In this program we will investigate closely the process of clinging, and the direct experience of the release from clinging. This is the cornerstone of the Buddha’s teaching on the Four Noble Truths: that suffering is caused by clinging, and freedom comes with its release. The Buddha pointed to four types of clinging (to sense pleasure, views, rituals, and self), and we will explore each in turn. Additionally, we will be practicing with the four elements as a support for loosening clinging to the construct of a solid, separate self.
We will be practicing silent meditation as well as Insight Dialogue. Insight Dialogue is an interpersonal meditation practice that brings together mindfulness and concentration, the wisdom teachings of the Buddha and the power of relationship to support insight into the causes and the release of human suffering.
The intention for this program is to learn and practice guidelines for increasing meditative awareness as we speak and listen, and as we move through the various activities of the day. A further intention is to deepen our familiarity with the felt sense of clinging and its release.