2009 Seven Point Mind Training RetreatLed by Lama Michael Conklin at KCC The Seven Points of Mind Training (lojong in Tibetan) constitute a system for transforming our ordinary relationships with others and with ourselves into the ground for the cultivation of loving-kindness and insight. This Buddhist practice was initially brought to Tibet in the 11th century by the great Indian Dharma master, Atisha. Since then, all the Tibetan schools have come to treasure it.
This system of training includes instruction on both ultimate and relative bodhicitta practices. Lojong practice is easy to approach, even for the novice, and is well-suited for application in the ordinary circumstances of contemporary life.
These sessions are intended as both a brief introduction for those who are unfamiliar with the Seven Points of Mind Training as well as a refresher and encouragement for those who actively apply these teachings. Independent study and practice will enhance participation. While these teachings are offered without charge, please feel free to support the teachings with a donation. -6.26.09 Track 1 (19. MB) 00:00-- The Buddhist Context: Our commitment and clinging to self-cherishing as the root cause of suffering. 12:00-- Overview of the 7 Points 30:25-- Enjoyment and Integration as critical pieces of the path
-6.26.09 Track 2 (31 MB)
00:00-- Point One: The Preliminaries-- the 4 obstacles and their antidotes (the 4 thoughts)
39:00-- The 8 worldly dharmas
42:05-- Developing a practice
-6.26.09 Track 3 (29 MB)
00:00-- 4 thoughts, Refuge & Bodhichitta
16:50--Point Two: The Main Practice, which is Training in Bodhichitta. Ultimate Bodhichitta--"Contemplate all phenomena as dreamlike".
33:48-- Relative Bodhichitta--Tonglen (Sending & Taking)
-6.26.09 Track 4 (43 MB)
Q & A
00:00-- "What is the suffering of cyclic existence?"
13:40-- "How should I practice with limited time?"
24:00-- "When do you know the mind is stable?"
43:10-- "How do I visualize?"
52:05-- "How do you actually contemplate the 4 thoughts?"
-6.26.09 Track 5 (25 MB)
00:00-- Point Two aphorisms
02:25-- Be a Child of Illusion
05:28-- Giving & Taking
06:21-- In Everything You Do, Practice With Words
10:00-- 3 Objects, 3 Poisons, 3 Roots of Virtue
14:10-- Alternately practice giving and taking. Mount them upon your breath.
23:30-- Compassion and non-referential compassion (path vrs. fruit)
28:35-- The nature of the ground of our being
-6.26.09 Track 6 (38 MB)
00:00-- Guided Meditation
49:13-- Q & A
- "How does one balance good & bad karma?"
- "How or why does karma only ripen once?"
-6.27.09 Track 1 (14 MB)
00:00-- Guided Meditation
-6.27.09 Track 2 (22 MB)
00:00-- Point Three: The Transformation of Bad Circumstances
01:21-- When the whole world is enslaved by vices, transform adversities into the path of spiritual awakening
10:41-- Blame everything on one culprit
11:40-- Reflect on the kindness of all those around you
12:50-- By meditating on delusive appearances as the 4 embodiments, emptiness becomes the best protection
13:25-- The best strategy is to have 4 practices
13:50-- Whatever you encounter immediately apply it to meditation
16:40--Point Four: A Synthesis of Practice for One Life
17:23-- The 5 Strengths
-6.27.09 Track 3 (29 MB)
00:00-- The Mahayana instruction for ejection of consciousness at death is the 5 strengths: how you conduct yourself
is important (Point Four).
30:10-- Point Five: Criterion of Proficiency
41:27-- Point Six: Pledges of Mind Training
-6.27.09 Track 4 (10 MB)
00:00-- Point Seven: The Precepts of Mind Training
05:00-- Make No Mistake
-6.27.09 Track 5 (40 MB)
Q & A
00:00-- "What's the actual order of the meditation practice and when do you practice the slogans?"
15:04-- "Is there such a thing as "cosmic balance" in relation to karma?"
30:00-- "How do I actually relate to my waking experience "like a dream"?"
40:50-- "In sudden death or dementia, are there any special instructions?"
55:29-- "How do I practice shamatha without an object?"
1:04:14-- "What does "Change Your Attitude But Remain Natural" mean?"
-6.27.09 Track 6 (29 MB)
00:00-- Guided Meditation
32:03-- Dharma talk on "Aspirations for Mahamudra" prayer
41:19-- Recitation of "Aspirations for Mahamudra"
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