obsession resolved, the ectoplasm had dissolved. Jack could now clearly see the near identical appearance between Danny and Phantom, there voices and Mannerisms, the similar time frame from the incident with the Portal with Danny and the appearance of Phantom.

Danny has also been developing Cat-like traits from his act of building cat homes around his Shrine, effectively making the cats worship him.

The ghosts that originally appeared have slowly begun to stop, the few that still do being those that lived in Amity before they died.

Danny has a number of Divine Affinity due to how he formed. He is a Kami of Cats, Protection, kindness, winter, safety, and Star gazing.

When he properly becomes a Kami, its a rather public event, some ancient ghost attacks, sensing a Kami forming in America. The Fentons are scanning through out the fight, Jack actually switches on the scanners for the other typs of energy, which angers Maddie because she is still in Aggressive denial about them. Phantoms Ectoplasm Readings are fluctuating, as if trying to keep itself active as its being burned away. While Two of the other reading show spikes and growing while the Ancient talks down to him as it pummels him, things like 'YOU THINK YOU CAN PROTECT THEM?!' 'I'LL BE SURE TO MAKE THEM SUFFER AS WELL FOR MAKING YOU FORM!'. While everyone is watching helplessly, they pray and hope for him to win, to protect them. Suddenly, everything stops, and Phantom, Screams! In a burst of power, all Ectoplasm readings die on Phantom, while one of the others, rises and stabilizes, becoming the dominant energy. Hovering in a Crater, stands Phantom, now dressed in Traditional male Kimono, a Hagoromo proudly floating on his shoulders, at his feet, a pair of red painted wooden wheels with what appear to be clouds flowing from the axel holes. In his left hand, a Glave. His hair a foot longer, snowflakes gently appearing and falling around him.

He then pummels the ancient, and destroys it with ease. Maddie is having a panic attacks and is struggling to understand the situation. Phantom is standing there looking over himself, trying to understand himself what just happened. Maddie sees a chance, she grabs the Fenton Fermos, runs up on Phantom, opens it, activates it, and- doesn't suck up Phantom, only the remaining ectoplasm from the Ancient. It doesn't work of Phantom, he doesn't have ectoplasm anymore, hes not, in anyway, a ghost anymore.

@stealingyourbones @im-totally-not-an-alien-2

[santoschristos]

“Tantra is the natural way; the loose and the natural is the goal. You need not fight with the current; simply move with it, float with it. The river is going to the sea so why fight? Move with the river, become one with the river: surrender. Surrender is the keyword for Tantra; will is the keyword for Yoga. Yoga is the path of will; Tantra is the path of surrender.

“That’s why Tantra is the path of love – love is surrender. This is the first thing to understand; then Tilopa’s words will become very, very crystal-clear. The different dimension of Tantra has to be understood – the vertical dimension, the dimension of surrender, of not fighting, of being loose and natural, relaxed – what Chuang Tzu calls, “Easy is right.” With Yoga, difficult is right; with Tantra, easy is right.

“Relax and be at ease, there is no hurry. The whole itself is taking you on its own accord. You need not make any individual striving, you are not asked to reach before your time, you will reach when the time is ripe – simply wait. The whole is moving; why are you in a hurry? Why do you want to reach before others?” --Osho, Tantra: The Supreme Understanding, Talk #6

What Is Tantra & Tantric Sex?

Tantra and tantric sex are spiritual practices that originated in Hinduism and Buddhism, but have evolved into a broader movement that encompasses various cultures and beliefs. At its core, tantra is about promoting spiritual and physical union through meditation, yoga, and other rituals. Tantric sex is an extension of this philosophy, and aims to enhance sexual experience and intimacy through techniques that focus on energy, sensuality, and connection.

Tantric Sex

Tantric sex is a form of sexual expression that draws on the principles of tantra. The goal of tantric sex is to enhance sexual experience and intimacy by focusing on energy, sensuality, and connection.

Tantric sex is characterized by slow, intimate movements and extended periods of stimulation and arousal. It places a strong emphasis on the role of touch and sensuality, and encourages partners to explore each other's bodies and connect on a deeper level.

There are many techniques used in tantric sex, including deep breathing, eye gazing, and body-to-body contact. Tantrics believe that these techniques can help to build energy and connection between partners, and that this energy can then be used to enhance the sexual experience.

[likealittleheartbeat]

hiyya!

this is something i've seen come up quite often in recent discourse about zuko, and about how he doesn't truly learn to let go of his prejudices linked to his upbringing by the final.

he is often criticized (i think rightfully so) for his treatment of aang in 'the southern raiders' ep: even though his actions may be fuelled by his desperation to make up with katara, and his own feelings of grief and anger, he is still too dismissive of (or one might say offensive towards) aang's advice and, consequentially, the philosophy of the air nomads.

in the final coronation scene, we see him acknowledge the fact that "the avatar is the real hero", and he swears to rebuild his nation "in love and peace", which definitely shows a fundamental change in his values. but. i wonder if he has matured enough to be able to respect aang as not just the avatar, but as an air nomad as well; if he has learned to appreciate not only his heroism, but his philosophy too.

i thought i'd ask your opinion on this since i really enjoy your reading of zuko and aang's relationship. how do you reconcile zuko's often dismissive nature with seeing him as aang's best friend and soulmate, the one who should be the most understanding of him?

thank you if you end up answering this, i'll really appreciate it!:)

I just think a reading of zuko as not fully reformed by the end is...just...a really bad faith take of a show all about hope and belief and (dare I say it?) FAITH.

What the Southern Raiders episode shows and is supposed to show regarding both Zuko and Katara in relation to Aang is NOT their total disregard for his culture but their need to experience and appreciate values of his culture for themselves, which is a core tenet of, at least, Zen Buddhism, but I'm pretty sure it's pretty significant to other Buddhisms and Taoism. Aang points to the moon of forgiveness, but if they were to simply take him for his word, they would have only seen his finger pointing and never have seen the moon he had hoped to show them by pointing towards it.

There is this kind of analysis that people do of ATLA and plenty of other shows that focuses on the dialogue and plot-explicit actions in a series with a literal and almost mathematical approach, ignoring the emotional beats, the narrative arcs, the figurative meanings, and the poetic experiences the show invokes. Often these kind of takes are sociological (focused on societal organizational structures and the identities they impose) and/or super rationalist (interested in the continuities and reasoning within a show as if a work of art and its characters must behave realistically). And they tend to be weaponized to denigrate a show or character (although both critique strategies could be and have been used to praise). The issue with both being used exclusively or even in tandem is how intellectual they are. They disregard emotional experiences for characters, for creators, and for the audience. I'm not inviting people to flip entirely to an emotional response--clearly I prefer a pretty intellectual approach myself. But a path that can bring in the heart and the mind into an analysis that is generous and wise ought to be the end goal, not necessarily of a single piece of writing but of your overall collaborative contribution to the analysis.

To get back to your question now, it's pretty hard for me to see Zuko, as the fucking emperor at his own coronation, saying that he should not be celebrated but instead giving the glory over to "the Avatar" as anything other than Zuko putting the value of humility so important to the air nomads into practice. And then we see him accepting help from Mai to put on his robe, serving tea to the gaang in Ba Sing Se (which demonstrates the reopened connections with the other nations), and naming his friendship with Aang, not the Avatar but Aang! Idk what more people want.

I have a guess, though. People want perfection. They want Zuko to jump beyond the limits of his narrative and history to be a political ideal that will never falter, that can say all the right words (somehow in the last five minutes of the series), that won't provide the springboard for the modernity that comes about in Korra. They want his "redemption arc" to be about "redemption" in the Christian sense, the deliverance from sin and its consequences into a post-show afterlife of purity. The purpose of the Avatar and the lesson Aang both learns and teaches his friends is about aiming for balance and the value of humanity. That is the key value he brings from the air nomads, and it's the one Zuko has integrated for himself by the end of the series. It doesn't mean he did everything right by Aang once he joined the gaang, only that he stopped demanding perfection from himself and others, easing the frustration and self-hatred that had plagued him. He also doesn't need to blindly agree with Aang or Katara's ideas just because they were marginalized by his people (and him directly lol), but Zuko's field trips are all about him observing and supporting others, which requires him to accept that he has more to learn and that's okay.

Humility is so unpopular in the discourse where I'm at rn because it's seen as self-effacement, when, in fact, humility has more traditionally been understood as acknowledging and expressing gratitude for the people, circumstances, and gifts that have allowed you to be in the position your in and have the chance, skill, and responsibility to act. Aang expresses humility in the choices he makes to acknowledge his culture. Zuko does this as he acknowledges Aang and the guiding force of the Avatar.

[tanadrin]

went back and listened to the episodes on david bokovoy's personal experience with religion, and man, it's funny just how different the stuff that people twig on in their experience of faith is--for bokovoy, even as a scholar of biblical criticism, it really isn't the truth claims of the LDS church that were ever a problem for him. like his academic career definitely primed him to move from a more orthodox, small-c conservative theology to a more expansive one (and he remains a pretty spiritual guy in general from the sound of it), but the thing that really started to fuck him up was the church's insistence on beating the anti-gay-marriage drum, starting with proposition 8, and culminating in the 2015 declaration about the children of gay parents not being welcome in the church unless they denounced them.

and it's a little infuriating to listen to him talk about how he feels about the LDS church after all of that--this whole "the leadership are good people deep down, i just disagree with them on this." like, come on, dude. i get that you're a straight guy whose experiences with mormonism have been generally very positive, but you are also self-aware enough to talk with compassion about LGBT people, about the experience of having a gay daughter, about the way in which people raised in Mormonism who are gay or even just a little bit nonconformist in some aspect of their life can have a really brutal time of it, and yet you cling to this idea of the organization as having some noble core, some inherently good quality that is only failing in its ultimate expression. he even talks about the experience of watching a movie that dramatizes the way different faith leaders came together during the civil rights movement, and having a moment of acute discomfort remembering that at the same time the leadership of the LDS church was still racist as hell in its teachings and policy

like, you should not be afraid to admit that the LDS church fucking sucks! it's always fucking sucked! most organized religion fucking sucks, and the organized religion that doesn't fucking suck has mostly gotten there by virtue of progressives splintering off and forming organizations that retain only a general flavor of the awful bullshit they grew up with and none of the core dogmas. i don't know of a human organization from the beginning of time that rigidly patrols boundaries of identity politics and creates structures of authority based on spirituality that didn't rapidly collapse into tyranny, a grift, or both, except the ones that were already that from the beginning.

and this, i suppose, is my disappointment with even the very open-minded progressives that John Dehlin interviews, which is that they want to redeem an organization that i think is fundamentally unredeemable. no particular shade to mormonism here--I think the Catholic church is also fundamentally unredeemable. hell, if i knew more about tibetan buddhism, i'd probably think that whole hierarchy was fundamentally unredeemable as well. the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints cannot become progressive on LGBT issues and honestly pursue truth and cease to misrepresent its history and spend its money on helping the poor and needy instead of conservative political campaigns and exploiting eighteen year olds to do morally questionable missionary work in third world countries without ceasing to be the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and its leadership knows this. for the exact same reason the Roman Catholic church can't go "lol you know what, our bad, this Pope guy isn't all that he's cracked up to be" and remain the Roman Catholic church.

i mean ultimately bokovoy doesn't go to church anymore; he says that the 2015 declaration was kind of the straw that broke the camel's back, and even if it was revoked tomorrow, it's not like he'd start going back. i assume he's not tithing anymore either. and he seems like a generally very gentle soul who wants to see the best in people, and i don't want to get on his case too much about that, because i admire that. but man, i think it's kind of disappointing to watch someone as apparently smart and compassionate as he is work himself into knots to excuse the behavior of the leadership of an organization like that when the simplest explanation is just that these people are assholes on a fundamental level and always have been.

[system-of-a-feather]

Sorry for all the Tulpa-discourse lately, this is more of a Buddhist ramble / discussion than syscourse but ya know

It's been on my mind a lot between it being in syscourse circles heavily and the fact that I'm actually currently on a system-designated theraputic homework assignment to reconnect with Buddhist concepts and to incorporate it into my self care routine so I can get back to my baseline after doing something of a survival mode to help balance out XIV being in borderline-crisis lately resulting in my burn out

I'm (as Riku as a part) actually usually very hesitant to talk about much of my cultural and personal experiences and AAPI-rooted parts of my life because of old system dynamics, persecution, and a lot of other things that make me very anxious and prone to fawning when me existing in a space I am involved in is at all challenged which is largely why I leave it to XIV to voice it for me since he also is the guy that keeps me from falling into old dynamics. (<- literally is the person who thought I was *checks notes* faking being asian like that is a possible thing let alone something I thought LONGER than me faking DID)

So honestly, its kind of a bit cathartic occasionally to actually have a sense of self and security enough to have the balls to actually defend myself in terms of this sort of crap and assert that I actually, ya know, have an experience in life. So as much as I typically hate the negativity and contention that bringing this stuff up brings, it's honestly theraputic and part of me expressing a valid part of my existence and self - so with XIV's nudging I tend to let myself have that space.

With all that said, I wanted to bring up a discussion point and correction point now that I'm not genuinely and authentically triggered about racism, I think a thing I do want to comment on in regards to the rhetoric on the tulpa topic that anti-tulpa-term people get wrong when talking about Buddhism and """""""tulpamancy""""""" is that Buddhism is not a closed culture or closed practice and stating that does a disservice to the group as well; albeit its the lesser of two wrongs by a LONG shot so I shirk it off as a "to get to later" point

But Buddhism is incredibly open to anyone interested on engaging with it and its part of why - when I specifically talk about the critiques of """"""Western Tulpamancy"""""" in terms of Buddhism I try to remind myself to desalinate between "westerner" and "white". There are many many many white Buddhists - as there are many black, latin, native, Middle eastern, etc Buddhists as well.

In some cases and for some people, Buddhism is a religion and/or spirituality, for others it's more of a way of life / philosophy. Tibetan Buddhism, as I know it as a non-Tibetian Buddhist, is a lot more on the religion side of things which is a different topic I honestly am under knowledgeable to comment on - but overall the thing that ties a lot of Buddhism together is the core and underlying principles of acceptance, letting things go, connecting to the greater world, and just general enlightenment as a means of finding peace.

Myself, and a lot of Buddhists, gladly encourage people to look into Buddhists practices and principles and ideology because its honestly extremely healing and regardless of if you are SUPER into it and go become a monk or what not or if you just dabble in it, so long as you do it respectfully and understand your biases and genuinely have GOOD RESPECTFUL intent and an interest on understanding it more, its an amazing and really welcoming thing to get involved in.

The thing all the 'pro-tulpas' quote on the Dalai Lama is honestly entirely true. Almost everyone could benefit from the practices and principles found within Buddhism.

That is to say however, that there is a large difference between spending a day or two at a monastery and learning more about the culture and the ideas of Buddhism and integrating them into your life and just grabbing this Really Cool and Quirky High Level Principle / Ritual / Practice of a Specific Typically Very Dedicated Version of Buddhism and ignoring EVERYTHING ELSE about Buddhism and saying "this aspect, this aspect I like and I'm going to completely warp it how I like it while calling it and/or referencing it in terms of Buddhism to make it look intellectual and enlightened for me to be involved in it."

I've seen it said in some Buddhist communities and discussions regarding the more ritual and involved aspects of Buddhism - specifically in regards to the Mahayana approaches - that a lot of the practices and rituals when used inappropriately or unguided can be "dangerous" with danger in this sense being a worsening of the individuals conditions resulting in an increase in a lot of the core things almost all versions of Buddhism considers unhealthy and unideal such as increase in conflict, desire, and disconnect from the greater world and thus generally more suffering.

And on that front, while not being of the Mahayana school of thought and as a result not really believing so much in bodhisattvas, I can - from my personal view and perspective - entirely understand how frustrating it is to see a term often sighed with "buddhists roots" be used in a way that - in my opinion - almost exemplifies the exact opposite of what I understand to be the crux of the idea of Buddhist peace.

A large part of me getting more involved into the concepts Buddhism has to offer and honestly a thing that had both helped my healing journey and how I interact with my system is the large realization that the existence of "I" doesn't really have much ground to it in what it is and what it means and what defines "I".

That identity and human nature is largely a mobile and constant changing force part of a larger and grander thing that is just really existence as a whole and there is little that makes me more unique than say the trees or the squirrel looking for nut or a bird singing in the tree other than the fact that I have the "curse" of conscious awareness and 'advanced intellect' that makes it so that I both feel the need to >Be< something and the bother of "the next thing". A large part of practice is letting go of a lot of notions that a lot of society and life reinforce - one of the most in my current stage of learning and practice - is letting go of the concept of "me and I" and just, ya know, being.

And to me, looking at the """""Western Tulpamancy Community""""" you have people who are sectoring off a part of themselves, their experience, their life whatever and not only identifying it as seperate from them (NO!!!! We are all connected >:[ <- light hearted comment) but also giving that part of themselves an entire identity of it's own and a whole second sense of "I" beyond what was already there - combined with the overall themes of 'developing your tulpa' by giving it more traits and details and stuff until it 'becomes independent' is rooted in such American / Western individualism which DO not even get me started on how toxic individualism is and how inherently opposite it is to Buddhism and

//deep breath//

I'm getting ahead of myself, the truth is while the concept of 'creating a headmate' or whatever greatly concerns me as a Buddhist - as a human and as a Buddhist (in a different perspective), seeking out to change people is the last thing I'm interested in and it's honestly not this uber horrible or harmful thing and its really not my business; so as long as it is making someone happy and what not, I really don't care if it doesn't match to my theory cause ya know, theory is that - just theory. Live and let be ya know - yall have your own life to live and yall know how to live your own life better than I could assume to know so I'm not gonna try to tell you how to live it. Philosophical theory comes second to philosophical practice and practice says to live and let be.

But its just really frustrating a lot of the time to see how the topic is handled when its far from really what it is. And in theory, I should let it go because honestly, people using the word "tulpa" to describe experiences that are largely anti-thetical to my understanding of Buddhism - while annoying - is not the end of the world and fostering hate and aggression does nothing but increase the overall suffering (dukkha) in the world. Often, when I think about talking about it or getting mad, I do tend to repeat that mantra back to myself and most of the time I refrain and leave it be.

That being said, XIV runs on the philosophy and critique of the over theroretical approach to Buddhism over the realistic and practical in saying that by "letting go of" certain frustrations and annoyances and grievances - while healthier for the individual person - enables and perpetuates long term suffering for the masses and years to come. So that while it would be best for me / us to let it go and exist in a state closer to Buddhist peace and doing so is an entirely valid decision (thus why I respect Buddhists who say using the tulpa-term is fine), I would also be choosing to maintain my peace over acknowledging and speaking up about the honestly long and ongoing racism and disrespect that plague those that I feel particular kinship with and in XIV's perspective (one that I am starting to take on a bit more lately) - the choice of personal peace is a selfish one that is complicit in increasing the suffering of the world as a whole in favor for the individual "I" that honestly has become a bit distasteful for our system.

But anyways, I digress. Buddhist ramble done.

[dustedmagazine]

Spiral Joy Band — Waves of Higher Bodies (Bud Tapes)

Wisconsin based drone collective Spiral Joy Band grew from the ashes of legendary Virginia avant-folk band Pelt, like a heat-activated seed breaking through its shell after a forest fire. The line-up tends to shift, including mostly Pelt alumni and associates, and since their formation in 2004, Spiral Joy Band has released a steady stream of mind altering long-form folk inflected improvisations. Their newest album, Waves of Higher Bodies, is out December 6th on Portland, Oregon label Bud Tapes in cassette and digital formats. This new zone finds the group distilled down to its most basic components, core member Mikel Dimmick acting as the gravitational center of a slow, swirling orbit of vibrations with help from longtime fellow traveler and freak-folk scene audio guru Rob Vaughn. It’s as close to a solo effort as a record from a band could be, there are no strings or reeds present, but the sounds are no less elemental, and no less cleansing. It’s music that can reaffirm your place as an essential part of the universe and knock the scales from your third eye — if you let it.

“Shadows on the Deck,” the first of the two long tracks comprising Waves of Spiral Bodies, opens with the sound of birdsong, which is subsumed at a leisurely pace by the titular waves, emanating from layers of patiently played gongs. The undulations in the sound feel like changes in weight or mass, instead of like changes in sonic volume. This is physical music, listening to it closely has an effect of bypassing the usual intellectual signifiers and phenomenological road signs that we use to interpret music; as the stacked gongs begin to howl, it hits in the base of the brain, just like the cold sun out on the deck when the shadows start to lengthen and the session – be it meditation or a joint – has gone too far, into unexpected, unknown, but not entirely unpleasant territory. All explorations, inward and outward, have their moments of dread, activating our ancient impulses. The heaviness of the piece relents about two-thirds of the way through, and the birds reappear, as if the sun has burst through clouds, but the reprieve is brief, and the waves return with greater insistence and more profound psychedelic treatment, to fully scour the moss from the folds of your brain.

The second half of Waves of Higher Bodies, “Shimmering Alloys,” introduces singing bowls and bells, chiming and ringing in a vague gesture towards rhythm. Like the inexorable gong-waves of the opening track invoking the album title, there is some onomatopoeia in effect here with all these metallic objects brought together in reverb-drenched harmony – these literal alloys being manipulated give this music a direct tie to the earth itself. When so much time and space is given to such a minimal selection of tones, it allows the listener to focus on and appreciate that tie, and that awareness can spread, like fingers of rime creeping across a leaf, and become a deepened sensation of the interconnection between all things and phenomena – it’s no wonder the instruments used here are also traditional to Zen Buddhism.

Waves of Higher Bodies is hardcore abstract drone music – it requires patience and openness on the part of the listener, but it promises a real reward. It’s minimalist in a very deep sense, an elemental sense, as every sound present here not made by an animal is made by pure metal, the base material of our firmament. There are times when music that reminds us in such a direct way of what we spend our lives standing and laying on, being an inseparable part of, and eventually returning to, is a true balm.

Joshua Moss

[shamandrummer]

A Spiritual Perspective on Political Grief

In our increasingly polarized world, it's common to feel overwhelmed by the political climate. Whether it's the disheartening news cycle, divisive rhetoric, or the perceived erosion of societal values, many of us experience profound grief related to politics. This grief can feel all-encompassing, draining, and difficult to navigate. While traditional coping mechanisms may offer some relief, a spiritual approach can help us transform political grief into an opportunity for deeper understanding, connection, and personal growth. In this blog post, we'll explore what political grief is, why it feels so intense, and how spiritual practices can help us process this complex emotional experience.

What is grief?

Grief is simply the outcome of loss, but there's a caveat--the criterion for what you lost is that you were attached to it. You can grieve things that are both clear and unclear. Most of our literature is based on a clear loss--death or the loss of money, things that can be quantified or proven. But political grief is more ambiguous. It's not like a grief of a person for whom you have a death certificate and a funeral after and rituals of support and comfort.

Understanding Political Grief

Political grief is a unique form of sadness, anger, or mourning that arises in response to political events or decisions that we perceive as unjust or harmful. It can manifest in several ways:

Loss of Faith in Institutions: As government systems fail to address the needs of the people, we might feel a deep loss of trust and confidence.

Mourning Collective Values: We may grieve for societal values that seem to be disappearing, such as compassion, equality, or environmental stewardship.

Empathetic Pain: Seeing others suffer due to policies or political actions can lead to a form of empathetic grief. It's not just our own pain but the shared pain of witnessing injustice and inequality.

Political grief is distinct because it often feels collective. It's not just about a personal loss; it's about a perceived loss of shared ideals and dreams for the future.

Why Political Grief Hurts So Much

Political grief is particularly painful because it strikes at the core of our identities and beliefs. Politics, at its essence, is about how we structure our collective lives. When political decisions clash with our personal values, it can feel like a betrayal of the social contract. This betrayal can trigger feelings of helplessness, disillusionment, and despair.

Moreover, the rapid pace of today's political landscape, amplified by 24/7 news and social media, means we are constantly bombarded with distressing updates. It can be hard to find a moment of peace when each notification brings fresh anxieties. This persistent exposure can turn political grief into a chronic state of being.

The Spiritual Approach to Political Grief

From a spiritual perspective, political grief offers an invitation to deepen our understanding of interconnectedness, compassion, and resilience. Rather than trying to avoid or numb the discomfort, spirituality teaches us to engage with our grief in meaningful ways.

1. Accept the Pain as Part of the Human Experience

One of the fundamental principles of spiritual practice is the acceptance of suffering as a part of life. In Buddhism, for example, the First Noble Truth states that suffering is inherent in existence. By acknowledging our grief, rather than fighting it, we allow ourselves to be fully present with our emotions. This acceptance does not mean resignation; instead, it creates space for healing and transformation.

2. Practice Mindful Awareness

Mindfulness encourages us to observe our feelings without judgment. When faced with political grief, it's easy to become consumed by anger or fear. Mindful awareness helps us step back and witness our emotions, allowing us to process them more effectively. Through meditation or deep breathing, we can create a moment of calm, grounding ourselves in the present and alleviating the intense grip of distressing thoughts. Consider a daily mindfulness practice where you sit quietly for a few minutes, focusing on your breath. As thoughts about politics or the state of the world arise, notice them without attachment. Let them pass like clouds in the sky, returning your focus to your breath.

3. Connect to a Larger Vision of Life

Political systems and structures are, by nature, impermanent. Spiritual teachings remind us of the cyclical nature of life and the universe. The world has seen countless political systems rise and fall, yet the human spirit endures. By connecting to something larger than the current political moment--whether that's nature, the cosmos, or a higher power--we can gain a broader perspective that helps us find solace. For many, prayer, meditation, or spending time in nature can serve as a reminder of the greater forces at play beyond the political sphere. These practices can help us detach from the need for immediate control and embrace the flow of life with a sense of trust and faith.

4. Channel Grief into Compassionate Action

Spiritual traditions emphasize the importance of compassion and service. Political grief, when acknowledged and processed, can be a powerful motivator for compassionate action. Instead of being paralyzed by despair, we can transform our sorrow into purposeful deeds that help others. Consider volunteering for a cause aligned with your values, participating in peaceful protests, or engaging in community-building activities. Designate a time each week to write letters to elected officials. Set up a monthly donation to a cause that aligns with your values. These actions not only serve the greater good but also provide a sense of agency, helping to alleviate feelings of helplessness.

5. Establish Personal Rituals

Establishing personal rituals offers a way to process emotions constructively. One of the most therapeutic rituals for coping with grief is journaling. Set aside 10-15 minutes each day to write down your thoughts and feelings about the current political climate. Express your worries, disappointments, and hopes. An unconventional but symbolic ritual for coping with political grief is creating a political altar. This space can serve as a focal point for your emotions and intentions. Decorate it with objects that represent your values and hopes for the future. You might include: photographs of leaders or activists you admire, candles, which can be lit as a gesture of hope and solidarity, and quotes or poems that inspire resilience and strength. Taking a moment each day to sit by the altar, light a candle, or say a quiet prayer can serve as a reminder that you are part of a larger movement for change, and that you are not alone in your grief.

6. Cultivate Inner Peace Amid Outer Chaos

While it's natural to be affected by the turmoil of the world, spiritual teachings encourage us to cultivate a sanctuary of peace within ourselves. Practices like shamanism, yoga, meditation, or prayer help us build a resilient inner core, which can remain stable even when the external world feels chaotic. This inner peace does not mean turning a blind eye to injustice. Instead, it equips us with the strength to face challenges with clarity and compassion. It's about finding a balance--acknowledging our grief and frustration while also nurturing a sense of calm that allows us to respond wisely rather than react impulsively.

Finding Hope Through Spiritual Growth

Political grief, when viewed through a spiritual lens, can be a profound catalyst for personal growth and collective healing. It forces us to confront our deepest fears and anxieties, but it also offers a path toward greater empathy, resilience, and wisdom. By embracing spiritual practices, we can transform our pain into a source of strength and a deeper understanding of our interconnectedness.

Conclusion

Navigating political grief is challenging, but a spiritual approach can offer solace and guidance. It reminds us that while we cannot always control the external world, we have the power to shape our inner experience. Through acceptance, mindfulness, connection to the greater whole, compassionate action, and cultivating inner peace, we can move from a place of despair to one of hope and empowerment. The next time you feel overwhelmed by the state of the world, take a moment to breathe deeply and connect with your spiritual center. Remember, you are not alone in your grief, and together, we can find the strength to continue striving for a more compassionate and just society. To learn more, read a sample of my book The Great Shift: And How To Navigate It.

[designlabpune]

Managing Stress in the Digital Age - Using Mindfulness Apps and Techniques

In today's fast-paced and technology-driven world, stress management has become an important aspect of our daily lives. The digital age has brought us many conveniences and opportunities, but it has also introduced new sources of stress and anxiety. Constant connectivity, information overload, and the pressure to keep up with the ever-evolving digital landscape can take a toll on our mental and physical well-being. Fortunately, technology can also be part of the solution. We'll explore the role of mindfulness apps and techniques in helping to manage stress in the digital age.

The Digital Age and Stress: A Complex Relationship

The digital age, characterised by the widespread use of smartphones, social media and constant connectivity, has changed the way we live and work. Although these technologies have undoubtedly brought us closer to each other and provided many benefits, they have also given rise to a variety of stressors that can affect our mental health.

Constant Connectivity: With smartphones and the Internet, we are always connected to work, social networks, and news. The pressure of being available 24/7 can cause burnout and stress.

Information Overload: We are bombarded with enormous amounts of information every day. The constant flow of news, emails, and information can lead to cognitive overload and stress.

Social Media Comparison: Social media platforms can promote unrealistic comparisons, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and stress.

Digital Distractions: The digital world is full of distractions, from online games to streaming services. These distractions can hinder productivity and increase our stress levels.

Cyberbullying and Online Harassment: The anonymity provided by the digital world can lead to cyberbullying and online harassment, causing significant stress and anxiety.

Privacy Concerns: Concerns about online privacy and data security can also contribute to stress, as individuals are concerned about misuse of their personal information.

In the face of these stressors, it is essential to find effective strategies to manage stress and maintain our well-being in the digital age.

Mindfulness As A Solution

Mindfulness, a practice rooted in ancient traditions such as Buddhism, has gained significant popularity in recent years as a solution to managing stress and enhancing overall well-being. At its core, mindfulness involves paying intentional and non-judgmental attention to the present moment. This practice can help us break ruminating cycles, reduce anxiety, and increase our resilience to stress.

The application of mindfulness in the digital age is a timely response to the unique challenges presented by our technologically driven lives. Mindfulness techniques and apps can be powerful tools for reducing stress and promoting mental health in the digital age. Let's look at how mindfulness can help, and explore the best apps and techniques available.

Benefits of Mindfulness in the Digital Age

Before we explore mindfulness apps and techniques, it's important to understand the many benefits of incorporating mindfulness into your daily life in the digital age:

1. Stress Reduction

Mindfulness techniques can help us manage stress by promoting relaxation and reducing the body's stress response. Regular exercise can reduce cortisol levels and keep the mind calm and balanced.

2. Better Focus and Productivity

In a world full of distractions, mindfulness can increase our ability to focus and be more productive. It helps us free ourselves from the constant desire to multitask and engage fully in our tasks.

3. Emotional Regulation

Mindfulness enables us to better understand and manage our emotions. It teaches us to respond rather than react, reducing impulsive behaviour and emotional outbursts.

4. Increased Self-Awareness

Mindfulness encourages self-reflection and self-awareness. It helps us understand our thought patterns and behavioural tendencies, which leads to personal growth and progress.

5. Better Relationships

By being fully present in our conversations, we can improve the quality of our relationships. Mindfulness promotes active listening and empathy, leading to more meaningful relationships with others.

6. Better Sleep

Digital devices, especially screens, can disrupt our sleep patterns. Mindfulness can aid in better sleep by promoting relaxation and reducing the racing thoughts that often keep us awake.

7. Reduction in Anxiety and Depression

Many studies have shown that mindfulness can significantly reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. It provides a valuable tool for managing the negative mental health impacts of the digital age.

Mindfulness Apps: A Convenient Path to Well-Being

In a world dominated by technology, it is only fitting that we take advantage of digital tools to bring awareness to our lives. Mindfulness apps have made it easier than ever to access guided meditations, relaxation exercises, and mindfulness practices. Here are some top mindfulness apps to help you manage stress and embrace mindfulness in the digital age:

1. Headspace: Headspace is one of the most popular mindfulness apps, known for its user-friendly interface and a wide range of guided meditation sessions. It covers a variety of topics including stress reduction, improving sleep, and increasing focus. The app also offers "Mindful Moments", which are brief guided exercises you can do throughout the day.

2. Calm: Calm is another highly rated mindfulness app that offers a wide selection of guided meditations, sleep stories, and relaxation techniques. Narrated by famous voices like Matthew McConaughey and Stephen Fry, Calm's Sleep Stories have received widespread praise for their effectiveness in improving sleep.

3. Insight Timer: Insight Timer offers an extensive library of free guided meditations, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a cost-effective mindfulness solution. The app also includes a timer feature for self-guided meditations and a supportive community of meditators.

4. 10% Happier: Created by ABC News anchor Dan Harris, 10% Happier is designed for sceptics and those who may be wary of the spiritual aspects of mindfulness. The app includes a variety of practical, science-backed mindfulness techniques and insights from experts.

5. Breathe: Breathe is a straightforward mindfulness app that focuses on the fundamentals of relaxation and meditation. It offers guided breathing exercises and visualisations to help users manage stress and anxiety effectively.

6. MyLife (formerly Stop, Breathe and Think): MyLife is known for its personalized approach to mindfulness. The app asks users to examine their feelings and sensations before recommending guided meditations and mindfulness practices tailored to their current mental state.

7. Aura: Aura is an AI-powered mindfulness app that customises meditation sessions based on the user's preferences and needs. It also offers a variety of content, including mindfulness exercises, sleep stories, and life coaching.

8. Waking Up: Created by neuroscientist and philosopher Sam Harris, Waking Up highlights the philosophical and scientific aspects of mindfulness. The app offers daily lessons and meditations designed to deepen your understanding of consciousness and well-being.

These apps offer a variety of features and approaches to mindfulness, making it easy to find an app that suits your preferences and needs. Many of them offer free versions with the option to unlock additional content with a subscription.

Mindfulness Techniques For The Digital Age

In addition to using mindfulness apps, there are various techniques and practices you can incorporate into your daily routine to manage stress in the digital age:

1. Breathing Exercises: Simple breathing exercises can be incredibly effective at reducing stress and anxiety. Try deep breathing, box breathing, or the 4-7-8 technique to calm your mind and body.

2. Body Scan Meditation: This technique involves mentally scanning your body from head to toe, paying attention to any stress or discomfort. It is a great way to relieve physical and mental stress.

3. Mindful Walking: Take short breaks during the day to engage in mindful walking. Pay attention to the feel of each step and your surroundings, even if it's just a short walk around your work area.

4. Digital Detox: Disconnect from your digital devices sometimes. Specify specific times when you will not check your email or social media. Unplugging for a while can help reduce digital stress.

5. Gratitude Journaling: In the digital age, it's easy to focus on what we lack rather than what we have. Maintaining a gratitude journal can change your perspective and reduce stress by focusing on the positive aspects of your life.

6. Mindful Eating: Practise mindful eating instead of multitasking during meals. Pay attention to the taste, texture, and smell of your food. This not only reduces stress but also promotes healthy eating habits.

7. Progressive Muscle Relaxation: This technique involves tensing and relaxing each muscle group in your body. It is an effective way to relieve physical stress and promote relaxation.

8. Visualisation: Use your imagination to create a mental oasis. When you're feeling stressed, imagine a peaceful place in your mind where you can escape to.

9. Use Technology Thoughtfully: Be intentional with your technology use. Set limits on screen time and consider using apps that track your usage to help you maintain a healthy digital balance.

10. Mindful Silence: Embrace moments of silence and solitude. In a world full of noise and constant stimulation, silence can be a powerful tool to reduce stress and reconnect with your inner self.

Incorporating Mindfulness into Your Digital Life

To truly manage stress in the digital age, it's important to integrate mindfulness into your daily routine and digital habits:

1. Set Boundaries: Establish boundaries for your digital interactions. Set specific times when you will disconnect from technology, such as during meals or before bed.

2. Practise Conscious Consumption: Be conscious of what you consume online. Follow accounts and websites that promote positivity and well-being. Unfollow or mute content that triggers stress or negative emotions.

3. Mindful Notifications: Adjust your notification settings to reduce the constant interruption of alerts. Allow only essential notifications and disable the rest.

4. Digital Sabbaticals: Plan regular digital sabbaticals where you completely disconnect from technology for a set period of time, whether it's a day, a weekend, or longer.

5. Careful Use of Social Media: Limit your time on social media platforms and include content in your feed that inspires and excites you.

6. Mindful Multitasking: Avoid multitasking when it comes to digital tasks. Focus on one task at a time to improve productivity and reduce stress.

7. Mindful Content Creation: If you are a content creator or actively engage in digital communications, be conscious of the impact of your message on others. Encourage positive and constructive discussions.

8. Mindful Digital Declutter: Declutter your digital life by organizing your files, emails, and apps on a regular basis. A clutter-free digital environment can help reduce stress.

9. Community Engagement: Join online communities that align with your interests and values. Connecting with like-minded individuals can provide a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation.

10. Teach Mindfulness to Others: If you find mindfulness helpful, share your knowledge with friends, family, or coworkers. Teaching others can strengthen your own mindfulness practice.

Overcoming Common Challenges

While the benefits of mindfulness in the digital age are substantial, there are some common challenges that individuals may face:

1. Consistency: Maintaining a regular mindfulness practice can be challenging due to busy digital lives. To overcome this, set aside a specific time each day for your exercise and make it an inevitable part of your daily routine.

2. Overcoming Doubt: Some people may doubt the effectiveness of mindfulness. To address this, start with short practices and gradually increase the duration as you experience visible benefits.

3. Digital Addiction: If you find it challenging to disconnect from technology, you may be struggling with digital addiction. Seek support from friends or professionals to help you develop a healthy relationship with technology.

4. Impatience: It is common to expect immediate results from mindfulness. However, benefits often come slowly. Be patient with yourself and trust the process.

5. Lack of Guidance: For people who are new to mindfulness, it can be challenging to know where to start. Start with a reputable mindfulness app, or seek guidance from experienced practitioners or teachers.

Conclusion

The digital age has introduced unique challenges to our lives, including stress and anxiety related to constant connectivity and information overload. However, it has also provided us with powerful tools to manage these stressors, including mindfulness techniques and apps.

Mindfulness, the practice of being present and non-judgmental, offers a variety of benefits that are especially relevant in the digital age. By incorporating mindfulness into your daily life, using mindfulness apps, and practising various techniques, you can reduce stress, increase your well-being, and gain control over your digital interactions.

Remember that mindfulness is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Find the technologies and apps that suit you and make them an integral part of your daily routine. With mindfulness, you can navigate the digital age more effectively, reduce stress, and achieve a better sense of balance and peace in your life.

DesignLab Agency is an Agency that provides design and development services for websites and web applications. The company is based in Pune, India and offers a range of services including website design, web development, e-commerce solutions and digital marketing services. The website features a portfolio of their past work and provides detailed information about their services and pricing. They also have a blog section where they share useful tips and insights about website design and development. Visitors to the website can request a quotation or contact the company through their contact form.

[eveydeevey]

theres a recurring comment on this a lot of different people have said in different words that fascinates me. specifically a lot of comments on this say this is what christianity is, or some subset of christianity. And that's fascinating to me. I think it betrays how being raised christian or even just in an extremely overall christian society affects how someone thinks about religion in general (and frankly not in a good way.)

I'm not an expert on Buddhism by a long shot, but I think finding a similarity between it and Christianity is generally stuffing a square peg in a round hole. Even in tbe context of this post, they have a fundamentally different view on what suffering is and what it means in a theological context.

I get the sense that a people read "desire is the root of suffering" as a castigation, as saying that suffering is a punishment for desire. This is somewhat the Christian reading, for lack of a better term. Christianity says that suffering is punishment for sin, that everyone is sinful and while they will be forgiven, it's something to be ashamed of. While it depends on the sect of Christianity, the common view is that suffering and pain are something to be borne as a penance for sin. (This isn't necessarily something people consciously believe or state, but it is an undeniable aspect of christianity. At its core, the idea of Jesus is that he suffered so that everyone else wouldn't have to.)

So, people with that christian upbringing ir cultural christian osmosis read "desire is the root of suffering" as "suffering is punishment for desire." But that's just not what it means! Grain of salt, of course, since I'm not a scholar on the subject, but ultimately "desire is the root of sufferring" is just a statement of fact. If you didn't desire anything, you wouldn't suffer when you didn't get it. Even pain itself is only suffering, in the sense that the word is used in buddhism, if you desire for the pain to stop. Desire causes suffering inherently, but it's not a moral thing - it's just the nature of desire. One can do their best to eliminate desire, to move past it, but it's a monumental undertaking and not something most people need to strive for.

Ultimately my post was just 1. a joke and 2. about how genuinely understanding and appreciating the concept of desire as the root of suffering has helped me just approach life better. I'm not gonna be a bodhisattva any time soon, but I've been more able to appreciate wanting things I can't have, and more able to recognize when how much I want something has been more negative than positive for me. I think it's something that could benefit a lot of people to understand.

Anyway I think it's important for people who were raised christian/in a culturally christian society to remember that most religions just aren't structured the same way as christianity at all and grew from completely different philosophies and contexts. Don't read other religions as just christianity with a different bible yknow?

okay sorry for rambling bye

guy who hears about buddhism and the idea that desire and suffering are one and the same and internalizes it but in a way that makes him like suffering instead of avoiding desire

[talonabraxas]

Green Tara Talon Abraxas

Unveiling the Maa Tara Mantra and Its Variations

The Maa Tara Mantra holds a special place within Buddhism, with "Om Tara Tuttare Ture Soha" as its evocative expression. This mantra encapsulates the qualities of Tara, an embodiment of courage, wisdom, compassion and liberation.

As a fully enlightened female Buddha, meditating on her helps you attain the qualities of Buddha. She is ready to spring to the aid of beings and that's why her right foot is slightly extended. On her right knee, she has her right hand out as a sign of generosity. The stem of a lotus flower, which is in bloom next to her left ear, rests in her left hand.The "Green Tara Mantra," with its focus on a specific aspect of Tara, invokes her dynamic energy. Chanting this mantra with sincerity aligns practitioners with qualities of Maa Tara mainly compassion and courage.

Rooted in ancient Buddhist traditions, the Maa Tara Mantra finds its origin in the reverence for Tara, the compassionate goddess. Tara's name translates to "star" or "guide," embodying the illuminating path she offers to seekers.

Essence of "Om Tara Tuttare Soha"

"Om Tara Tuttare Ture Soha" represents the Green Tara, a compassionate figure attuned to the needs of all beings. Let's find the meaning of this mantra and know what significance each syllable carries:

Om: "Om" symbolizes ultimate reality, Om is the essence of consciousness and represents the entire universe- past, present and future.

Tara: "Tara" represents compassion as it represents a being who has attained enlightenment but chooses to remain in the cycle of life (birth and death) to help others achieve liberation.

Tuttare: "Tuttare" invokes liberation from eight great fears namely fears of lions, elephants, snakes, thieves, fire, water, bondage, and evil spirits.

Ture: "Ture" helps to alleviate your physical, mental and emotional illnesses and represents liberation from suffering and disease.

Soha: "Soha" seals the intentions and hence, it is said at the end of mantra as practitioners seek aspiration for its positive effects on their lives. Benefits of Chanting the Maa Tara Mantra

Let's delve into the Maa Tara mantra benefits. Chanting the Maa Tara Mantra, particularly the captivating "Om Tara Tuttare Soha," bestows upon practitioners an array of profound and transformative benefits. Let's understand the transformative effects that this mantra can bring:

1. Protection from negative influences and fears: Tara, often depicted with a compassionate and nurturing demeanor, is a source of protection. Chanting the green tara mantra invokes her energies, creating a shield against negative forces that seek to impede our spiritual journey. By connecting with Tara's compassionate presence, practitioners find solace and courage to navigate life's challenges.

2. Attainment of peace, courage, and compassion: The resonance of "Om Tara Tuttare Ture Soha" resonates with the core attributes of Tara: peace, courage, and compassion. Regular practice of the mantra infuses our consciousness with these qualities. If your inner self is filled with negative thoughts then chanting the green tara mantra will replace it with tranquility, fear is replaced by courage, and self-centeredness evolves into a compassionate outlook towards all beings.

3. Growth and enlightenment: Chanting this Buddhist mantra acts as a catalyst for your overall growth. Tara, a Bodhisattva dedicated to guiding others, facilitates our journey towards enlightenment. The mantra's vibrations connect ourselves with higher states of awareness, leading us to discover profound truths about ourselves and the universe. As we chant the Maa Tara Mantra, we draw closer to the luminous heart of Tara herself, reaping the rewards she offers to sincere seekers. The transformative power of this mantra transcends words, carrying us towards the realization of our highest potential.

Variations of the Maa Tara Mantra

While "Om Tara Tuttare Soha" holds a profound place, the Maa Tara Mantra embraces various forms, each with its unique significance. Let's delve into two notable variations: "Om Tara Tuttare Ture Soha" and the "Green Tara Mantra."

1. Om Tara Tuttare Ture Soha: This variation extends the mantra to include "Ture," amplifying its power. "Ture" represents Tara's ability to swiftly liberate beings from suffering. By invoking this aspect, practitioners seek not only protection and compassion but also a rapid path to enlightenment. The addition of "Ture" intensifies the mantra's transformative potential.

2. Green Tara Mantra: The "Green Tara Mantra" signifies a specific aspect of Tara: Green Tara. Green Tara embodies active compassion along with wisdom and courage and symbolizes swift assistance and guidance. The mantra aligns with her energies, invoking her presence to assist in immediate challenges. Practicing the green tara mantra encourages a sense of urgency in your mental growth and a responsive connection to the energies of the universe.

[awiseandhappylife]

Meditation for Mental Health

In today’s fast-paced world, where stress, anxiety, and mental health challenges are becoming increasingly prevalent, the practice of meditation has emerged as a powerful tool to restore balance, inner peace, and emotional well-being. With roots in ancient traditions, meditation is not just a method for spiritual growth but also a proven practice for improving mental health.

This blog will explore how meditation can lead to a wise and happy life, offering insights on its benefits, practical techniques, and how it cultivates long-term mental well-being.

The Importance of Mental Health

Mental health is as important as physical health, yet it often receives less attention. In an age where constant pressure from work, relationships, and societal expectations takes a toll on our emotional well-being, it’s crucial to recognize that mental health affects how we think, feel, and behave. Poor mental health can lead to issues like depression, anxiety, burnout, and even physical illnesses.

Modern life introduces us to an overload of information, an unending cycle of activity, and little time for personal reflection. These factors contribute to rising levels of stress and anxiety. To navigate this effectively, developing habits that nurture mental health is essential, and meditation is one of the most accessible and effective tools available.

Meditation: A Path to Mental Clarity and Emotional Balance

What Is Meditation?

At its core, meditation is the practice of training the mind to focus, be present, and calm itself. It involves various techniques, such as mindfulness, breath awareness, or mantra repetition, aimed at bringing about a state of deep relaxation and concentration. While meditation has spiritual roots in Buddhism, Hinduism, and other traditions, modern psychology has embraced its benefits for mental health, with scientific studies proving its effectiveness.

Meditation works by quieting the mind and reducing the constant chatter of thoughts that can create stress and anxiety. Through regular practice, meditation helps people cultivate greater self-awareness, reduce negative emotions, and develop inner peace.

The Mental Health Benefits of Meditation

Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Meditation has been shown to significantly lower stress levels by encouraging relaxation and reducing the body’s stress hormone, cortisol. When we meditate, we enter a state of calm awareness, distancing ourselves from the stressful thoughts and worries that often dominate our minds. This allows the brain to shift away from the “fight or flight” response and move toward a more balanced state of being.

Improves Emotional Health: Regular meditation can help improve emotional health by promoting positive thinking, self-acceptance, and compassion. Through mindfulness meditation, in particular, individuals can learn to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment, fostering a healthier relationship with their emotions. This process cultivates emotional resilience, helping to manage conditions like depression and anxiety.

Increases Focus and Concentration: A scattered mind can be exhausting and lead to feelings of overwhelm. Meditation trains the brain to stay focused on the present moment, improving concentration, attention span, and overall cognitive function. Meditation helps reduce distractions and enhances our ability to remain fully engaged in tasks, which is crucial for productivity and mental clarity.

Enhances Self-Awareness: Meditation encourages introspection and self-reflection, helping individuals become more aware of their thoughts, patterns, and behaviors. As we meditate, we gain insights into our mind’s tendencies, leading to a deeper understanding of ourselves. This increased self-awareness can be transformative, allowing us to identify unhealthy habits, foster self-compassion, and make more intentional decisions.

Promotes Better Sleep: Stress and anxiety are common contributors to insomnia and poor sleep quality. Meditation, especially practices that emphasize relaxation and mindfulness, can help calm the mind, reduce overthinking, and create a sense of peace before bedtime. Many individuals who meditate regularly report improved sleep patterns and deeper rest, which are crucial for maintaining mental health.

Supports Addiction Recovery: Meditation can be a valuable tool in addiction recovery by helping individuals manage cravings, cope with withdrawal symptoms, and build emotional resilience. Practices such as mindfulness meditation and loving-kindness meditation have been found to support people struggling with addiction by enhancing self-awareness and promoting self-control.

Develops Compassion and Kindness: Meditative practices like loving-kindness meditation focus on cultivating feelings of compassion, empathy, and love toward oneself and others. This practice not only improves personal relationships but also fosters a sense of connection to the world, which contributes to overall happiness and emotional fulfillment.

Types of Meditation for Mental Health

There are various forms of meditation, each with unique benefits for mental health. Below are some of the most effective techniques:

1. Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness meditation involves focusing on the present moment without judgment. It’s about observing thoughts, feelings, and sensations as they arise and letting them pass without becoming attached to them. This practice helps develop non-reactivity, allowing individuals to observe stressful or negative thoughts without being overwhelmed.

How to Practice Mindfulness Meditation:

Sit comfortably with your back straight.

Close your eyes and focus on your breathing.

Observe the flow of your breath as you inhale and exhale.

When your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to your breath without judgment.

2. Breath Awareness Meditation

This is one of the simplest forms of meditation and involves focusing solely on the act of breathing. By bringing full attention to each inhale and exhale, breath awareness meditation helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve concentration.

How to Practice Breath Awareness Meditation:

Sit or lie down comfortably.

Take slow, deep breaths, focusing on the sensation of air entering and leaving your body.

If your mind wanders, acknowledge the distraction and refocus on your breath.

3. Loving-Kindness Meditation (Metta)

Loving-kindness meditation involves generating feelings of compassion and love toward oneself and others. It helps promote emotional healing, improve self-compassion, and cultivate a sense of universal connection.

How to Practice Loving-Kindness Meditation:

Sit comfortably with your eyes closed.

Start by focusing on yourself, silently repeating phrases like, “May I be happy. May I be healthy. May I be safe.”

Then extend these wishes to loved ones, acquaintances, and even those you may have conflicts with.

Finally, extend feelings of compassion and kindness to all living beings.

4. Guided Meditation

In guided meditation, a teacher or recording leads the practitioner through a meditative experience. This can be especially helpful for beginners, as it provides structure and direction. Guided meditations can focus on relaxation, mindfulness, visualization, or personal growth.

5. Body Scan Meditation

Body scan meditation focuses on progressively relaxing each part of the body while cultivating awareness of physical sensations. It’s highly effective for reducing tension, promoting relaxation, and improving mind-body awareness.

How to Practice Body Scan Meditation:

Lie down in a comfortable position.

Start by focusing on your toes, gradually moving your attention up through your legs, torso, arms, and head.

As you focus on each part of your body, notice any sensations without judgment.

How Meditation Leads to a Wise and Happy Life

1. Developing Mental Clarity and Insight

Meditation cultivates mental clarity, allowing you to see things as they truly are. By regularly quieting the mind, you gain insight into your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This self-awareness leads to wisdom — helping you make better decisions, align with your values, and live a more intentional life.

2. Emotional Regulation and Resilience

Meditation enhances your ability to regulate emotions, leading to greater emotional resilience. Through mindfulness, you learn to observe your emotions without becoming overwhelmed by them. This helps you respond to life’s challenges with equanimity and patience, rather than reacting impulsively.

3. Cultivating Compassion and Connection

A wise and happy life is one that fosters compassion and connection with others. Practices like loving-kindness meditation promote empathy and understanding, which are essential for building healthy relationships and contributing to the well-being of others.

4. Inner Peace and Contentment

Meditation brings about a sense of inner peace by helping you disconnect from the constant stream of thoughts and worries that dominate daily life. This peace isn’t dependent on external circumstances but is cultivated from within. With regular practice, you begin to experience greater contentment and happiness in the present moment, regardless of life’s ups and downs.

5. Mindful Living

A wise and happy life is grounded in the practice of mindfulness — being fully present and aware in each moment. By incorporating mindfulness into daily life, you reduce stress, improve focus, and experience life more fully. Whether you’re working, spending time with loved ones, or enjoying nature, mindfulness allows you to savor each experience with greater depth and joy.

Tips for Building a Regular Meditation Practice

Start small: Begin with just 5–10 minutes a day, gradually increasing the duration as you become more comfortable.

Be consistent: Make meditation a daily habit, even if it’s for a short time. Consistency is key to reaping the benefits.

Find a quiet space: Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you can meditate without distractions.

Don’t judge your practice: It’s normal for your mind to wander during meditation. When this happens, gently bring your focus back to your breath or chosen focus point without judgment.

Use resources: Consider using meditation apps, guided meditations, or joining a local meditation.

https://www.awiseandhappylife.com/

[crossedwithblue]

Re. tags, yeah I'd be very happy to discuss it! With the caveat that this is all sort of absorbed from being brought up in the faith and is my understanding/interpretation of it, a different (ex-)Jain might disagree on some of it.

As a general overview it's philosophically quite similar to Buddhism - the end goal is also to gain enlightenment and break the cycle of reincarnation by ridding yourself of karma. There are 24 'teachers' who gained enlightenment and whose example you're supposed to follow and learn from (you aren't meant to worship them per se but you do do prayer rituals with their statues all the same, it's meant to be a request for them to help you see the way? I guess it's sort of like Catholicism where you functionally worship saints when requesting intercession but don't call it that, though there is no higher power) but the main one's life story is really similar to the Buddha's (started as a prince who was sheltered from all suffering and evil because he was prophesied to gain enlightenment and the king didn't want to lose his son, ended up seeing old age, illness and death anyway, left the palace and renounced all luxuries to wander and meditate, ridded himself of all karma by not responding to anyone/anything who wronged him or helped him, finally reached enlightenment).

Historically I believe it came out of the same heterodoxy against Hinduism as Buddhism did i.e. being opposed to the idea that there is no way out of the cycle of reincarnation. Karma is what causes/drives reincarnation in this family of religions (the amount+type of karma you have determines your next birth (e.g. someone with lots of bad karma might be a demon in their next life, someone who did a lot of good might be a 'higher animal'), plus you can be karmically linked to specific souls/individuals and be predisposed to be friends or enemies with them. There's probably more stuff that I don't know about but karma does work pretty differently to the Western conception of it). I'm not entirely sure how this interfaces with the idea that attachment is the root of all suffering, possibly that the karma generated by any given interaction is a manifestation of attachment??

But basically the idea is that a layperson should live as good and unattached a life as they can, even if they can't go off and do all the monk-type stuff. You're also meant to do as little harm as possible which is where the food rules stem from. There's also a lot of emphasis on meditation and fasting, even laypeople will do pretty extreme fasts like taking in nothing but boiled water for two weeks at a time, or a Ramadan-esque fast of only having one very simple meal a day for months on end.

If some of this sounds pretty similar to Buddhism that's because it is, there are philosophical differences but as far as I'm aware they're mostly in the semantics.

At its core I think there are a lot of good points to Jainism and it's definitely shaped my worldview and moral compass a lot, but a combination of the sort of religious guilt it formed in me (probably not as extreme as Catholic guilt but it's really easy to interpret the teachings as 'you're not allowed to enjoy anything ever') plus the hypocrisy I saw in a lot of laypeople, are what cause me to no longer call myself a Jain (though I still go to the temple with grandma cause it makes her happy).

Gonna stop now because it's turned into a mini-essay but if you have specific questions I will do my best to answer them!

LMFAO

[jiejing-lifechanyuan]

Welcome to know Lifechanyuan and the Second Home community

Lifechanyuan is the Noah's Ark of the new era, a spiritual and mental home for humanity. Lifechanyuan is a place where great souls come together to create a peaceful, beautiful, and harmonious reality for humanity and at the mean time, to make themselves qualified for accessing higher life spaces by means of self-cultivation and self-improvement.​ In Lifechanyuan, you can learn the answers to the meaning and value of your life. Lifechanyuan is the integration of Christianity, Catholicism, Islam, Buddhism, Taoism, science and Mao Zedong thoughts which truthfully explains the origin of the universe, the mystery of LIFE, and the true meaning of life. Lifechanyuan proved the existence of The Greatest Creator, illustrated the eight characteristics of The Greatest Creator and the eight major relations between The Greatest Creator and human being trough 40 special natural phenomena and 8 logical reasoning. This helps us clearly understand who The Greatest Creator is and how He loves humanity.

One of the core values of Lifechanyuan is to revere the Greatest Creator, revere life, and revere nature. The founder of Lifechanyuan, Xuefeng, has written many articles and created a new international family in the form of intentional community called the Second Home, which operates without traditional marriage and family life. This community aims to relieve people from the pain and troubles caused by traditional marital and family structures, allowing them to purify their hearts and ascend to higher life spaces. Over 15 years, Xuefeng has preached and built the Second Home to enable harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, humans and society.Lifechanyuan intends to set up 256 new life oases in the form of intentional communities worldwide.

Although the Chinese government views Lifechanyuan as an illegal organization due to its unconventional lifestyle without marriage and family, we harbor no resentment and have never opposed the government. In September 2017, our community was rebuilt in British Columbia Canada and were registered as a non-profit organization under the name “Lifechanyuan international Family Society” and currently, we have branches of the Second Home community in Thailand and South Korea.

If you are interested in spiritual life, want to understand what the Greatest Creator is, what religion is, the meaning of life and existence, or the scenery of the Kingdom of Heaven, you can learn about us; If you are divorced or single and dissatisfied with or troubled by marital and family life, you can learn about us; If you desire to live in a loving, mutual-service collective life, you can learn about us; If you want to understand reincarnation and how to accumulate merits to ascend to higher life realms for freedom and happiness, you can learn about us.

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These are some links for you to better know about Lifechanyuan and the Second Home community, especially 800 values. 800 values are the principles of our community.

Some PDFs of Lifechanyuan Values for you to FREE download:

My story about why I chose Lifechanyuan and live in the Second Home community:

In 2011, when I first encountered Lifechanyuan, I knew nothing about religious beliefs. It was my fear of the 2012 doomsday prophecy and seeing the message online from the Mars boy Boriska, who talked about a great spiritual guide being born in western China, that made me decide to go to a temple in my hometown, convert, and pray to Buddha to help me survive 2012 and find that great spiritual guide. A week later, I saw the information about the guide Xue Feng and the Second Home of Lifechanyuan online.

However, in 2013, because I knew nothing about spiritual practice and it was my first time living in a community, I experienced significant internal conflict and struggle. My mother, to prevent me from returning to the Second Home of Lifechanyuan, asked my aunt to take me to church to talk to a pastor. The pastor, seeing my potential, wanted me to go to a seminary in Beijing for an interview and hoped I could become a pastor too. However, my heart was only with Lifechanyuan; this is my mission.

After living in the Second Home of Lifechanyuan for three years, I returned to my parents to take care of them, started working, and got married. During this time, due to the stress of work and my inability to control my negative emotions, I developed severe insomnia and mastitis. As a result, I began seriously attending church to study the Bible and pray earnestly. Through this, I indeed felt the love of Jesus Christ, and my health did improve somewhat. But I also realized that while I studied diligently in church, outside, I still had to make a living with struggle, so my illness could not be cured. I was even advised by doctors to have a mastectomy to save my breast. Because of this, my ex-husband and I split up. Meanwhile, my mother was also suffering from cancer. If it weren't for the teachings of Lifechanyuan and the encouragement from the guide Xue Feng, I wouldn't have been able to survive until now, keep my breast, and improve my insomnia. The healing of my illness is the fundamental reason why I am determined to live in the Second Home of Lifechanyuan.

In my opinion, it is very important to me to choose the right way of my rest life. I had experienced three-year marriage life (without certificate and kid), and my parents passed away, these life experiences let me feel the great sufferings of traditional marriage and family program. I can not live healthily when living and working in the outside world because of high pressure and wrong values about money and competition. I found Lifechanyuan in 2011 and lived in its Second Home community till 2014 in China Branch, I do like it very much. After eight years later, I chose to live in Lifechanyuan Thailand Branch now. I enjoy the life here and have noticed significant changes both mentally and physically in one year.

Please read my article about one-year experience in Lifechanyuan Thailand Branch on June 5, 2024 from :