Ānāpānasati as a Vehicle for Awakening

Instructor(s): Ayya Santussika

Program Description:

The Buddha declared that skillful practice of mindfulness of breathing (ānāpānasati) fulfills the four foundations of mindfulness and in turn the seven factors of enlightenment (bojjhaṅgā), leading us to complete liberation from suffering. In this program, we will study the Ānāpānasati Sutta (Majjhima Nikāya 118) for application and inspiration. We will deepen our understanding and develop our dexterity with the 16 ānāpānasati instructions, which constitute the most detailed meditation guidance offered by the Buddha. As we strengthen our skills, we will emphasize applying them in cultivating the seven factors of enlightenment.

Noble Silence:

This program includes dedicated periods of both wise speech and noble silence. Some contemplative exercises may involve mindful speaking and listening. Noble silence is to be upheld at all other times.

Experience Level:

Suitable for beginning and experienced practitioners.

About the Instructor(s):
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  Ayya Santussika

  Ayya Santussika is a Theravada bhikkhuni who is trained and practicing in the Thai Forest tradition. Her faith in the Dhamma developed during many visits to monasteries of Ajahn Chah and his disciples in Thailand, America, England, New Zealand, and Australia beginning in 1998. She has been training as a nun since 2005 in large and small monasteries in both England and America. In 2012, she received full ordination as a bhikkhuni and founded Karuna Buddhist Vihara, where she currently lives, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains near Boulder Creek, California. Her Dhamma teachings are primarily based on the Pali suttas.