The Power of Watching One's Mind - Sunday Meditation Class with Geshe Tharchin

In today’s class, Geshe-la begins by offering reassurance that becoming more aware of our thoughts during meditation is a good sign. Although we may initially feel overwhelmed as we become more aware of our thinking, pain and suffering, Geshe-la encourages us to be diligent and keep practicing. Today we continue to explore the third verse of the 8 Verses of Mind Training: 3. In all actions, I examine my mental continuum And the minute a delusion arises, Since it endangers myself and others, I forcefully confront and avert it. Geshe-la shares the importance of analysing the afflictions of body, speech and mind, as our conduct arises directly from these afflictions. He gives examples of examining the body: What causes discomfort or pain? What foods increase allergies or discomfort? What actions help reduce suffering? Geshe-la explains that this kind of investigation and awareness is itself a form of meditation. Geshe-la also offers practical methods for moving through our day. He encourages us to begin each day with motivation meditation: “May the actions of my body, speech and mind only benefit others today.” When challenges such as anger arise, he encourages us to become curious about the experience rather than trying to stop it. Where is the anger in my body? Can I find it? Instead of reacting, we can observe it. Geshe-la also offers methods such as breathing meditation to help when we notice challenges arising. Geshe-la encourages us to regularly study the 8 Verses of Mind Training, alongside Buddhist philosophy and psychology. Later, we can return to the 8 Verses and see whether our understanding has developed. He encourages us to check for ourselves the benefits of studying and applying the text. Geshe-la speaks about three important aspects of the path: 1. Stabilising the mind 2. Developing loving-kindness 3. Developing wisdom We finish the class with the Five-Point Meditation Practice: Motivation meditation Breathing practice Breathing meditation Mindfulness of the present moment Analytical meditation