The Noble Eightfold Path
The Eightfold Path is the Buddha's approach to the end of suffering. By following his example, one can realize that the way to liberation is through one's own effort. Buddhism teaches that enlightenment is an inherent condition held within the heart of each and all and the Eightfold Path is a simple formulation for accessing that natural condition.
The Eightfold Path Practices are:
Right View
Right Thought
Right Speech
Right Action
Right Livelihood
Right Effort
Right Mindfulness
Right Concentration
Our approach in this class is to discuss each step in a relatable way including ideas on how to incorporate each of the eightfold practices in your day-to-day life.
Part 1 - Right View & Right Thought
This session focuses on the first two steps of the Eightfold Path, Right View and Right Thought. Included is a Mindfulness Meditation focusing on counting the breath.
Part 2 - Right Speech & Right Action
In this session, we introduced the concept of relative and absolute Mind, the Three Poisons, and the third and fourth stages of the Eightfold Path, Right Speech, and Right Action.
Part 3 - Right Livelihood & Right Action
In this session, we discuss Right Livelihood and Right Effort and bring greater meaning and relevance by framing the concepts in their contemporary context.
Part 4 - Right Mindfulness and Right Concentration
This session wraps up the final two stages of the Eightfold Path, Right Mindfulness and Right Concentration. After discussing these we do a meditation that incorporates both of these aspects of mental attention and discipline.
Recommended Meditations
Mindfulness Breathing Meditation - in this meditation we keep the mind focused on the present moment by attending to the breath.
Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation - this meditation introduces us to mind in its natural state which is spacious, open, and free.
Great Compassion Mantra - utilizes the ancient Buddhist mantra, Om Mani Padme Hum to invoke and make compassion available to all who need it.
