Shows
Undefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Undefended Heart - Now More Than EverTo live with an undefended heart is a cornerstone of Mary's practice and teaching. However with all the challenges in today's world, does it still make sense. In this talk Mary discusses what it means to live this way and how it is more important than ever right now. Keeping our hearts open is the path to freedom and allows us to be fully present for each moment - whatever it brings.Recorded June 28, 2025 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would...
2025-07-0132 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageSangha as Beloved CommunityThe Buddha created the sangha, or community, of monastics, but his teaching spread to every level of society and we can each be part of a sangha. In this talk Mary discusses the ethical foundations of such a community and how we can create a wise and supportive community where we are. Recalling the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King's idea that we "are tied together in a single garment of destiny, caught in an inescapable net of mutuality" and Thich Nhat Hanh's idea of Interbeing, Mary invites us to reflect on community or sangha in our own lives.
2025-06-1721 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageCare for Ourselves, Care for OthersReflecting on the Rajan Sutta, Mary talks about the twofold teaching it offers. Just as we hold ourselves dear, we realized that others feel the same and knowing this, we vow to cause no harm. However, this can be a challenging practice and Mary offers thoughts on what might get in the way and how we can begin to hold both ourselves and others with kindness and compassion.Recorded April 5, 2025 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response...
2025-04-0819 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageSuffering and JoySuffering and Joy seem incompatible, but in this talk Mary shows how they are not mutually exclusive. Joy is not dependent on outside circumstances. As teacher Larry Ward has said, "Joy is possible in the midst of suffering and without ignoring the suffering." Using the wisdom of several authors, Mary talks about how we can access joy without waiting for everything to be okay. With our practice we create the conditions for joy to arise at any time.Recorded Nov. 23, 2024 in the virtual worldBooks mentioned in this talk:Joy is My Justice by Taneet S...
2024-11-2624 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageSati - Being WithThe Pali word Sati is generally translated as mindfulness, but it can mean so much more. In this talk Mary reflects on all the different, yet similar meanings of the word, emphasizing how close it is to the idea of equanimity - being with the present moment, without preference or needing it to be different. Drawing from Bhante Gunaratana's classic, Mindfulness in Plain English, Mary offers ways to make this core teaching meaningful for each of us. Mary also reflects on the power of Sati during her recent hospital stay.Recorded Oct. 5, 2024 in the virtual world
2024-10-0821 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageIt's All RealIn this talk Mary discusses the concept of samvega which means the experience we feel when we finally see through the delusion and stories that we have believed and used to guide our lives. It can be a shocking experience and an example is when the Buddha saw a sick person, an old person and a corpse. He experienced samvega. This feeling can help us move along a spiritual path and Mary talks about the benefit of seeing clearly and the faith and trust, or pasada, which enables us to move along this spiritual path towards liberation. Recorded Fe...
2024-02-1332 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageKisa Gotami: Grief, Loss, CommunityThe story of Kisa Gotami is one of the most famous in the Pali Canon. It's the story of a mother who loses her only child and is so overcome with grief she cannot accept reality. Mary discusses the lessons this story can teach us about touching our pain and the importance of recognizing that none of us are doing this by ourselves and that grief and loss are universal.Recorded Dec. 11, 2021 in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response...
2021-12-1427 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageStay the CourseIn this short talk Mary discusses the importance of staying with a practice even when the going gets tough. There is a tendency today to jump from one practice to another, cobbling together a piecemeal spiritual program. This happens especially when the practice becomes challenging or difficult. Instead, make a commitment to get the full benefit, whichever practice you choose and don't miss out on the subtleties - the places that lead transformation and liberation.Recorded Nov. 27, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if...
2021-11-3018 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageA Beneficial AlternativeHow do we keep an open heart with the craziness of the world today? In this talk Mary invites us to consider gratitude and generosity as the heart's antidote to becoming enmeshed in the greed, anger and ignorance that seem to be everywhere we look. This is not about a spiritual bypass, but instead a way to be with the world more deeply and intimately. Recorded Nov. 13, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically...
2021-11-1629 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageWhat is Insight? We practice Vipassana or Insight Meditation, and we speak about insight regularly, but what is is really? Vipassana is often translated as seeing the true nature of reality and Mary discusses how the teachings offer a way to dissolve delusion and break through the ignorance that we are often trapped by. The path offers us a way to insight, discernment, wisdom, and ultimately, liberation. Recorded Oct. 30, 2021 in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks....
2021-11-0227 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe MahasanghaAs used here, the Mahasanga (Great Community) refers to the breadth and width of Buddhist practitioners throughout the world. In this talk, Mary discusses the value of looking beyond the tradition you practice in to see the wisdom contained in the larger dharma community. and shares some of the ideas offered at this year's Dharma Teachers Conference - wisdom from around the world and through the ages.Recorded Oct. 23, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not...
2021-10-2628 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageNothing Lasts Forever Whether we like it or not, impermanence is a way of life. In fact the Buddha taught that it was one of the three characteristics of existence yet we still try to hold on to things, ideas, and experiences even after they've ended. In this talk Mary discusses the subtle ways we struggle with this truth and how to recognize it and to learn to let go. Recorded Oct. 16, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not in...
2021-10-1830 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageI See You Mara In Buddhist teachings Mara is seen as the personification of greed, anger and delusion and stands in the way of our liberation. In this talk Mary offers ways to identify Mara in our own lives which gives us the opportunity to say, "I see you Mara" and choose the path of freedom. Recorded Oct. 7, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2021-10-1129 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Human Condition The term Human Condition can sum up our experiences on this planet, whether we admit to it our not. The Human Condition is also what the Buddha teaches in the First and Second Noble Truth especially. In this talk, Mary takes a look at what the Human Condition means for each of us and how we can move to a place of greeting and ultimately embracing it. Recorded Oct. 2, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not in...
2021-10-0528 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageI'm So Happy for You!Appreciative Joy, or Mudita, is one of the heart practices and often considered the most difficult. This is an altruistic expression of joy for the good fortune and happiness of others and is an important practice to cultivate generosity of the heart and mind. It's difficult because we are caught up in craving and a sense of lack. Mary discusses how to recognize what gets in the way and move into a place of sharing the joy.Recorded Sept. 23, 2021 in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and e...
2021-09-2838 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Meaning of Life Often we latch on to the search for meaning, happiness or bliss and think they are "out there" waiting to be found or achieved. Drawing heavily on the work of Viktor Frankl, Mary reminds us that there is only this moment and we are asked to respond appropriately to each experience we encounter. Building a foundation of love, kindness and integrity allows us to respond wisely and for the benefit of all. Recorded Sept. 18, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a...
2021-09-2123 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe DhammapadaThe Dhammapada, part of the Pali Canon, is one of the most popular collections of Buddha's teachings. Mary looks at some of the verses and how the entire collection is an easy way to remind ourselves of the most important parts of the dharma. There is much richness to be explored.Recorded Sept. 11, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2021-09-1425 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageDecolonizing the MindDharma practice teaches us how to disentangle ourselves from habitual thoughts and habits of mind. It can also support us as we disengage from the larger, systemic patterns baked into our culture. Mary discusses the qualities of the colonial mind and how to identify the greed, hatred and ignorance and move toward a world that works for everyone.Recorded Sept. 4, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for...
2021-09-0627 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Eightfold Path: Right ConcentrationThe last factor in the Eightfold Path is often called Right Concentration, but it more about a steadiness or collectedness of the mind. Mary discusses this final piece and how the clarity and wisdom it provides allows us to be fully with reality as it is and move towards liberation.Recorded August 26, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2021-08-3131 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Eightfold Path: Right Mindfulness Part 2Continuing with the Four Foundations of Mindfulness, Mary discusses how these practices, when aligned with the Eightfold Path, lead to the end of suffering and facilitate awakening. Recorded August 21, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2021-08-2332 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Eightfold Path: Right Mindfulness Part 1Right Mindfulness underpins just about everything we do in our practice and is necessary for liberation. Without the clarity of present time awareness and the integrity to guide our mindfulness skillfully, it's easy to stay trapped in delusion and suffering. Mary discusses what mindfulness is and isn't, and touches on the first foundations of mindfulness (the Satiphatthana Sutta). Next week will continue this factor.Recorded August 14, in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.
2021-08-1635 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Eightfold Path: Right EffortIt takes effort to move from suffering to the end of suffering and the Buddha dedicated an entire factor of the Eightfold Path to this. Mary talks about the Four Efforts necessary to disentangle ourselves from our deeply rooted stories, causes and conditions to a place of freedom and ease.Recorded August 5, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2021-08-0934 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Eightfold Path: Right SpeechRight Speech can also be considered Right Communication. How we show up in the world and communicate with others is so important and critical in moving on this path toward liberation for ourselves, and all beings. Mary discusses the Buddha's teaching on this factor as well as offering an invitation to look at all the ways we communicate. Shout out to Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.Recorded July 17, 2021 in the virtual world Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included a...
2021-07-1940 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Eightfold Path: Right IntentionContinuing the series on The Eightfold Path, Mary discusses Right Intention and the three components: Renunciation, Good Will and Harmlessness. This factor works to break up the defilements of greed and aversion and helps us move into harmony with the world. Recorded July 10, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2021-07-1328 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Eightfold Path: Right ViewThe Eightfold Path is the Buddha's the path to end suffering. In this video Mary discusses Right View, the first factor in the path. Right View allows us to move away from ignorance - seeing where we've been snagged by delusion - and into clarity and wisdom. First talk in the series.Recorded July 3, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2021-07-0635 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageMeditation: Lovingkindness (Metta)In this Lovingkindness, or Metta, meditation, Mary guides us in finding the phrases that are meaningful to us. Metta is a powerful practice to soften our hearts both to ourselves and to all beings.Recorded May 29, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2021-06-2827 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageAnatta: The Conditioned SelfAlong with the Impermanence (Anicca) and Suffering (Dukkha), the teaching of Anatta or non-self is one of the Three Characteristics of Existence taught by the Buddha. In this talk Mary discusses what this actually means and how to work with it in daily life.Recorded June 17, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2021-06-2225 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Four Protective MeditationsAncient teachers in the Theravada tradition collected four meditation subjects which the Buddha taught that they considered to be protective and worthy of dedicated practice. Drawing on work by Bhikkhu Bodhi, Mary discusses these four subjects (Mindfulness of the Buddha, Lovingkindness, 32 Parts of the Body and Death Meditation) and talks about how the protection they offer is a deep grounding in practice which offers a firm foundation from which to greet the world.Recorded June 12, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would...
2021-06-1433 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageMaking It Safe for EveryoneThe ease with which humans create identities around self and other makes it challenging to recognize our shared humanity and live in harmony. Listening to the news on any day will prove this point. The Buddha, however, gave us teachings and practices which enable us to be in wise and kind relationship with each other if we make the effort. Mary talks about the ethical practices of wise speech and wise action which have impact both for ourselves and for the world. This is truly the path to liberation for all beings. With gratitude to Gregory Kramer and Rhonda M...
2021-05-1841 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageDistortions of the MindThe Buddha was very clear in talking about how we allow small misperceptions to blossom into full blown delusions which cause harm to ourselves and others and continue the cycle of suffering. In this talk Mary discusses the extremely relevant Vipallasa Sutta which talks about how ignorance grows and how it is eliminated, both for ourselves and for the world.Recorded May 8, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's...
2021-05-1136 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavagePractice: Just Like Riding a BicycleEnergy or effort is an important part of the path to awakening. Our practice is not simply sitting back and waiting for something to happen; instead we bring a wise energy and effort to guide the heart-mind to wise and compassionate action. In this talk Mary discusses energy (viriya) as a paramita, part of the Eightfold Path and one of the Awakening Factors.This talk was offered at the Insight Community of the Desert.Recorded April 25, 2021Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a...
2021-04-2735 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageDiving into the SatipaṭṭhānaThe Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta is called the direct path to realization, or in other words, the path to awakening. These important instructions are all about developing our mindfulness practice and cultivating wisdom and insight. In this talk, Mary discusses the teachings from a Satipaṭṭhāna retreat she did with Bhikkhu Anālayo, one of the foremost experts on the text and the practice. This is a practical way to establish mindfulness and move towards freedom.Recorded April 17, 2021 in the virtual world Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if...
2021-04-2030 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageRelaxed and AwareMindfulness is not about striving or getting things done. Instead, the practice is about a relaxed receptivity which allows a more spacious and embodied awareness. In this talk Mary discusses how to open into awareness and clear knowing. Props to Bhikkhu Anālayo and his book, Satipatthāna Meditation: A Practice Guide, for some wisdom on this practice.Recorded April 1, 2021 in the virtual world. Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's web...
2021-04-0930 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageBe a BodhisattvaThe idea of a Bodhisattva runs throughout Buddhist scriptures and tradition. It means "destined for Buddhahood" and also means one who is dedicated to the spiritual path. It is especially powerful when it denotes someone who works to end suffering for all beings. The invitation to be a Bodhisattva is open to everyone and is especially important in our world today where there is so much harm. In this talk Mary discusses the idea of a Bodhisattva and invites each of us to examine how we can bring the idea into our daily lives.Recorded March 27, 2021 in the...
2021-03-3026 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Path to EnlightenmentIn several suttas the Buddha mentions the 37 qualities needed to move toward freedom and enlightenment. In this talk Mary discusses these qualities and important ethical living and mindfulness are to finding liberation.Recorded March 11, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2021-03-1530 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageBlame and ShameBlame and shame are two items we're all pretty familiar with these days - they seem to be everywhere. What did the Buddha have to say about them, if anything, and how do we let go? Mary discusses the Buddha's teachings on blame and shame and answers a question on where resentment falls into this conversation.Recorded Feb 27, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for...
2021-03-0127 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageDharma EverywhereWhen your eyes and ears are open, the lessons of the dharma can be found everywhere. In this talk, Mary offers several examples, ranging from Bob Marley to Aristotle to James Baldwin, of how our practice can be supported simply by paying attention. Recorded Feb 20 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2021-02-2229 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageGetting UnstuckThe Buddha talks about the fetters which are what bind us to Samsara and a cycle of suffering and discontent. There are three fetters, self-illusion, doubt, and attachment to rites and rituals that are the first three we should examine to move towards liberation. Mary discusses these fetters and how they can show up in our lives and how to let go and move towards 'stream-entry'.Recorded Feb 11, 2021 in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included a...
2021-02-1531 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageDon't Miss the JoyWe're living through a time of continuing change and challenge. It's easy to become overwhelmed by it all which makes it doubly important to pause and be present for the joy that exists in all of our lives. Mary talks about taking to time to find that joy that occurs when we allow the mind to quiet. She also discusses the steps we can take to cultivate joy in our lives.Recorded Feb 6, 2021 in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a...
2021-02-0840 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageMaking Peace with Our DemonsThe wonderful story of Milarepa and his cave full of demons is emblematic of how we can move through the world and of our spiritual path. It's also a story of cultivating wisdom and learning how to be at peace with even the most difficult and scary experiences. In this talk Mary offers an invitation to discover and make peace with your demons.Recorded January 30, 2021 in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically...
2021-02-0128 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageHolding Ourselves DearIn the Rajan Sutta (Ud 5.1), the Buddha invites us to acknowledge that just as we find no one dearer than ourselves, we should recognize that others feel the same and so we should not hurt others if we love ourselves. It's a wonderful sentiment, but often difficult find a way to hold ourselves with love and esteem. Mary discusses how we can we can get bogged down with ideas that we're not worthy, and how to find a way to self love and love of others.Recorded Jan 21, 2021 in the virtual worldSend me a text...
2021-01-2529 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageA New BeginningWe spend a lot of time attaching importance to particular dates or moments believing that our lives or circumstances will change when something finally happens. This leads to a sense of striving both in our practice and how we move through the world. In this talk, Mary discusses how let go and arrive in the present. It's easy to get distracted and caught up in the habits of the mind, but we can begin again with each breath and in each moment. There is nowhere else, but right here.Recorded Jan. 9, 2021 in the virtual worldSend...
2021-01-1232 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageBeing Fully PresentIn order to be fully present and open we have to learn to be receptive rather than reactive. Because of our conditioning we're not aware of how reactive and stuck in habits we can be. Mary talks about how shifting to a more receptive and open way of being with our experience fosters our ability to stay present which allows us to see more clearly and let go of those things that keep us stuck in samsara. Recorded on Dec. 26, 2020 in the virtual world. Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name an...
2021-01-0428 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageCommitment to MettaOne of the biggest barriers to our practice is ill-will or anger and resentment and the antidote is loving kindness. It is vital to our practice and also necessary as we cultivate care and concern for all beings. Without loving kindness, or metta, it is very easy to dehumanize others and get entangled in the web of greed, hatred and ignorance. The Buddha placed a great emphasis on this and Mary talks about why it is so important and how we can bring more of it into our lives, for the benefit of all beings.Recorded Dec. 5, 2020 in...
2020-12-1430 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageWisdom, Compassion, HeartbreakThere is so much in our world to be heartbroken about today. Heartbreak can sometimes lead to anger however this practice invites us to be with the heartbreak and instead move into Wisdom and Compassion. Using the legend of the Shambhala warrior, Mary talks about using these two tools as a foundation for equanimity and realizing that they offer a powerful path for liberation. Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more i...
2020-12-0730 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageOpening into SpaciousnessWe often hear about how the practice allows us to experience a sense of spaciousness, but what does that mean and how do we get there? It's actually helpful to examine how we tend to be constricted and fearful. Mary discusses how we can bring mindfulness and cultivate awareness in a way to let go of our small, fixed and constricted habits and ideas, and move into a more spacious, calm and peaceful experience.Recorded Nov 14, 2020 in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you...
2020-11-2325 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageStrong Back, Soft FrontOftentimes when we think we're being strong we're actually defending ourselves or shutting down. The pseudo-strength comes from our armor which is really a type of aversion. In this teaching, originally offered by Roshi Joan Halifax, we're invited to soften to our experiences with compassion yet keep a strong back of equanimity. Mary invites us to be vulnerable, yet move through the world with integrity and strength.Recorded Nov. 7, 2020 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response...
2020-11-1637 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageEquanimityEquanimity is the culmination of many Buddhist lists and is a place of wisdom, clarity and and deep intimacy with our own experience. In this talk Mary discusses what equanimity is and isn't and how to cultivate it in your life. Equanimity is something we all could use as we navigate the world today.Recorded Oct. 29, 2020 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes...
2020-11-0928 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageHabits of MindSo many of our thoughts and emotions are habitual and not necessarily tied to what is happening in the present moment. The Buddha talked about this conditioning and the need to let go of the habits and cultivate an awareness of right now. But how do we let go of something that is so familiar and comfortable? Mary discusses how to spot these habitual patterns and ways to let them go.Recorded Oct. 24, 2020 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a...
2020-11-0235 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageFriendship, Connection, CommunityThe Buddha said that admirable friendship is the whole of the holy life. Friendship, connection and community are always important, but seemingly even more so as we move through this world of pandemic, uprisings, zoom and social media. Mary discusses how we can cultivate friendship and community in order to maintain the all-important sense of connection.Recorded Oct 15, 2020 in the virtual world Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info o...
2020-10-2628 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Four Passing SightsThe Four Passing Sights, also known as the Four Messengers is a famous story about Siddhartha Guatama and when he first encounters the reality of life and suffering. These were catalysts for him to leave his comfortable home and go forth to search for the end of suffering. In this talk Mary discusses how this story can jolt us into an awareness of our own denial of suffering and serve as a "call to an ethical life" (Bhikkhu Analayo). It's especially important right now as we deal with the suffering of the pandemic and our world today.Recorded Oc...
2020-10-1927 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageTaking Care of OurselvesEven during a global pandemic there seems to be so much that needs to be done. It's easy to be caught up in the need to fix or take care of or just do something. Many times we feel uneasy about taking time to nourish ourselves, but it's imperative that we do so. Mary talks about how we get caught up in doing, and how to go let go and take care of ourselves in a wise way.Recorded Oct. 1, 2020 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name...
2020-10-1229 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageDon't Miss What's Happening!In the Satipatthana Sutta, the Budda's teaching on mindfulness, he offers a way to develop insight and awareness. The practice is not just about when we're sitting on the 'cushion' but about being aware all the time. The monk Sayadaw U Tejaniya invites us to practice "from the moment we wake up until the moment we fall asleep." In this talk, Mary discusses the foundations of mindfulness which allow us to develop a way to be aware as much as possible and to tend to whatever arises, whether pleasant or not. This practice allows us to feel all the...
2020-10-0526 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageTaking Refuge in the HeartLife is challenging for all of us especially right now, and our natural go-to is not always kindness and compassion. However, responding to rage, fear and other emotions with kindness and compassion is important and should frame how we move through each moment. Mary discusses what this looks like, why it's important and what gets in our way. Recorded Sept. 19, 2020 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for m...
2020-09-2831 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageSkillful Means: Moving through the World with Wisdom and CompassionThe term 'skillful means' (upaya) is used a lot in Buddhist circles, but what does it mean and how do we utilize the teachings to move through out lives? Mary discusses upaya as a way to move away from suffering or dukkha in this moment and how we find these skillful means in our own lives.Recorded August 22, 2020 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for...
2020-08-2629 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageEscape from Deep ConditioningThe Buddha said, "Impermanent are conditioned things," but that has not stopped humans from thinking things are solid and permanent. Using the book The Body Is Not an Apology by Sonya Renee Taylor as a jumping off point, Mary discusses the great suffering we have all experienced ourselves and caused others by holding on to concepts about size, race, gender, sexual orientation, ability and mental health. We've been deluded into thinking there is a default that is best and we other people based on these ideas. Breaking out of the conditioning is the path to liberation. "Their subsiding is...
2020-08-1629 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageTraining the Mind The Buddha often ended a teaching with the sentence, "This is how you should train yourself," and training the mind is a common phrase. How does one actually do that and what does it look like on and off the cushion? Mary discusses training the mind to let go of its conditioning and its importance in the journey towards liberation.Recorded Aug 1, 2020 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's w...
2020-08-0431 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageImpermanence and ChangeIn Buddhist teachings impermanence is one of the three characteristics of existence. We're often aware of this especially when things end that we're attached to. However, change sometimes does not come soon enough and we suffer because of that. Mary discusses how to see the process of impermanence at the micro and macro levels and let go of attachment or aversion to change.Recorded July 25, 2020 in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.
2020-08-0326 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageWise Action: Standing Firm in the DharmaThis talk was part of the Wise Action Series offered by the San Francisco Dharma Collective.In the Eightfold Path Wise Action and Sila are the Buddha’s prescription for moving through the world without causing harm and for ending suffering where we find it. This practice of integrity is as important today as it was 2,600 years ago and can serve as a solid foundation as we face a world where greed, hatred and delusion are running rampant. Mary speaks about her experience standing firm in the Dharma while addressing social and economic injustice.The Wis...
2020-07-2130 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageKindness and IntimacyThe practice of insight allows us to become more intimate with ourselves and our emotions. However it's difficult to cultivate this intimacy if we don't also cultivate kindness and gentleness. Mary talks about what that might look like and how to do it. It's important at any time, but so much more important during these challenging times.Recorded June 16, 2020 in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more...
2020-07-2137 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Early Buddhist NunsUsing the book, The First Free Women: Poems of the Early Buddhist Nuns by Matty Weingast, Mary talks about how relevant their words are for our practice today. There is also conversation about the state of full Bhikkhuni ordination today.Recorded June 27, 2020 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2020-07-0438 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageFinding a Place to Hold YouLama Rod Owens speaks about the need to find something to hold you so you feel safe enough to let your heart crack open. In this podcast Mary talks about being held by the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha - taking refuge - as a way to hold our pain, grief and joy and to find connection.Recorded June 6, 2020 in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info...
2020-06-0526 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageJoy in the Time of CovidJoy is a natural occurrence when our hearts are awake, but much of the time we need to take the time to look for it or even allow ourselves to feel it, especially when going through difficult and challenging times. In this talk Mary discusses the importance of joy in our lives and how to find it even during a global pandemic. Recorded May 23, 2020 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.V...
2020-05-2539 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageReality on the CushionThe COVID-19 Pandemic has brought the inequities of our culture into stark relief. How do we hold the powerful emotions that show up when we're face to face with the greed, hatred and ignorance that seem to be everywhere? Mary also discusses the idea of Engaged Buddhism and how our practice invites us to take action to end the greed, hatred and ignorance where we see it and to end suffering for all beings.Recorded May 7, 2020 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you...
2020-05-1032 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageLet in the GoodMary revisits Rick Hanson's teaching on Wise Effort. How do we abandon unskillful thoughts and cultivate those that are more beneficial? It's so easy to get lost in thoughts about tomorrow or yesterday without even being aware of it. This talk offers pragmatic ways to impact our thoughts and let go of what does not serve which is especially helpful as we continue to move through extremely challenging times.Recorded April 25, 2020 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - i...
2020-04-2730 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavagePandemic and the Undefended HeartIt's so easy to shut down during this time as we navigate some big unknowns. Our old habits can come back and we let the armor build up. However, there is a way to keep our hearts open and willing to be intimate with our experience no matter how difficult or unpleasant. Mary talks about normal reactions to a pandemic and how to move through them with compassion and kindness.Recorded April 11, 2020 in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response...
2020-04-1332 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageGetting UnstuckIn this time of groundlessness it's important to see how sometimes being stuck in fixed views and the way things SHOULD be intensifies our stress or discomfort. Mary discusses how we get stuck in these views, how to identify them, and how we can let go. This podcast includes group sharing at the end.Recorded April 4, 2020 in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes...
2020-04-0746 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageWorking with the MindIn the midst of a global pandemic, our minds could be working overtime on things that are not very beneficial. This propensity for the mind to run off in a million directions, or focus on one not so useful thought is nothing new and the Buddha offered a path of practice to address this proliferation of thought. Mary discusses ways to take care of ourselves and tend to the mind during this difficult time.Recorded March 21, 2020 in the virtual worldSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you...
2020-03-2527 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageFear, Love and COVID-19Everything is changing practically minute by minute and we're dealing with all the emotions that dealing with the unknown and uncertainty brings up. Why wouldn't fear show up right now? Acknowledging it with love is a way not to become overwhelmed. Mary discusses this and offers Tonglen practice as a way to take care of yourself in the moment.Recorded March 14, 2020 in the virtual world.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website f...
2020-03-1733 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Wisdom of Ajahn Chah in Today's WorldAjahn Chah was a monk in the Thai Forest Tradition and a wise teacher to many. His wisdom resonates as much today and is as relevant as it was in the last century. In this talk Mary cites many of his teachings as a guide to navigating today's challenging environment.Recorded March 7, 2020 in Los AngelesSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2020-03-0930 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageWhat's Love Got to Do With It?With gratitude to Tina Turner, Larry Yang, and the Metta Sutta, Mary discusses the importance of love as the foundation for our relationship to ourselves and to all others. Cultivation of kindness and vulnerability is a path to liberation and a base of great power for how we show up in the world. Recorded Feb 22, 2020 in Los AngelesSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2020-02-2534 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageFear, Anxiety and RAINAll of us feel discomfort at some point and to greater and lesser degrees. We may call it fear, anxiety, something else or simply dukkha. How we deal with it is what is important and the practice of RAIN (Recognize, Allow, Investigate, Nurture) is an excellent tool to practice being with our most difficult experiences without being overwhelmed. Mary discusses this practice as part of our journey towards being present with what is.Recorded on Feb. 2, 2020 in Los AngelesSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would...
2020-02-0439 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Eightfold PathOne of the basic teachings of Buddhism, the Eightfold Path is not only the path to awakening and the end of suffering, but it also provides a foundation in this world of constant change and impermanence. In this talk, Mary discusses how the Path is a place of refuge and of power enabling us to live in harmony with the world.Recorded Jan 25, 2020 in Los AngelesSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's...
2020-01-2735 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageIntention and a Reflection on My Grandmother's HandsIn this first class of 2020 Mary revisits the Buddha's teaching on intention and how powerful it is in shaping our lives on a path towards freedom. Additionally she speaks about the book My Grandmother's Hands by Resmaa Menakem, an investigation of racialized trauma and body-centered psychology. Although not Buddhist, it is aligned with the need to connect and be with our deepest experience.Recorded Jan 4, 2020 in Los AngelesSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks....
2020-01-1632 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Four Foundations of MindfulnessThe Satipatthana Sutta is the Buddha's teaching on mindfulness and is called the direct path of realization. In this brief overview, Mary discusses each of the foundations and how they flow so beautifully into each other and yet are each so important on their own.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-12-1934 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavagePracticing Self-RestraintRenunciation is a fancy way to say 'let go'. In this talk Mary uses Phillip Moffitt's teaching on self-restraint to show how it's a different way to practice renunciation and letting go. Stop being the star of your own movie is one of these ways.Recorded Nov 16, 2019 in Los AngelesSend me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-11-2531 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageEmptinessFROM THE ARCHIVES: Based on Stephen Batchelor's writings in After Buddhism, Mary investigates and discusses what emptiness means and how we can relate to the concept in our lives.Recorded in Los Angeles on Nov 7, 2015Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-11-0227 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageLetting In the GoodMary discusses Rick Hanson's chapter in Buddha's Brain on Letting in the Good. This is how we can discover and cultivate beneficial qualities while letting go of the non-beneficial qualities that do not serve at all. This is held in the context of the Four Efforts and also brings ideas from neuroscience that support this cultivation.Recorded at Against the Stream March 27, 2017, in Los Angeles.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website...
2019-10-1847 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageIgnorance and the Beautiful QualtiesGreed, hatred, delusion, the hindrances and so many other unskillful and harmful behaviors can be grouped under ignorance. Inspired by Arinna Weisman, Mary talks about the beautiful qualities the Buddha offered us as an antidote to these and their timeliness in today's world.Recorded Oct. 5, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-10-1229 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageNowhere to Go; Nothing to Do; No One to BeThis is a set of phrases we commonly use, especially when doing walking meditation or to build our concentration. In this talk, Mary takes a closer look at these phrases and what they mean in our daily lives.Recorded Sept 28, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-10-0527 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageAspiration and IntentionCultivating wisdom allows us to see more clearly what is beneficial or not in our actions. Setting an intention or aspiration helps us act more skillfully and wisely and in alignment with our values. Mary discusses how we do this in our daily lives.Recorded Sept 5, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-09-2036 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageGroundlessnessPema Chodron says that much of our discomfort stems from our need to be okay all the time and our 'resistance to the fundamental uncertainty of our situation." How do we come to terms with our shifting experience and let go of the need to have everything figured out? Mary talks about working with this fluidity and holding it with ease.Recorded Aug. 24, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more...
2019-09-0628 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageA Dharma JourneyCelebrating the 11th anniversary of teaching this class, Mary talks about her life and her dharma journey. She also weaves in Joanna Macy's teaching on the Shambhala Prophecy which says we must cultivate wisdom and compassion as we move through the world.Recorded on Aug 10, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-08-3042 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageTransition and TransformationWe yearn to get to a place where everything is good and we have it all figured out. Unfortunately if that place exists, it will surely change. In this talk, Mary discusses William Bridges' book, "The Way of Transition" and how it offers another view of the core Buddhist teaching of impermanence (without being a Buddhist book) and how understanding this truth will lead to equanimity.Recorded July 27, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks....
2019-08-1434 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageGuardians of the WorldThe Buddha described how a deep foundation of integrity can serve us on our path to liberation. Hiri and Otappa are the guardians of this integrity and Mary discusses what they are and how we cultivate them. Hiri safeguards our personal integrity and Otappa guides us as we interact with the world.Recorded June 1, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-06-2330 min
Undefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Eight Worldly Winds - A Practice in EquanimityThe eight worldly winds come and go and impact everyone. Pleasure, pain, gain, loss, praise, blame, fame and disgrace are things we're all familiar with, but our tendency is to hold on to the pleasant ones and work very hard not to experience the unpleasant.The Buddha says that the wise know how to hold each of these without getting bowled over and Mary discusses how to be with whatever arises.Recorded June 6, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not...
2019-06-1438 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageIn the MomentOur lives move from one thing to the next so quickly sometimes and slowly at others. Being with our experience is what the Buddha's teachings are all about. In this talk, Mary talks about all the things arising in the week: Brené Brown, Nonviolence, Intuitive Awareness and the Four Noble Truths among other things. Right now, it's like this.Recorded May 23, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on c...
2019-06-0333 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageDesire and CravingPeople often think that desire is a dirty word in Buddhism, but the teachings point to two distinct types of desire. Tanha is the desire that leads to craving. Chanda is the wholesome desire that leads to contentment and well-being. Mary discusses the difference between the two in this dharma talk.Recorded May 11, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-05-2330 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageNot My Circus, Not My Monkeys - The Practice of Letting GoLetting go is an important teaching because the Buddha said that clinging is suffering. Sounds simple but how do we do it? How do we identify where we cling, and what are the steps to let go? Mary discusses what that might look like in this podcast.Recorded May 2, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-05-0729 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageLive as Though the Truth Were TrueHow do we see clearly and stay present with our direct experience? How do we know what is real and what is fabrication? How do we live as though the truth were true? Mary examines these questions and what the Buddha taught about being present for reality.Recorded April 20, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-05-0732 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageBe a Buddha Not a BuddhistThe idea of what it means to be a Buddhist can be very rigid and not actually related to what the Buddha taught. Mary discusses letting go of this rigidity and using the Buddha's teachings to connect with our direct experience to move through the world in a wise and compassionate way.Recorded March 28, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-04-2625 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageHeart Practices - The Near EnemiesEach of the heart practices, lovingkindness, compassion, appreciative joy and equanimity, have a what is called a near enemy. These are emotions or experiences that seem like they are the heart practices, but are neither beneficial or skillful. Mary discusses these and how to let these near, and far, enemies go.Recorded April 11, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-04-1934 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageWorking with the DefilementsThe defilements are anything the clouds our mind and keeps us from being present with what actually is. Mary discusses how to work with these negative mind states.Recorded on March 16, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-04-0528 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageWorking with the Insanity of the WorldOur world can seem upside down at times. In this talk Mary discusses how to hold the reality of what's going on. We can come to it both from a place of love, and a place of engagement.Recorded March 23, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-03-2634 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageGratitudeMary discusses gratitude, what the Buddha has to say about it and how, perhaps, gratitude and grumbling cannot exist at the same time. Gratitude is an anchor to the present time.Recorded Nov 24, 2018Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-03-1524 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageWake Up to Your ConditioningWe are conditioned by our families, friends, culture and society from the moment we are born and this conditioning is the cause of much suffering. Based on the Buddha's teachings of conditioning, Mary discusses how we can see our conditioning and begin to let it go.Recorded Feb 16, 2019.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-02-1925 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageWise Concentration - 8th Factor of the Eightfold PathMary discusses the 8th and final factor of the Eightfold Path.Recorded Dec 22, 2018.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-02-1435 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageThe Metta SuttaMary discusses the Buddha's instructions that we should be kind to all beings, omitting none.Recorded at Against the Stream on Dec 27, 2017.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-01-3041 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageAwakening JoyBased on the James Baraz book of the same name, Mary talks about how we can cultivate joy into our lives, regardless of our circumstances. Joy is one of the seven factors of awakening and and important part of our freedom from suffering.Recorded Jan 10, 2019Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on classes and teachings.
2019-01-1636 minUndefended Dharma with Mary StancavageWise Speech - 3rd Factor of the Eightfold PathWise speech is all about how we communicate with others in a wise and skillful manner. It's also about saying the things that need to be said, not just making nice. The beginning is cut off, but Mary is talking about the centenary of the end of the First World War which was being commemorated in the United Kingdom.Recorded Nov 17, 2018.Send me a text with any questions or comments! Include your name and email if you would like a response - it's not included automatically. Thanks.Visit Mary's website for more info on...
2018-12-1824 min