Dear Friends,
Here’s a brief talk you might find helpful to consider before practicing today.
Brian Lesage explores the interplay between effort and letting go, highlighting how wise effort arises from a balanced, relaxed approach rather than striving. He reflects on the role of aspiration–driven by a deep love for the teachings–and its power to fuel practice with sincerity and passion. This talk offers practical insights into sustaining effort while preventing unwholesome tendencies, making it a valuable resource for deepening mindfulness and connection to the path.
2024-11-29 Morning Reflection: Effort and Aspiration 11:02
https://www.dharmaseed.org/talks/87328/
If you would like a guided practice, here is a recording that comes from a retreat I recently attended and highlights the importance of cultivating ease in practice. It begins with a gentle body scan meditation guided by Nikki Mirghafori, inviting a sense of easeful, gentle knowing throughout the body. Tuere Sala then offers walking meditation instructions and encouragement, emphasizing how mindfulness in movement can deepen our connection to presence. These practices remind us of the value of bringing both gentleness and clarity to our practice.
2024-12-10 Morning Instructions: Infusing the Body & the Breath with Easeful, Gentle Knowing 57:54
https://www.dharmaseed.org/talks/87618/
May these recordings support you in balancing effort with ease and nurturing aspiration in your practice. Let us know how this practice resonates with you. Feel free to share your reflections as a comment below or by email.
With good wishes,
Andrea