Living Clarity
By: Kadampa Buddhism
Language: en-US
Categories: Education, Religion, Spirituality, Health, Fitness
Welcome to Kadampa podcasts, where we explore the art of living a happier and more fulfilling life through the teachings and meditations of Kadampa Buddhism. Buddhism is a philosophy and way of life that has been practiced for centuries, and its principles can be applied to our modern world to help us navigate the challenges of daily life with greater ease and compassion. In these podcasts, we'll delve into the core concepts of Buddhist meditation, such as mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom, and explore how they can be applied to our daily lives to cultivate a greater sense of peace, clarity...
Episodes
A wisdom solution for lonliness and grief
Oct 27, 2025Discover one of the main sources of our pain: desirous attachment. This teaching explains how this sneaky mental habit masquerades as a path to happiness, but is in reality deceiving us. Attachment exaggerates the good qualities of someone and erases the bad thereby creating a person who seems to be the key to our happiness but is not! Gen Gomlam explains how to distinguish between attachment and pure love, enabling us build healthy relationships, free from pain. Based on the book How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:20:34Learning Resilience
Oct 20, 2025From a Buddhist perspective, the first step toward true resilience is accepting that hardship, stress, and change are a natural part of being human. Rather than fighting reality or clinging to the idea of “getting back to normal,” resilience invites us to meet life as it is — knowing that we will be changed by our experiences, and that’s okay. What we need is to allow challenges to change us for the better! Resilience doesn’t come from avoiding suffering, but from facing it with patience and compassion.
Duration: 00:13:51Understanding true love
Sep 29, 2025What is true affectionate love? In this extract, Gen-la Khyenrab introduces the beautiful mind of affectionate love, using the analogy of a mother’s delight in her child to illustrate this warm, open-hearted feeling. Discover the main reason we struggle to feel this for everyone and learn the profound yet simple training to change it. Based on the book, Joyful Path of Good Fortune by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:18:39The power of aspiration
Sep 22, 2025Why We Struggle To Slow Down
Sep 15, 2025Explore why our lives feel so complicated and why we’re constantly searching for external happiness. This extract discusses the pitfalls of our ‘always on’ culture and reveals why true contentment requires a shift in focus. Discover the importance of balancing outer accomplishments with inner development to find lasting peace. Based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:17:29Making connections
Sep 08, 2025In today’s fast-paced world, surrounded by constant noise and distraction, it’s easy to feel disconnected from those around us. This sense of isolation can breed misunderstanding and mistrust. In this podcast, Gen Demo explores how recognising our shared humanity can help us foster empathy, build deeper connections, and cultivate greater understanding in our relationships. Book reference How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:17:25Do you know a happy mind?
Sep 03, 2025A thought provoking episode in which Gen-la Dekyong encourages us to think carefully about what the nature of the mind. She explains that true happiness is impossible unless we understand our mind and learn how to work with it effectively. Without this understanding, we often search for happiness in the wrong way—leading to frustration rather than peace. Based on the book How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:18:49The power of patient acceptance
Aug 25, 2025A wonderfully practical episode helping us to understand how it is lack of patience the brings stress and unhappiness in our life. We see how by accepting difficulties in our life we come to experience joy and peace. This podcast is an extract of a talk given at KMC Canada based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:19:53Escaping the prison of your own mind
Jul 21, 2025We live in a “luxurious prison”—comfortable but deceptive. If we don’t recognize our distorted mental constructs, we stay trapped. But by training the mind through spiritual paths and developing renunciation, we can escape suffering and help others do the same. Gen Devi explains Samsara based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:16:14Freedom from the pain and fear of loss
Jul 07, 2025In this moving episode, Gen Gomlam explores the deep emotional pain that arises from our attachments to others. Whether through loss or the fear of losing someone, attachment often becomes a source of ongoing suffering that robs us of inner peace. Gen Gomlam gently challenges us to look beyond the surface of grief and recognize that it is not loss itself, but our attachment, that causes us pain. Through compassionate insight, she shows us how we can begin to let go of attachment—without letting go of love. Based on the book How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Ke...
Duration: 00:22:00Learning From The People Who Challenge You
Jun 30, 2025Kadam Morten talks about how to make sure our relationships are not just harmonious but an opportunity for spiritual growth. Our relationships, even the most challenging ones, become powerful tools for transformation when we understand the benefit of having those challenges in our life. Then, every interaction becomes an opportunity to grow, turning life itself into a meaningful journey toward inner freedom and lasting happiness. Based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:17:37Finding balance in an unbalanced world
Jun 23, 2025In this talk given at Tara KMC Dublin, Kadam Adam Starr encourages us to find balance in our lives—particularly the balance between inner and outer development. He explains that it is through finding this balance that we gain the ability to enjoy our good conditions and achievements, develop harmonious relationships, and, especially, the strength to deal with life’s challenges. Based on the teachings of Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:21:02Are the body and mind the same?
Jun 16, 2025In this podcast, we explore the profound question: Are the body and mind one and the same? Drawing on the logical insights of the Buddha, we examine how the body and mind are, in fact, distinct entities. Understanding this difference can transform the way we experience and live our lives. Join us as we reflect on compelling reasons and everyday examples that reveal the separation between body and mind. Based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. This is an extract of a talk by Gen-la Kelsang Dekyong, Resident Teacher at Manjushri KMC and...
Duration: 00:18:02The Power of Genuine Confidence
Jun 09, 2025Gen Demo illustrates the difference between deluded pride and genuine confidence, revealing three essential forms of self-confidence: in our potential, in our positive actions, and in our ability to overcome obstacles. Through these insights, we learn to cultivate a stable mind free from arrogance or self-doubt. Based on the book How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:20:35Free yourself from stress
May 19, 2025In this talk Gen Devi shows how our self-centered view is at the heart of our experiences of stress. She encourages us to go beyond surface-level stress triggers and explore the deeper mental habits related to grasping at the self, to see how we create the inner tension and unhappiness we experience as stress. Based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:19:56True Happiness: A Buddhist Journey Inward
May 12, 2025What if the happiness you’ve been chasing isn’t out there—but within? Join us for an exploration of the Buddhist view on happiness, which challenges the direction of everyday life. This talk explores why the joy we seek can’t be found in material things or fleeting experiences—and how inner peace is not just a spiritual idea, but a practical path to lasting contentment. Discover how understanding your own mind can transform your relationship with the world and open the door to stable happiness—no matter what life throws your way. This is an extract of a talk by Ge...
Duration: 00:19:14Taming your inner critic
May 05, 2025Kadam Bridget strongly encourages us to monitor our minds throughout the day as a way to prevent negativity and unhappiness. Our inner voice can often be harsh and discouraging. In this talk, we explore the Buddhist understanding of negative self-talk, learning that such thoughts are temporary—but we increase their harmful impact by holding onto them and identifying with them. Kadam Bridget offers practical techniques to notice and release negativity at an early stage, thereby protecting our peace of mind. Book reference: How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:18:55Acceptance through wisdom
Apr 28, 2025In this talk, Gen Khedrub guides us in understanding the power of acceptance in creating harmony in our relationships, and in cultivating happiness and peace of mind within ourselves. Together, we explore the vital difference between genuine love and clinging attachment, discovering how wisdom in our relationships allows us to accept others as they are—without the need to control them. This podcast is an extract of a talk given at KMC Boston based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:18:32The source of our pain - Desirous Attachment
Apr 21, 2025In this inspiring talk, Gen Gomlam explores the difference between love and attachment, revealing how attachment—often mistaken for love—can quietly sabotage our relationships. With warmth and clarity, she shows us that attachment isn’t our ally; it’s actually the hidden poison eroding connection and harmony. But there’s good news: Gen Gomlam introduces a simple shift in mindset that allows us to let go of attachment while deepening genuine love. This transformation feels almost magical, changing the way we see ourselves and others—and opening the door to more joyful, authentic relationships. This is an extract of a talk gi...
Duration: 00:20:13Unmasking False Confidence
Apr 14, 2025In this talk Gen Demo helps us understand the difference between deluded pride and true self-confidence. This episode explores how exaggerating our qualities leads to insecurity and critical mind towards others. On the other hand true confidence gives us freedom to learn, grow, improve and feel comfortable about who we are. Learn to spot the difference and start building something real! Based on the book How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:18:06Joyful Focus: Taming Your Mind's Habits
Apr 07, 2025In this enjoyable podcast, Gen Chodor, Resident Teacher of KMC Canada, explains how to improve our meditative concentration. Discover the four essential steps of meditation: seeking, finding, holding, and remaining. Understand that distraction isn’t the harmless interruption we often assume but rather the primary obstacle to deeper spiritual practice. Learn how mindfulness maintains focus while alertness stands guard against wandering thoughts. Based on the book How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:21:56Unlock Peace: Stress Comes From Within
Mar 31, 2025Discover why stress isn’t caused by external events but primarily by your internal reaction. Learn the Buddhist perspective on identifying the true source of problems – your own mind – and understand why controlling your inner world, not the outer one, is the key to lasting peace. This podcast is an extract from a talk by Gen Devi given at KMC Switzerland. It is based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:21:49Don't worry what people think
Mar 24, 2025In this podcast, we look at the impact of being overly attached to others’ opinions of us. Gen Lekma examines how constantly seeking external validation creates a fragile sense of self that’s vulnerable to criticism and rejection. We see that when our self-worth depends on others’ approval, we develop chronic anxiety about how we’re being perceived. By understanding the way social anxiety develops , we can begin the journey toward a more relaxed life where we make choices aligned with our values rather than being driven by fears of disapproval or rejection. Based on the much loved Buddhist text Adv...
Duration: 00:16:21The point of connection with all living beings
Mar 17, 2025Buddha taught that all living beings are interconnected. In this podcast, Gen Menla shares three reflections that help us overcome the false belief that we are separate from or more important than others. By embracing these reflections, we can cultivate a deep sense of connection, leading us to a beautiful space where we cherish others and genuinely wish for their happiness. Based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:19:23Is universal compassion possible?
Mar 10, 2025In this podcast, Kadam Lucy explores the transformative potential of universal compassion in our divided world. Drawing from ancient Buddhist wisdom and contemporary examples, she examines whether extending compassion to all beings—even those we find difficult—is truly achievable or merely an idealistic aspiration. Based on the book Universal Compassion by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:20:06Know The Mind; Heal Your Life
Mar 03, 2025In this thought-provoking podcast, Kadam Morton explains the fundamental nature of mind, revealing the surprising source of genuine happiness hidden in plain sight. With refreshing clarity and humor, he illuminates how our perceptions shape our reality through relatable, everyday examples. Listeners will gain transformative insights into how experiences—both pleasant and challenging—are ultimately created by our own minds. Based on a talk given at KMC New York City and based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:21:03Overcoming Loneliness through Meditation
Feb 24, 2025Becoming aware of the kindness we encounter every day and throughout our lives is a powerful way to cultivate gratitude and overcome feelings of isolation. As we begin to recognize these acts of kindness, our minds open, fostering a sense of connection with others and helping to dissolve loneliness. In this talk, Gen Gomlam guides us on how to reflect on the kindness we’ve received, allowing us to realize that we are not isolated individuals, but deeply interconnected with those around us. This episode is based on a talk given by Gen Gomlam, the Teacher at KMC Florida an...
Duration: 00:18:31What is truly to blame?
Feb 18, 2025In society, we often seek something or someone to blame for our problems. Whether it’s ourselves, others, or external circumstances, the list of potential culprits is endless. However, the thoughts that arise when we point the finger are often negative, leaving us feeling unhappy and discouraged. This episode explores a different perspective on blame—how shifting our understanding of what’s truly responsible for our struggles can help us break free from negativity and find greater peace of mind. By clearly identifying the source, we can liberate ourselves from the weight of blame and its harmful effects. Based on the...
Duration: 00:18:07What is truly to blame?
Feb 17, 2025In society, we often seek something or someone to blame for our problems. Whether it’s ourselves, others, or external circumstances, the list of potential culprits is endless. However, the thoughts that arise when we point the finger are often negative, leaving us feeling unhappy and discouraged. This episode explores a different perspective on blame—how shifting our understanding of what’s truly responsible for our struggles can help us break free from negativity and find greater peace of mind. By clearly identifying the source, we can liberate ourselves from the weight of blame and its harmful effects. Based on the...
Duration: 00:18:57Beyond Appearances: the Wisdom of Emptiness
Feb 10, 2025All wisdom paves the way to happiness, but the highest wisdom—the wisdom of non-ignorance, or the wisdom that realizes ultimate truth—holds the key to lasting peace. This profound understanding of emptiness removes suffering at its root, offering us freedom from all pain. Gen-la Dekyong beautifully introduces this transformative wisdom through three powerful analogies given by Buddha. These analogies help us to see how things may seem to exist in one way, but in truth, they exist in a much deeper, more profound way than we initially realize. The podcast is an extract from a talk based on the...
Duration: 00:21:32Buddhist Teachings Offer Hope
Feb 03, 2025This podcast offers an insightful yet practical exploration of Buddhism, with a special focus on Kadampa Buddhism. Kadam Bridget delves into the core idea that Buddhist teachings are designed to protect the mind. She explains that without this protection, especially in the face of the constant stimuli of daily life, achieving true happiness becomes difficult. Through the podcast, she illustrates how the wisdom of Dharma can be seamlessly integrated into our everyday lives, helping to enhance our happiness and mental well-being. The podcast is an extract from a talk based on the book Modern Buddhism by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso...
Duration: 00:21:01Peace and Flexibility in Meditation
Jan 27, 2025In this podcast, Gen Menla explores the benefits of concentration and mindfulness, helping us understand that they are not rigid, static states of mind, but dynamic practices that help us to evolve through the cultivation of our inner good qualities. We also learn how training in concentration brings both physical and mental comfort, fostering greater well-being and stability. An extract from a teaching given in KMC Dallas based on the book How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:20:22The nature of your mind is extraordinary
Jan 20, 2025Understanding the nature of our mind and the different levels of consciousness opens the door to a true and profound understanding of reality. According to Buddhism, misunderstanding the nature of our reality is the root cause of many of our problems and suffering. In this incredibly inspiring podcast, Kadam Morton encourages us to follow in the footsteps of the great meditators of the past, to get to know our minds, and to experience the extraordinary peace and flexibility that this brings. This is an extract from a teaching given in Kadampa Meditation Center New York City based on the...
Duration: 00:20:38Self Confidence, Acceptance and Peace
Jan 13, 2025By gaining a deeper understanding of the nature of our mind, we free ourselves from identifying with our faults and painful emotions, allowing us to stop being controlled by them. This ability to step back from the grip of negative feelings forms the foundation of stable self-confidence and lasting inner peace. This is an extract of a teaching by Kadam Tim Laracombe based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:21:43Self Confidence, Acceptance and Peace
Jan 13, 2025By gaining a deeper understanding of the nature of our mind, we free ourselves from identifying with our faults and painful emotions, allowing us to stop being controlled by them. This ability to step back from the grip of negative feelings forms the foundation of stable self-confidence and lasting inner peace. This is an extract of a teaching by Kadam Tim Laracombe based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:17:34The key to beating distraction
Jan 06, 2025To make meaningful progress in meditation or to gain greater control over our minds in daily life, we must learn to manage and overcome distractions. Gen Demo provides insightful guidance on how to recognize and prevent distractions from derailing our focus. She highlights that it’s not just about managing external interruptions, but also about cultivating an inner determination to stop distractions before they take hold. By developing this mental resolve, we can create the conditions necessary for sustained focus and deeper meditation, ultimately leading to greater clarity and mindfulness in all areas of life. Book reference Universal Compassion by...
Duration: 00:18:57A Life of Profound Purpose
Dec 31, 2024In this podcast, from Kadam Lucy James, learn why now is the only time to take the real meaning of human life, which is the attainment of enlightenment. Now, now today! Tomorrow is too far off. An extract from a teaching given in KMC New York based on the book Joyful Path of Good Fortune by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:20:56Making new habits for happiness
Dec 26, 2024Gen-la Kelsang Dekyong explores the essential relationship between inner peace and happiness. Drawing on the teachings of Venerable Geshe Kalsang Gyatso Rinpoche, she emphasizes that true happiness stems from a peaceful mind rather than external conditions. Despite the allure of material possessions and favorable circumstances, real contentment is achievable only through cultivating inner peace. Dekyong outlines spiritual practices to develop a peaceful mind, such as moral discipline, giving, and patience, encouraging listeners to transform challenges into opportunities for growth.
The teaching focuses on the fundamental Buddhist principle that true happiness comes from inner peace rather t...
Duration: 00:18:23Do we really have a connection with all living beings?
Dec 16, 2024One of the methods for improving and extending our mind of love is to realise we are all connected to each other, we are not islands, isolated from each other. In this podcast Gen Menla explores the Buddhist teaching that all beings have been our mothers in previous lives and have shown us great kindness. When we develop this view we feel an incredible sense of connection and awaken our mind of affectionate love. He encourages us to adopt this view simply because it brings great happiness. An extract from a teaching given in KMC Texas based on the...
Duration: 00:20:01Healing our vulnerabilities
Dec 09, 2024In this podcast, Gen Thekchen explores how our attachment to the pursuit of happiness can make us vulnerable, leading to a dependence on external factors that fuel our restlessness and dissatisfaction. He emphasizes that by practicing the mind-training teachings of the Buddha, we can cultivate mental resilience and create the inner space needed to genuinely experience and enjoy life. An extract from a teaching given in KMC Ottowa based on the book The New Eight Steps to Happiness by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:20:25Where and how we can find true happiness
Dec 03, 2024This practical podcast from Kadam Tim Laracombe invites us to pause and reflect on where our true enjoyment comes from. It encourages us to slow down, keep a peaceful mind and savor the pleasant feeling in the mind, rather than constantly rushing toward the next thing. Through this approach, the podcast helps us realize that what we are truly seeking isn’t fleeting distractions, but lasting, permanent happiness. This extract is based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Available as a free download Kadam Tim is the teacher in KMC Copenhagen, Denmark.
Duration: 00:17:34Taking Control of Your Future
Nov 25, 2024Without understanding karma, we often find ourselves questioning why certain things happen to us and feeling powerless to change them. This podcast provides an insightful overview of karma and its impact on our lives. By offering a deeper understanding, it empowers us with the tools to transform our circumstances and guide our lives in the direction we desire. This extract is from a teaching given by Kadam Bridget Heyes based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:20:22What is the function of meditation?
Nov 18, 2024Can meditation change our lives? Gen Devi helps us understand that it can—and explains why. She reveals that meditation, if we choose to embrace it, can provide a completely new perspective on life, leading to a transformed experience of the world around us. Drawing insights from the book Mirror of Dharma, she offers practical advice to guide us in mastering the art of meditation.
Duration: 00:19:57A simple path to optimism
Nov 11, 2024This podcast discusses the relationship between allowing our minds to become distracted and developing mental disturbances that we recognize as painful. With this understanding, we can appreciate the importance of controlling our distractions. Gen Demo then explains in detail how to practice a simple breathing meditation, highlighting how it can create the space and calm we need to develop a more optimistic outlook on life. This talk is based on the book The New Meditation Handbook by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:19:37Practicing beneficial states of mind
Oct 21, 2024Controlling our delusions is of utmost importance for everyone, as no one wants to suffer, and deluded minds are often the source of suffering. Understanding this can inspire us to cultivate the beneficial thoughts that counteract these delusions. In this podcast, Gen-la Dekyong encourages us to develop positive mindsets. She emphasizes that becoming someone who consistently feels positive, happy, and peaceful is achievable for everyone with practice. This talk was given at Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre, and is based on on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Available as a free download
Duration: 00:22:09Our longing for peace actually destroys it!
Oct 14, 2024In today’s fast-paced world, we often find ourselves yearning for peace of mind. However, our attachment to achieving this calm can ironically lead to frustration and unhappiness, encounter obstacles that hinder our pursuit. In this podcast, Gen Tekchen explores how the quest for peace if not guided by wisdom can ultimately create more problems, and shows how the solution is a deep understanding of where peace comes from. Join us as we delve into a deeper understanding of where genuine peace originates and how we can cultivate it in our lives. This talk is based on on the bo...
Duration: 00:19:20Changing our Relationships
Oct 07, 2024In this discussion, Gen Rabten explores how we can train our minds and, consequently, our experiences, including how we perceive others. He emphasizes the importance of shifting our perspective to maintain a consistently positive view of those around us. Initially, this requires some effort, but with practice, it can become our natural way of seeing others. Developing this ability will empower us to cultivate beneficial relationships in all aspects of our lives. An extract from a teaching given in KMC Australia based on the book How to Solve our Huma Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:19:20Why Lasting Happiness is Possible
Sep 30, 2024This simple but inspiring podcast helps us to understand and believe that the source of happiness is always within us. This potential for happiness is vast and will eventually become our natural state of being but we need to believe that finding lasting peace is possible and learn how to access this peace. This talk is from a talk given in KMC New York City by Kadam Morton Clausen and is based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Available as a free download at howtotyl.com.
Duration: 00:18:09Preparing your mind for meditation
Sep 23, 2024In this podcast, Gen Demo shares invaluable insights on cultivating realistic expectations and honing effective preparations for meditation. This episode is perfect for beginners just starting their meditation journey, as well as a refreshing reminder for seasoned practitioners. Tune in to discover practical tips that will enhance your meditation and mindfulness. Reference the book Joyful Path of Good Fortune by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:12:50Making Wise Choices
Sep 16, 2024In this captivating talk, Gen Zamling invites us to embark on a thought-provoking journey of self-discovery. He challenges us to reflect on the minds we identify with and inspires us to make purposeful and wise choices. By letting go of the self that leads to suffering, we can cultivate a new sense of self rooted in happiness and benefit for ourselves and those around us. This transformative path leads us towards becoming what Buddha referred to as a Bodhisattva—a person dedicated to the welfare of all. The beautiful truth is that each of us possesses the potential to st...
Duration: 00:18:44Inner Development
Sep 09, 2024Join Gen-la Dekyong as she invites us to ponder profound questions that shape our lives. What is the true meaning of our existence? What brings us genuine happiness? How can we best serve others? And as we approach the end of our lives, what insights will guide us? Can you find the answers within yourself? Tune in to discover valuable insights and reflections that could transform your perspective. This podcast is based on a talk given by Gen-la Dekyong at Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre
Duration: 00:17:16What is distraction?
Aug 26, 2024Distractions often go unnoticed, yet they pose a significant barrier to our peace of mind, happiness, and spiritual growth. Hence, it is essential for us to learn how to minimize these distractions. In a talk given at the NKT International Summer Festival, Gen-la Jampa discusses the impact of distractions on our lives and offers guidance on cultivating a strong resolve to overcome them. By making this decision we can stop mental clutter, attain a state of inner peace, and advance on our spiritual journey. This explanation was based on the book How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang...
Duration: 00:10:18Training in Pure Love
Aug 19, 2024Training in healing practice meditations
Aug 12, 2024Painful Feelings
Jul 08, 2024Painful feelings are simply some bad weather in the mind. They are impermanent and will pass quickly if we don’t focus on them. In this podcast Gen Zamling shows how to use the analogy of a thunderstorm in the sky having no power to destroy us, to free our mind from painful feelings and be at peace. An extract from a teaching given in KMC Chicago based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:19:44Recognising causes of distraction and pain
Jul 02, 2024In this podcast Gen Menla gives some encouragement to train in watching our mind so that we will be able to carry our calm centre with us. He goes on to focus on the delusion of self-cherishing, which constantly disturbs our mind and is the biggest obstacle to our happiness. This is an extract from a teaching given at KMC Texas based on the book The New Eight Steps to Happiness by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:18:26I myself must make myself happy
Jun 24, 2024A great introduction to why Buddhists say that happiness depends on the mind. In this podcast Gen Demo explains that we can understand from our own experience that our happiness must depend on our mind. She uses everyday examples that we can easily relate to and so come to our own conclusions on this important topic. This is an extract from a teaching based on the book How to Transform your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:18:06Bringing More Joy to Our Life
Jun 17, 2024In this podcast we explore good habits of mind that help us train in being more joyful, more of the time and more reliably. We can train to improve our perception of our own life and those around us by simply giving attention to different aspects of things. This simple technique will uplift our day immediately. This is an extract from a teaching with Gen Lekma at KMC Southampton.
Duration: 00:19:22Love, Desire and Relationships
Jun 10, 2024In this podcast learn how desirous attachment in our close relationships is almost always confused for love. Even though they have opposite effects, love giving rise to happiness in the relationship, attachment causing problems and unhappiness in the relationship, it is not easy for us to distinguish between them without receiving teachings. This is a very helpful explanation that gives real insight into why we struggle with relationships. The teaching is based on the book The New Eight Steps to Happiness by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:19:29Having confidence in yourself
Jun 03, 2024What is the purpose of my life?
May 20, 2024If we ask what is happiness we find people have many different ideas and it is difficult to say clearly what the experience of happiness really is. Buddha said that our normal experience of happiness is simply a reduction of our previous suffering and that is not good enough. He encouraged us to look further and find the source of genuine happiness in the mind, especially through the mind of love. This teaching is based on the instruction given in the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:17:52Understanding real happiness?
May 16, 2024If we ask what is happiness we find people have many different ideas and it is difficult to say clearly what the experience of happiness really is. Buddha said that our normal experience of happiness is simply a reduction of our previous suffering and that is not good enough. He encouraged us to look further and find the source of genuine happiness in the mind, especially through the mind of love. This teaching is based on the instruction given in the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:18:13What do we meditate on?
May 13, 2024The intention we have in our heart is what we follow, so setting our positive determinations in meditation allows us to keep our mind in a positive state throughout the day. In this podcast Kadam Bridget explains the importance of learning to meditate on a determination and how to train in doing this. More information on how to meditate can be found in The New Meditation Handbook
Duration: 00:13:36Compassion empowers us to change our world
May 09, 2024In this podcast we contemplate that since we do not exist objectively we have the extraordinary opportunity for change and growth. This is the best news – change your mind, change your world. If we then go on to contemplate the constantly changing experiences of all living beings we develop profound compassion for them. This is an extract from a talk given by Kadam Morten at KMC New York City.
Duration: 00:20:42How to change challenging circumstances
May 02, 2024If we watch our thoughts we may find that we often wish that things were other than they are and this brings continuous dissatisfaction and unhappiness. The practice of patient acceptance solves all the problems associated with this discontented mind. Gen Devi shows how to develop acceptance through finding another way to respond to painful feelings so that they do not trigger a habitual but unhelpful response. This is an extract from a talk given at KMC Switzerland and is based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:19:38The practice of watching the mind
Apr 29, 2024Gen Demo suggests we can use our ability to watch and size-up other people to improve our own happiness. We can learn to be an observer and scientist investigating our states of mind and seeing what experiences they lead to. She encourages us to really investigate how our way of thinking about things influences our experiences and then asking what if I thought differently? This perspective not only opens the door to self-improvement but also highlights the power of mindset in shaping our happiness. This extract is taken from a talk given by Gen Kelsang Demo Resident Teacher at...
Duration: 00:22:39Think Yourself Happy: The Power of the Mind
Apr 25, 2024This podcast looks at how to change what we focus on in life so that we change our experience. The mind has the power to make us happy or unhappy and we can bring happiness into our mind by simply acknowledging the good things in our life, the kindness others are showing us, along with the good qualities of others.
Duration: 00:15:01What is Buddhist faith
Apr 22, 2024We can deepen our understanding and faith in Buddhism by experiencing firsthand how the teachings of the Buddha, shield us from suffering and life’s challenges. Through this insight, we cultivate a stronger belief in the Buddha, recognizing how his blessings empower us to release our negative thoughts and embrace the positive states of mind that offer true protection. This podcast is an extract from a teaching given by Kadam Bridget Hayes at Nagarjuna KMC, UK. It is based on the book Modern Buddhism by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso https://tharpa.com/us/modern-buddhism-free-ebook
Duration: 00:18:28How our thoughts create us
Apr 18, 2024Buddha’s profound statement, “You are not who you think you are,” invites us to re-examine our deeply ingrained beliefs about our identity. Many of us carry a fixed sense of self, convinced that this is our unchanging essence. However, in a compelling teaching delivered during the New Year, Kadam Morten encourages us to delve deeper into this notion of self. He guides us to question the very nature of our identity and illuminates how our perceptions shape and continuously redefine who we are. By embracing this understanding, we can experience a profound sense of liberation, freeing ourselves from the co...
Duration: 00:19:57The three Higher Trainings are the method to get out of suffering
Apr 15, 2024What makes the three higher trainings ‘higher’? – The motivation of renunciation. The teachings on the three higher trainings show us how to liberate ourself from all the sufferings of samsara The first higher training is moral discipline. And Gen-la Khyenrab explains this practice in some detail in this podcast.
Duration: 00:19:09Find Your Happy Life
Apr 11, 2024In this talk by Gen-la Dekyong we learn why everybody needs to be good natured with a good heart. Whatever is happening in our life, and whoever is appearing in our life, “I need to be good natured with a good heart.” Why? Because in this way, we can solve our own problems, as well as those of others. This podcast is an extract of a public talk given at Manjushri KMC based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:20:55How to meditate on cherishing others
Apr 08, 2024Our empathy for others is the key to learning to cherish them. Remembering how others wish to be free from suffering and problems in the same way that we do we will naturally think their happiness and freedom is important just as we presently believe our happiness and freedom to be important. This is an extract from a teaching given by Gen-la Jampa at IKRC Grand Canyon. It is based on the Meditations for a Kind Heart series of guided meditations available from Tharpa.com
Duration: 00:15:17Dealing with Painful Feelings
Apr 04, 2024Learning to accept painful feelings is a great way to free your mind from tension and anxiety. Here Gen Rigpa talks about the various encounters we have during the day that would normally trigger negative reactions and how we can avoid this by patient acceptance which gives us the space to put things in perspective and find a positive response. This podcast is an extract from a talk given by Gen Rigpa in KMC Los Angeles. It is based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:14:54The Power to Change
Apr 01, 2024Learning to stop identifying with a self that has a problem is a powerful tool for bringing about transformation and freeing ourself from whatever problem is affecting us. In this podcast Kadam Lucy explains how to do this using the example of anxiety. This is from an extract of a teaching given in KMC NYC.
Duration: 00:19:20Mind is the creator of all
Mar 28, 2024Delusions distort our perception of reality and disrupt our mental peace. They are responsible for projecting negative feelings towards the world and others. However, by recognising this, we open the door to transforming our worldview. Gen-la Khyenrab elaborates on how this realization grants us the remarkable ability to alter our life's course. This podcast is an extract of a teaching given at Tara IKRC based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:20:11The real meaning of cherishing others?
Mar 25, 2024In this podcast Gen-la Jampa teaches how developing the belief ’this person is important their happiness matters’ will change our life for the better. If we believe this it will naturally influence our feelings and behaviour towards others so we will always act with kindness and have good relationships that bring joy. As Buddha says the mind that cherishes others is the best method to make ourself and others happy. This podcast is an extract from a talk given by Gen-la Jampa at IKRC Grand Canyon. It is based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kels...
Duration: 00:17:52The journey of forgiving ourself and forgiving others
Mar 18, 2024Gen Demo reminds us that assigning blame to ourselves or others is a fruitless endeavor that only serves to erode our self-confidence and breed animosity towards those around us. Rather than fixating on our imperfections, Gen Demo encourages us to recognize that imperfections do not define us and are not inherently part of us. We can cultivate a more realistic, and positive mindset by shifting our focus to embrace the pure underlying nature our mind, which is like a clear sky, instead of dwelling on the passing storm clouds of our faults. This podcast is an extract from a talk...
Duration: 00:20:47Creating happiness and suffering within our mind
Mar 11, 2024Gen-la Dekyong beautifully articulates the profound connection between our actions and their consequences on our inner and outer world. Every action we perform leaves a potentiality in our mind that later ripens as either a positive or a negative experience.This powerful insight reminds us that the key to transforming our experience lies with us. By turning our mind to others and thinking about their experiences, we naturally change our behaviour and reduce our own suffering. This podcast is an extract from a talk given by Gen-la Dekyong in Buenos Aires. It is based on the book How to Solve...
Duration: 00:16:56What is destroying your joy?
Mar 07, 2024Buddha explains that there are three root delusions that make us un-peaceful - ignorance, attachment and anger. In this podcast In a recent podcast, Gen Demo delves into how anger can distort our perceptions and disrupt our peace of mind. Through compelling stories, she vividly demonstrates the detrimental impact of anger on our ability to maintain peace of mind and find joy in our experiences. This is an extract taken from a teaching given by Gen Demo at Kadampa Meditation Centre DC and is based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:20:23Respecting Others
Mar 04, 2024We may think of humility as putting ourself down, but in reality this is not humility. Humility is more about respecting others and appreciating everyone. This view brings a sense of balance and happiness. In this podcast Gen Lekma delves into the essence of humility, guiding us to recognize its profound impact and inspiring us to embody this quality in our interactions with others. This extract is taken from a talk given by Gen Kelsang Lekma at KMC Southampton. It is based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:14:50How to Have Real Confidence
Feb 29, 2024Our inflated self image takes a lot to keep up and to manage. Real confidence has humility and isn't based on our own importance. We accept ourself as we are -- from that we can make progress towards a more happier self. This extract is taken from a teaching given by Gen Kelsang Norbu at KMC North Carolina, US and is based on the book The New Eight Steps to Happiness by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:18:15A mind as stable as a mountain
Feb 26, 2024Gen-la Dekyong inspires us to understand that patient acceptance is an inner strength. It is not a passive reaction but rather a strong active response to difficulty. Patience keeps our mind stable and peaceful - as stable as a mountain and as peaceful as the depths of an ocean. This is an extract from a talk given in Buenos Aires based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:19:01Resolving Relationship Difficulties
Feb 22, 2024Relationships are the cornerstone of our lives, and they have the power to bring immense joy or unbearable pain. Therefore, it's crucial to take care of them and ensure they remain strong. In this regard, Gen Rabten has some invaluable insights on how to safeguard our relationships and keep them thriving so that they bring us continual happiness.
Duration: 00:10:25The capacity of the mind is infinite
Feb 15, 2024The human mind has an amazing capacity for happiness and peace. However, most of us struggle to tap into this potential. The good news is that we can learn to progress through various levels of happiness by following the teachings of Buddha. In this short talk, Kadam Bridget shares insights on how we can inspire ourselves to progress towards our full potential day by day. By taking small steps towards inner peace and happiness, we can eventually unlock our infinite potential. This is taken from a teaching given by KBH at Nagarjuna KMC Thornby Hall, UK and is based on...
Duration: 00:11:01How to make happiness a certainty
Feb 12, 2024Gen-la Jampa's insightful analysis highlights an important truth that is often overlooked in today's world. While it is true that technology and external material conditions have improved our lives in countless ways, it is equally true that they cannot bring us lasting happiness. Ultimately, it is only by improving ourselves that we can truly benefit from the technology and material conditions that surround us. Then our happiness will no longer be uncertain! This extract is taken from a talk given by Gen-la Jampa at IKRC Grand Canyon, Arizona, US. It is based on the book Mirror of Dharma https://kadampa...
Duration: 00:22:41Strengthening mindfulness of the mind of love
Feb 08, 2024During this podcast, Gen Lekma emphasizes the significance of cultivating our good intentions and turning them into firm determinations. In meditation on love we feel positive and happy, but we often lose these feelings outside of meditation. This is usually because we lack mindfulness, which can be traced back to having a weak determination to maintain a loving mind. This extract is taken from a talk given by Gen Kelsang Lekma at KMC Southampton. It is based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:18:21Where do our painful feelings come from?
Feb 05, 2024Learning to sit quietly and simply look at how we feel is a skill, it is an art. But by doing this we develop the ability to not to be intimidated and overwhelmed by our feelings. Then we can learn to change the narrative! This extract is taken from a talk given by Gen Kelsang Chodor at KMC Canada. It is based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Duration: 00:19:45How compassion solves suffering
Feb 01, 2024In this podcast, we learn about the nature and power of compassion and how by invoking it we can gain an actual superpower. We awaken and evolve ourself to be the purest version of ourself through the power of compassion. This talk is an extract from a teaching given by Gen Devi at Kadampa Meditation Center Switzerland. Read more in the book Modern Buddhism, which is also available as a free ebook.
Duration: 00:21:17Get a delicious taste of patient acceptance
Jan 29, 2024Patient acceptance is much more than just gritting our teeth and putting up with things. In this podcast Gen-la explains that it is only by experiencing true patience that we will come to know the real freedom that it gives us. This extract is taken from a teaching given by Gen-la Dekyong at Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre, UK and is based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. https://kadampa.org/book/how-to-solve-our-human-problems
Duration: 00:19:37The science of happiness
Jan 25, 2024“When the turbulence of distracting thoughts subsides and our mind becomes still, a deep happiness and contentment naturally arises from within.” In this podcast Kadam Morten encourages us to realize the truth of these words and explains how this experience sets us free. This teaching is based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Available as a free ebook download.
Duration: 00:21:22The first steps to developing mental resilience
Jan 22, 2024A podcast to encourage us if we are feeling down on ourself. Through developing a realistic view of life's challenges and accepting them, we prepare the ground to deal with our problems. This is taken from a teaching given by KBH at Nagarjuna KMC Thornby Hall, UK and is based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:20:14The real reason for unhappiness
Jan 18, 2024Self-cherishing is a state of mind that can be incredibly detrimental to our overall well-being. Despite this fact, it can be tricky to recognize as it often disguises itself as a friend. Gen Dornying offers valuable insight into the true nature of this mindset and helps us understand how it can lead us down the path of suffering. By exploring our relationship with self-cherishing, we can gain a better understanding of how it affects us and take steps towards a happier, healthier mindset. This extract is taken from a talk given by Gen Kelsang Dornying at KMC Edinburgh, Scotland It...
Duration: 00:13:49Using logical reasoning to find happiness
Jan 16, 2024As human beings, we share the fundamental desire of seeking happiness. However, it is crucial to understand that true happiness cannot be found unless we know how to achieve it. Gen-la Jampa, emphasizes the importance of following the advice of Buddha and utilizing logical reasoning to comprehend the path towards genuine happiness. By doing so, we can develop unshakable faith in this method and apply it in our daily lives. As a result, we can attain the happiness we seek and fulfill our desires. This extract is taken from a talk given by Gen-la Jampa at IKRC Grand Canyon, Arizona...
Duration: 00:22:41Using logical reasoning to find happiness
Jan 15, 2024As human beings, we share the fundamental desire of seeking happiness. However, it is crucial to understand that true happiness cannot be found unless we know how to achieve it. Gen-la Jampa, emphasizes the importance of following the advice of Buddha and utilizing logical reasoning to comprehend the path towards genuine happiness. By doing so, we can develop unshakable faith in this method and apply it in our daily lives. As a result, we can attain the happiness we seek and fulfill our desires. This extract is taken from a talk given by Gen-la Jampa at IKRC Grand Canyon, Arizona...
Duration: 00:22:41The special qualities of Kadampa Buddhism
Jan 11, 2024Kadam Lamrim possesses a unique quality - it is not exclusive to Buddhists and can be beneficial to people of all beliefs. Gen Ananda delves into the reasons behind this inclusive nature and offers guidance on how to incorporate the essence of Kadam Dharma into our day-to-day existence. By doing so, every moment of our lives becomes imbued with purpose and happiness.This extract is taken from a talk given by Gen Kelsang Ananda at KMC Stockholm, Sweden. It is based on the book Modern Buddhism by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Available as a free download from emodernbuddhism.com
Duration: 00:21:57Why do we get angry?
Jan 08, 2024Anger is a powerful emotion that can often leave us feeling helpless, frustrated, and out of control. However, Gen-la Dekyong gives us the good news that understanding why we get angry can actually be our greatest ally in developing a more constructive response to life's challenges. This extract is taken from a teaching given by Gen-la Dekyong at Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre, UK and is based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:14:03Meditation is a Training
Jan 04, 2024This podcast offers encouragement to keep going and enjoy training in meditation, through recognising that we all have the potential for pure happiness and have found the conditions needed to realise that potential. This extract is taken from a teaching given by Kadam Morten at KMC NYC and is based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. It is available as a free ebook download in seven languages at howtotyl.com
Duration: 00:19:05Finding Peace
Jan 01, 2024Based on the book How to Transform Your Life, Gen Tubchen explains why meditation is essential for peace and happiness. She helps us see that developing better external conditions will never bring lasting happiness, instead we need to develop good internal conditions - improving the quality of our minds. By enhancing the quality of our thoughts and emotions through meditation, we can create a foundation for true contentment and fulfilment in life. This extract is taken from a teaching given by Gen Tubchen at KMC Aberdeen, UK.
Duration: 00:21:17Flexibility and Mental Strength
Dec 28, 2023Kadam Bridget explains that practising patient acceptance reduces our pain and allows us to let go and feel happier. It is therefore an indispensable tool for developing mental strength. This is taken from a teaching given by Kadam Bridget Heyes at Nagarjuna KMC Thornby Hall, UK and is based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:13:11Training in breathing meditation and beyond
Dec 20, 2023Here Gen Norbu presents meditation as a step by step approach to developing a better state of mind. First using breathing meditation to calm the mind. Then looking at how meditation can address specific, practical problems. This extract is taken from a teaching given by Gen Kelsang Norbu at KMC North Carolina, US and is based on the book Introduction to Buddhism by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
Duration: 00:19:37