Shows
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Skeptical Buddhist
Disbelief, Wariness and Incredulity . . .
There are many Mahayana Buddhist perceptions and perspectives, notions and insights, practices and methodologies that on the (worldly/samsaric) surface initially don't make sense . . . ideas requiring an open mind in order to penetrate and allow the practical understandings that arouse our curiosity and interest sufficient to lean-in abit and engage -- bringing deeper learning, more penetrating contemplative experiences . . . and progressively awakening moments.
For your consideration . . . a questioning mind is an essential catalyst for both intellectual alertness and developing confidence in one's spiritually innate qualities.
(Length: 17 minutes)
Written and...2025-04-1018 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind'DeepSeek'ing Dharma -- and the Human Touch
Ongoing advances in Artificial Intelligence (A.I.), most recently -- and explosively -- led by China's DeepSeek scientists, have stunned the tech/financial world in ways splashed about as pivotal 'wake-up' or 'Sputnik' moments.
Certainly, we live in rapidly shifting times . . . but perhaps there ARE things more practically meaningful than global/political/market cyber-tech developments.
For your consideration: here's a brief discussion of what -- beyond the epochal A.I. algorithms -- authentically engaged, high-performance 'DeepSeek'ing Dharma can awaken/manifest in each of us . . . compliments of our very own human Mind.
(Length: 14 minutes)2025-02-1912 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind"Now Departing on Track Number . . ."
Visualize a vast railroad terminal resembling New York's Grand Central Station, with freshly deceased people entering all the time, mulling around, eventually trudging from the station waiting room toward the track on which their departure train sits, ready to take them on the journey through the Bardo of Becoming to their next rebirth.
Consider: While we will all be there one day, the specific train for which each of us is ticketed differs, and the experiences of our time upon it -- as well as the individual conditions awaiting at our destination -- are not randomly assigned...2025-01-1509 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindFamily, aka Our Holiday 'Dharma Lab'
This time of year can be difficult for many -- obligatory family gatherings, stress, pressure, stale relationships, contrived cheer, awkward communications, discomfort.
But consider: perhaps there's no more fertile setting for meaningful Dharma practice -- and the profound rewards that accompany it -- than with and within our own families.
-- Herein, a tale in which a modern day Bodhisattva provides thoughtful perspectives regarding some not-so-uncommon holiday challenges . . .
(Length: 16 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood, an adjunct faculty member at Naropa University (Boulder, CO) and founder of the Chenrezig Project, with music com...2024-12-2416 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThangka, Buddha and a Meditative Journey . . .
Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Years ago, a Tibetan craftsman created the Thangka for her, presenting a luminous Gautama Buddha surrounded by empowering deities and Dharma protectors.
She's spent abundant meditative hours in the Thangka's presence; fondly sitting with it, adoring and appreciating it as one would a most precious friend.
In all their time together, the Buddha had remained Nobly silent, never audibly speaking to her . . . until today.
(Length: 12 minutes)
Written and presented by Mark Winwood, a faculty member at Naropa University in Boulder, CO and founder of the Chenrezig Project, wi...2024-12-1112 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind"What Is Enlightenment? Is it for Me?"
Call it what you will: enlightenment, realization, awakening, illumination, profound maturity, sageness, bliss . . . noble and empowering . . . brilliant and humble . . . courageous and practical . . . the 'stuff' of poetry.
Cultivating the enlightening mind is, for those who venture in its direction with diligence and authenticity, an adventurous journey on the path toward that which is most profoundly -- and exquisitely -- down-to-earth.
(Length: 11 minutes)
Written and shared here by Mark Winwood, on the teaching faculty at Naropa University (Boulder CO) and the founder of the Chenrezig Project (mwinwood@gmail.com) with musical accompaniment by San Francisco Bay-area musician Bob...2024-05-3111 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindKleshas: Like Highway Robbers . . .Ignorance, Anger, Confusion, Greed, Jealousy, Arrogance, Cynical Doubt, Laziness, Wrong Views, Low Self Esteem, Fear.
In Buddhism these are known as Kleshas, mental hindrances that cloud our mind, setting the stage for unwholesome (i.e., self-centered) intentional actions.
They are stubborn -- sneaky, lurking -- like highway robbers, always ready to pounce . . . contaminating our perspectives while bringing about unfavorable moods and vulnerabilities.
But they are transient . . . just thoughts, and so . . . enter Lojong (Tibetan mind training).
(Length: 12 minutes)
Written and shared here by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project (mwinwood...2023-12-0412 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindSome Thoughts on Mindfulness PracticeWe often cannot change our external environment. We certainly cannot change many (or most) of the people we encounter.
But Mindfulness practice can lead us to clearly 'see' -- and help us to genuinely understand -- what is happening in the present moment (i.e., as it is happening) rather than being confused and/or lost in our thoughts, opinions and reactions.
Through experiential mindfulness, we can insightfully change in remarkable ways.
And consider: once we are changed, everything changes.
(Length: 17 minutes)
Written and shared here by Mark Winwood...2023-08-0417 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindDharma in the ”Wild Place”From a divine 17th century French Canadian cathedral . . . to a young couple presenting Medicine Buddha-oriented offerings in the midst of northern Colorado's 'Rawah Wilderness' -- a tale of bountiful faith and practice touching distant times and realms.
(Length: 14 minutes)
Written and shared here by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project (mwinwood@gmail.com), with musical accompaniment by San Francisco Bay-area musician Bobby Vega in collaboration with Chris Rossbach.
2023-06-0113 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindTurn Suffering Into Compassion -- A Tonglen Meditation"Tonglen" is a Tibetan term that implies 'exchanging oneself with others’.
It refers to a meditation practice found in Himalayan/Mahayana Buddhism which allows the awakening of genuine compassion. "Tong" translates as 'giving or sending', and "len" as 'receiving or taking.'
Tonglen practice is experiential; it gradually wears away our habitually obsessive grasping at a false sense of self (e.g., stubborn ego fixation / relentless identification with the personality).
Through meditative visualization(s), Tonglen effectively reverses our familiar pattern of avoiding suffering and seeking pleasure. As this occurs, we finally liberate ourselves fr...2023-04-1945 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindTrees, Indra’s Net and the Unfolding Archaeology of All that IsReflections on Buddhist Dharma, Indra’s Jewel Net and the Trees with which we share our planet . . . as metaphor for the vast intra-connectedness of phenomena, ideas and life.
Since all things are intimately -- and infinitely -- intertwined with one another, every action is echoed throughout time and space, creating a butterfly effect across the cosmos . . . and practically, within each moment of our experience(s).
Let your contemplative imagination take wing . . .
(Length: 14 minutes)
Written by Mark Winwood and presented here by Kathy Ambrose, both of the Chenrezig Project. Accompanying music composed and...2023-03-2714 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindGuided Meditation: Breath Contemplation / River of MettaFor your contemplation: Appreciative thoughts and kindness-empowering visualizations are shared in this gentle meditation.
As the River flows . . . May all beings be happy -- May all beings be safe -- May all beings be well -- May all beings be peaceful and at ease.
Sit comfortably, focus, center . . . approach and enter your meditative mind. Or simply listen.
(Length: 28 minutes)
Written and shared here by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project.
2023-02-1728 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindA Dharma CrucibleIt is auspicious awareness for Dharma practitioners to remain mindful of how each of our lifetime's event/moments present opportunities for empowering wisdom to arise and abide.
Then, as insights blossom, long-held perspectives and self-oriented attitudes, no longer useful or relevant, may transform in vastly unexpected ways.
Consider: the flourishing of these insights -- and how we engage with them -- depends on no one but ourselves.
(Length: 13 minutes)
Written and shared here by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project with accompanying music composed and performed by the San Francisco Bay-area...2023-01-2413 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Vibrational Resonance of MantrasThe inherently potent merging of Tibetan Buddhism-supported mind states, in concert with the vibrational qualities of Sanskrit sounds and syllables, provides a direct, enriching stimulus to the energies -- and results -- of our Dharma practice.
This has been understood and experienced by practitioners for centuries, who will recite teachings and prayers in their own Tibetan language but have preserved and practice their mantra recitations in Sanskrit, knowing a mantra's intrinsic 'merit' lies mainly in its vibrational qualities rather than in any psychological meaning that society, culture, civilization or humans have placed on it.
But...2022-12-2314 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind’Splendid’ ImpermanenceEverything is changing, advancing . . . collectively and individually . . . moment-by-moment.
Until instinctive insights begin to manifest, reactions to impermanence set many of our challenges into motion, swirling into what Siddhartha termed afflictive mind-states (aka kleshas) of "dukkha" – ignorance-sourced confusions and complications leading to insecurity, discontent, stress, anxiety . . . catchword “suffering”.
But with understanding comes appreciation and, once embraced, impermanence becomes profoundly fertile . . . vast and empowering . . . bringing forth perpetual opportunities . . . fluid, evolving, blossoming.
Impermanence -- it's the Greatest Show on Earth . . . fantastically alive . . . playing non-stop, both outside and inside your mind.
(Length: 12.5 minutes)
Written...2022-10-1512 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Waiting RoomVisualize a vast railroad terminal resembling New York City’s Grand Central Station, with newly dead people entering all the time, mulling around, eventually moving from the waiting room toward the track on which their departure train sits, ready to take them away on a sojourn through the Bardo of Becoming to their next destination.
And while we will all be there one day, the specific train for which each of us is ticketed differs, and the experiences of our journey upon it -- as well as the conditions resident within our destination -- are not randomly de...2022-07-3109 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindLao Tzu and the Mahayana PathThe legendary Lao Tzu was living and teaching a harmonious way of being -- simple, modest and true -- traveling throughout China centuries before Siddhartha's birth.
Upon achieving enlightenment, Siddhartha Buddha refined, deepened and shared similar ways to all who were inclined to listen. Then, after his death, these teachings were assembled and gradually morphed into what we today know as Buddhism's Mahayana curriculum.
The teachings of Lao Tzu . . .
The awakened Bodhisattva path . . .
Both so ancient, yet so relevant today.
(Length: 13 minutes)
Written by Mark Winwood of th...2022-06-3013 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind(Instant) Karma Redo?Consider: How convenient would it be to have a 'Karma' Replay Command Center into which we could call when needed to replay an action or moment we had participated in?
An at-the-ready 'redo' button for any occurrence that, upon reflection, we'd like to correct or fix the 'why' or 'how' we behaved with others . . . and thereby repairing or 're-contenting' the unwholesome karmic seed that had been planted in our mindstream.
Nice to have? You bet.
Useful? Sure thing.
Necessary? Let's talk . . .
(Length: 12 minutes)
Written by Mark Winwood of t...2022-05-1711 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Ongoing Process of MInd"How does my mind work?"
It was a question posed to the 21st Century Bodhisattva at the conclusion of a teaching.
After pausing to collect her thoughts, the Bodhisattva smiled sofly and began to speak not only about the experiential mechanics of mind-flow, but of the path of progressive engagement that empowers one to begin to understand for themself.
(Length: 14 minutes)
Written by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, with accompanying music composed and performed by the SF-bay area musician Bobby Vega.
2022-04-1813 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindBuddha(s) Far and Near . . .The historians tell us Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, lived more than 2,500 years ago in Northern India. Having uncovered and freed the enlightened mind, it is said he taught the path of similar achievement to others for 45 years, until his death at the age of 80.
Precious work, done remarkably well; obviously the Buddha and his teachings have had a uniquely far-reaching impact.
But consider: While affirming and honoring Siddhartha's awakened accomplishments, perhaps Buddhas are a little more 'everyday' . . . ?
(Length: 12 minutes)
Written by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, with accompanying music co...2022-03-2311 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindBackstage at the MindPosed by a student to the 21st Century Bodhisattva at the conclusion of a teaching:
"There's this nagging question, What do I want? The truth is, it's slippery. How can I ever know what I truly want when everything is always changing . . . including my flip-flopping mind, the basis of my entire experience?"
"Do you have any advice for me?"
After some moments of thought the Bodhisattva began to speak . . .
(Length: 15 minutes)
Written by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, presented by Kathy Ambrose . . . with accompanying music composed and performed by...2022-02-2014 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindWithin Dependent Origination, ’Perfect’ Never OccursAbsolutely everything (i.e., anything) we can point to as 'this' or 'that' is occurring in a dynamically ever-changing manner . . . organic . . . on the fly . . . at times seemingly chaotic . . . the sum of its parts . . . perpetually compiling and re-compiling . . . including the profoundly complex occurrences we refer to as You and Me and Us.
All phenomena emanate from a myriad of causes . . . sounds, tastes, aromas, sights, thoughts, feelings . . . aggregated causes give rise to effects, which then evolve into the causes for new effects . . . on and on . . . ad infinitum.
The methodological science of this process of "dependent origination" resides...2022-01-1511 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Buddhist EmbraceReflection upon a foundational Diamond Sutra verse yields a clear and relevant message to those on the Mahayana path: Every sentient being is equally worthy of our attention, caring, cherishing, virtuous intentions and actions.
This understanding -- from which the great mind of equanimity, compassion's fertile ground, arises and abides -- is profoundly empowering.
Feel free to allow your most inclusive visions to emerge and clarify, discover and embrace perspectives beyond your (no longer) comfortable mind boundaries, let your imagination soar . . .
Sentient beings come in all bodies, shapes, colors and sizes . . . and we a...2021-12-2909 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindDharma LabThis time of year can be difficult for many -- obligatory family gatherings, stress, pressure, stale relationships, contrived cheer, discomfort.
But consider: perhaps there's no more fertile setting for meaningful Dharma practice than within our own families.
Because while time shared with those with whom we're most familiar can be challenging, it just might present our greatest opportunities for wholesome growth, and the profound rewards that accompany it.
-- Herein, a tale in which a modern day Bodhisattva provides some thoughtful perspectives . . .
(Length: 16 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood of t...2021-12-1516 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindTeachers Are EverywhereTeachers -- those we learn from; they are everywhere . . . and always have been.
Consider the people of your life -- in your past and those who are here now.
Try to clear your mind of feelings of attachment and/or aversion and ask yourself, with an openly honest heart: “What has this person taught me? How have they influenced me, enabling me to be the person I am today?"
Be patient with this, allow contemplation . . . perhaps you will experience the clarity through which you see and appreciate them (and yourself) in increasingly -- an...2021-11-2812 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindMeditation Beneath the ThangkaA Tibetan craftsman created the Thangka for her, depicting a luminous Buddha surrounded by empowering deities and Dharma protectors.
Over the years she has spent many hours in its presence; fondly sitting with it, adoring and appreciating it as one would a precious friend.
The Buddha at its center had never spoken to her.
Until now.
(Length: 12 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, with music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-11-1012 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe i-Karma KounterFinally . . . tangible proof.
Announcing: a product that confirms Karma does exist, via a boundless system of seeds (or traces of directional disposition) that both 'plant' and 'blossom' in every moment of consciousness, within all minds.
Introducing Apple's new mobile app >> the i-Karma Kounter.
It's groundbreaking -- driven by complex, proprietary algorithms; a real-time overseer of individual behaviorism, right on your smartphone . . . a perfectly awakened collaboration of technology, personal psychology and Buddhist mind-science . . . practical for anyone interested in reliable 'tap-the-app' Self Knowing at any/all times.
** Yes, this is a parody, but...2021-10-2414 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindOur Most Precious LinksIn our rush to purchase and consume, everything becomes commodity, and we often forget about -- if we ever considered them at all -- the sources from which our desired goods and products come. And we easily ignore all that has been done to bring them to us . . . even when extreme hardships have been endured.
Please don't allow that to happen with the profoundly empowering teachings of Tibetan Buddhism, for which deepest appreciation and gratitude for so many is warranted.
(Length: 11 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, with music composed a...2021-10-1411 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe UPS SutraAn ordinary package delivery . . . refreshing iced tea accompanied by an awakening conversation between a United Parcel Service driver and the 21st Century Bodhisattva.
The topics: timeless interconnection and deeply felt gratitude.
(Length: 8 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, recorded in collaboration with Claire Van Bergen. With music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-09-2607 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindWarriors? Indeed!It seems there are some who see Buddhist practice as a path of tame irrelevance: a way that promotes peace (aka passivity), gentleness (aka weakness) and non-violence (aka non-action) . . . docile, inconsequential, tuned-out.
Of course, anyone who has gazed -- and plunged -- into the deep, fiercely loving eyes of a trusted lama, or who lives and practices in accordance with the empowering intensity of Dharma teachings, knows a reality that is quite different.
(Length: 11 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, accompanied by music composed and performed by the renowned SF...2021-09-1610 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindWearing the Natural FaceI have heard stories of a man, regarded by some to be odd in his ways, who lives camped on a small ridge overlooking a creek near the bottom of a particularly deep watershed ravine deep in the mountains . . . a wilderness man who is said to be a deeply awakened Buddhist practitioner, perhaps even a burgeoning Buddha.
And so, early one morning, I set out . . .
(Length: 13 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, accompanied by music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-08-3013 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindOn Imagination (and Buddhism)Beginning with a discussion about the Pineal gland -- and prompted by aspersions of "narrow-mindedness" -- here are some thoughts on the nature of imagination and its role on the path of Buddhist study, practice and engagement.
According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of imagination includes "the ability to think of new and/or familiar things in new ways."
And so, consider imagination not to be something unreal or perhaps even magical, but rather quite practical in terms of how to cultivate and empower our potential(s) . . . both intellectual/rational and creative.
(Length: 12 minutes)2021-08-2611 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindBuddhists Cry TooSome people look upon crying as an indication of self-pity or weakness, a loss of self-control or indication of some sort of emotional disorder or infirmity . . . or perhaps merely a means of manipulation.
But for those on the Buddhist path, tears often emerge for reasons quite different; signaling a profound opening to a richer embrace of our range of experience.
Sometimes we cry on the outside, our eyes filling with tears . . . but the crying of which we're speaking here occurs inside, in that aspect of mind we refer to as heart. And the Buddhist heart c...2021-08-1811 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindUnderstanding and (Practical) WisdomThe question of how to most effectively communicate Dharma insights and sensitivities with those not familiar with Buddhist perspectives was raised at a recent gathering.
Some ideas on how notions such as Interpersonal Relationships, Navigating Impermanence, Patience, Joy, Confidence and Well-Being arise through understanding-born wisdom . . . and might be demonstrably shared . . . are presented.
(Length: 9 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, accompanied by music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-08-0909 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Journey Is the PrizeTibetan Buddhism is a path of accumulated wisdom, a path of practice and engagement . . . leading away from ignorant self-centeredness toward true virtue and happiness.
It is the way of Dharma, of honesty -- beautiful, challenging, perhaps scary at times and always beneficial.
It leads to a reality so intuitively correct and freeing that, upon encountering it, one's only remaining element of disbelief is wonder at how we could have been unaware of its presence for so long.
(Length: 11 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, accompanied by music composed a...2021-08-0310 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindEmanations EverywhereThere are countless Buddhas throughout the universe continuously working for our benefit by emanating in every sort of fashion . . . bringing about insights, realizations and perhaps even moments of progressive awakening.
In Buddhism these experiences are known as blessings, and the only thing that restricts our direct knowledge of them is our own narrow-mindedness.
In this podcast, the 21st Century Bodhisattva explains . . .
(Length: 10 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, recorded by Kathy Ambrose. Accompanied by music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-07-2310 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind"Dear Mother": a letter from the 21st Century Bodhisattva(Written and inspired by the joy of HH Dalai Lama's 86th birthday.)
An excerpt: "Things are going well for me, Mother. I am in good health and enthusiastic in my work. Intellectual, imaginative, stimulating, virtuous and joyous is this path; I am profoundly appreciative to you for providing me with the life force that has enabled me to journey upon it.
Always I am reminded of the precious foundations of well-being and confidence your love and compassion birthed in me, and which have continued to blossom with purpose and clarity in the years since. For you, d...2021-07-0711 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind"I Want to Learn How to Meditate"Most Westerners equate Mind with thinking, but in Buddhism it is acknowledged to be vastly more . . . Mind is the entire spectrum of our inner experiences: thoughts, feelings, perceptions, consciousness, subconsciousness, unconsciousness. It is our perceiver, translator, reflector and mirror.
Without it there is nothing . . . within it is everything.
To begin a meditation practice is to embark on a journey, an adventure of sorts, during which we learn how to observe -- and best 'use' -- our Mind. (Length: 10 minutes)
Written by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, accompanied by music composed and performed by...2021-06-2910 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindCrutches and Bell PeppersFrom the 17th century French Canadian basilica of Sainte-Anne de Beaupre, to a young couple performing Medicine Buddha-oriented offerings in a verdant meadow in the midst of Washington State's Alpine Enchantments, virtuous paths of belief and practice abound as years and miles melt together.
Good hearts . . . confident minds . . . clear and harmonious . . . unencumbered. (Length: 11 minutes)
Written by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, spoken by Kathy Adams, accompanied by music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-06-1711 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindKarma & Movement of MindBuddhist practice leads us to see that our mind is beyond precious and teaches us how to tend to it, learning to discern those states of mind that are unwholesome or harmful and those that are beneficial. Once identified, we choose -- hopefully wisely -- which to let pass and which to nourish.
This is the animated structure of beneficial Karmic activity. To understand, embrace and engage with its workings will, in both the short- and long-terms, transform one's life. (Length: 10 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, accompanied by music composed and p...2021-06-0509 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindA (Modern Day) Letter to the BuddhaOn the eve of Saka Dawa, the full moon day on which Siddhartha's birth, enlightenment and passing into Parinirvana upon his death are joyously celebrated in Tibetan Buddhist communities and among practitioners world-wide, here is a heartfelt dispatch to him . . . along with a request. (Length: 14 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, accompanied by music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-05-2614 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindYou Have Only to Begin . . .The Dharma path is one of grace; teachings are everywhere. Be curious, remain humble. Read, watch and listen carefully . . . learn from everyone and everything and continue doing so while maintaining your sense of humor.
You already have all you'll ever need -- lace up your traveling shoes and get on with it . . . in short order you'll be walking differently upon the Earth. (Length: 9 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, accompanied by music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-05-1709 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindShe ArisesShe is within each and every step you take . . . She guides you toward moments of clarity and wisdom, helping to free you when you are confused and distracted. She is safety . . . She is brilliance . . . She is fearlessness . . . She is your wisest self, your very best mind, your kindest heart . . . She is Awakening . . . She is Precious . . . She is You. (Length: 7 minutes)
Written by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, presented by Kathy Adams; with music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega in collaboration with Chris Rossbach.
2021-05-0406 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindAmerica's Bodhi TreesThey are the Coastal Redwoods, aka Sequoia Sempervirens -- native to the American West, living among the clouds and foggy canyons of the Pacific coastal mountains. Bunyan-esque and virtually indestructible (except by human loggers and their saw mills), they are perhaps our most noble Dharma teachers. (Length: 13 minutes)
Shared here by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, with music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-04-2312 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe $10 Million QuestionFor your consideration: If you would receive great wealth to forget all the Dharma you've ever learned and/or experienced . . . your insights and understandings, knowledge and practices . . . all of it, every bit . . . and by so doing slip back into the mind you had before first encountering the Dharma . . . might you do it? (Length: 12 minutes)
Written and presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, with music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-04-1011 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe 'Best' MessageWe live in a world of often-forgettable sound bites: advertising jingles, political slogans, song verses, news headlines, tweets, jargon, etc. Here is a message we believe is significantly worth remembering, it comes from the 8th century Indian master, Shantideva . . . (Length: 10 minutes)
Written and presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, with music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-03-2910 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Day ComesChange -- sometimes wanted, often unwanted -- is a central feature of life. It can be both subtle and obvious; exhilarating, confusing, exhausting and relieving. It will often spark deep sadness or relief, resistance or grasping . . . and it rarely comes in a form we prefer. Here is a story of Charlie and Olivia . . . and change. (Length: 11 minutes)
Written by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project; presented by Kathy Adams. Background music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-03-2410 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindIn the Shallows of the SkykomishIt is in the river waters of the Pacific North that Salmon, the essence of nature's wild and bountiful grandeur, are born and, after years swimming free in the vast ocean, return to spawn. Herein are some thoughts on the lives --and the ultimate dignity -- of these regional sentient treasures. (Length: 10 minutes)
Written by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project; presented by Kathy Adams. Background music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-03-1509 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindMind Genealogy: Past, Present . . . and FutureQ: What role does Karma play in the ongoing experiences of our rebirth and next life?
A: An innately intrinsic one -- you are architecting the tone and tenor of your future mind now, moment-by-moment . . . just as was done by those who came before you. Meaningful awareness of this can be profoundly beneficial. (Length: 11 minutes)
Written and presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project. Accompanying music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-02-2110 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Last Yeti on EarthAs much as Tibetan Buddhism is an intrinsic aspect of the Himalaya, so also are those mysterious beings known to the world as the Yeti. Noting the devastating earthquake(s) that struck Nepal in April of 2015, we share this "might have been" tale. (Length: 10 minutes)
Written and presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project. Background music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-02-1809 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Stupa at ChitrayChitray is a tiny hamlet perched on a Himalayan ridge along the Sikkim-Nepal border. For one Western trekker, absorbing the 'effects' of sitting alongside its stupa early on a foggy morning, Chitray became one of the most far-reaching places she's ever been. (Length: 9 minutes)
Written and presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project. Background music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-02-1608 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindPuget Sound SutraIt is said that Buddhas -- fully awakened beings -- may manifest in any place, at any time and in any form . . . even as a spiny urchin in the icy waters of the Pacific Northwest's Salish Sea. (Length: 8 minutes)
Written and presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project. Background music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-02-1507 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Empowering Wisdom of 'Emptiness'Consider: Emptiness -- that often referred to, generally misunderstood aspect of mind that is so often referred to in the Buddhist wisdom teachings . . . is anything but empty. It is within the limitless nature of emptiness – the emptiness of any inherent and consistent self -- that the vastness of our potential(s) dwell. So what is it we are empty of? For starters, how about our (seemingly real) limitations, boundaries, restrictions, hindrances, impediments and inhibitions . . . i.e., our tenaciously self-sabotaging confusions. (Length: 12 minutes)
Written and presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project. Background music composed and performed by th...2021-02-1311 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindPacific NW Forests and Indra's Infinite Jewel NetReflections on Buddhist Dharma, trees and Indra’s Net as a metaphor for the interconnectedness of all concepts, ideas, and life. Since all things are intimately intertwined with one another, every action is echoed throughout time and space creating a butterfly effect across the cosmos. Peace begets peace, violence begets violence. (Length: 12 minutes)
Written and presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project. Background music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
2021-02-1012 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Science(s) of Tibetan BuddhismOne of the enduring Dharma discussions in the West centers around "What Is Buddhism -- Is it Science, Social Perspective or Religion?" In this broadcast, the Chenrezig Project's Mark Winwood examines the science within Tibetan Buddhist practice, including some of the notions that are relevant to so many . . . whether students/practitioners of Buddhism or not. (Length: 62 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the lower Snoqualmie River Valley of western Washington State. It includes commentary as well music composed and performed by...2019-01-261h 02
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindEnvironmental Interdependence: Our WetlandsIn this broadcast, the Chenrezig Project's Mark Winwood welcomes Teresa Opolka, a local (Carnation) wetland ecologist/botanist. Teresa is the founder of the Aquatica Environmental Consulting group specializing in projects in the greater Puget Sound region, focusing on wetland and stream resources. The interconnections between the increasingly inhabited lower Snoqualmie Valley, nestled between the Cascade Mountains and the Pacific Ocean and its prodigious -- and crucial -- natural world wetlands are discussed. (Length: 56 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the l...2018-12-2756 minTibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind16 Practical Guidelines for (Best) LivingMany of us are seeking to develop our innate capacity for compassion and wisdom in order to live a most happy, peaceful and beneficial life. The "16 Guidelines" are a simple and robust Tibetan Buddhism-sourced framework for reflecting on the ways we think, act, relate to others and find meaning in life . . . as well as for creating the causes of true happiness and fulfillment. In this broadcast, Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project summarizes each of the 16 guidelines in a manner that is accessible to all. (Length: 60 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mi...2018-11-1400 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Heart Sutra and Mechanics of MindMind: every sentient being has one but very few understand -- or even think about -- how their mind works. In this broadcast, Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project shares the fundamental Buddhist wisdom teaching The Heart Sutra, which puts forth a description of the ongoing workings of mind in terms of "what's there" . . . and what's not. -- Psst . . . it's all about 'heaps' . . . (Length: 57 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the lower Snoqualmie River Valley of western Washington State. It inclu...2018-09-2056 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindOvercoming Stubborn Self-CenterednessIn this broadcast, the Chenrezig Project's Mark Winwood discusses aspects of two questions he was recently asked: (1) Why do you (meaning "us") do what you do regarding shared/engaged Dharma?, and (2) Understanding that deeply stubborn self-cherishing, self-centeredness, self-importance, etc. are at the source of so many of our problems, how do we begin to instinctively perceive ouselves/others more equanimously? (Length: 48 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the lower Snoqualmie River Valley of western Washington State. It includes commentary as we...2018-09-0748 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Experience of Dying and DeathDeath awaits us all. In this broadcast, Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project discusses the Bardo Thodol (aka Tibetan Book of the Dead) and shares some of the Tibetan ideas of what death is as well as what occurs and is felt during the dying process . . . including what we can begin doing now to create the causes for the "best possible" experience(s) at the time of -- and following -- our death. A not-morbid, practical discussion. (Length: 53 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a com...2018-08-2253 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Diamond Sutra: Inclusiveness and ImpermanenceIn this broadcast, the Chenrezig Project's Mark Winwood shares some of the fundamental aspects of one of Mahayana Buddhism's most revered (and studied) Prajnaparimta teachings, The Perfection of Wisdom that Cuts Like a Diamond Sutra, aka The Diamond Sutra. (Length: 55 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the lower Snoqualmie River Valley of western Washington State. It includes commentary as well music composed and performed by Bobby Vega, a renowned SF Bay-area musician.
2018-08-0954 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindFamily Values, Tibetan Child-Rearing PracticesIn this broadcast Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project expounds upon a recent talk he shared with inmates and their families at the Monroe Correctional Complex (Monroe, WA) on Buddhist perspectives of Family Values. Also included: a discussion on Tibetan child-rearing practices, specifically for toddlers and the very young. (Length: 53 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the lower Snoqualmie River Valley of western Washington State. It includes commentary as well music composed and performed by Bobby Vega, a renowned SF Bay...2018-07-2552 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindNoble (aka Skillful) Eating -- What, When, Why?In this broadcast, the Chenrezig Project's Mark Winwood touches upon some of the how's and why's of Dharma-esque eating, including vegetarianism and traditional time(s) to take our meals. Featured is a wide-ranging interview with the owner/proprietors -- who are master raw food aficionados -- of Longevity Foods, a local (Duvall) vegan health food store and eatery. (Length: 56 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the lower Snoqualmie River Valley of western Washington State. It includes commentary as well a mus...2018-07-1256 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindHappy 83rd Birthday Dalai Lama!This is a special broadcast!
Join Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project as he celebrates the birthday of Tenzin Gyatso, HH Dalai Lama, who turns 83 on Friday, July 6th. Included is biographical information, an appreciative discussion of his many beauties and talents, a selection of quotes, etc. (Length: 57 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the lower Snoqualmie River Valley of western Washington State. It includes commentary as well music composed and performed by Bobby Vega, a renowned SF Bay...2018-07-0356 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindKarma: Law(s) of Cause and EffectMark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project discusses the Buddhist perspectives on our inclinations of mind, or Karma. Dispelling some of our common misconceptions, he offers practical insights into the workings of Karma, referring to teachings from the Buddha, the 14th Dalai Lama and Matthieu Ricard, the wizened Tibetan Buddhist monk, molecular/genetics scientist, author, etc. (Length: 57 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the lower Snoqualmie River Valley of western Washington State. It includes commentary as well music composed and performed by...2018-06-2955 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindThe Preciousness of Our Human LifeOn this broadcast Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project discusses the Buddhist notions of Precious Human Life, and shares some motivational guidelines for cultivating appreciation for the profound Dharma opportunities our time in the human realm provides . . . whether one subscribes to the Tibetan viewpoints of rebirth/reincarnation or not. (length: 56 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the lower Snoqualmie River Valley of western Washington State. It includes commentary as well music composed and performed by Bobby Vega, a renowned SF Bay...2018-06-2255 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindFathers' Day Reflections; HH Dalai Lama on SuicideOn this episode airing during Fathers' Day 2018 weekend, Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project discusses fatherhood -- his own father and fathers-in-law, Buddhism-infused perspectives on fatherhood in general and a look at Siddhartha as father, as well as his relationship with his own father Suddhodana. Also included: in light of the recent deaths of public figures Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain, Mark shares and discusses some of HH Dalai Lama's perspectives on suicide. (Length: 56 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the l...2018-06-1556 minTibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindMeditation and Faith by ReasoningThe Chenrezig Project's Mark Winwood shares a breathing meditation and answers a listener's question "How do I develop faith?" with a discussion of the Buddhist path of cultivating genuine faith by learning, investigation, meditation and practical reasoning. (Length: 57 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the lower Snoqualmie River Valley of western Washington State. It includes commentary as well music composed and performed by Bobby Vega, the renowned SF Bay-area musician.
2018-06-0856 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindAwakening and BodhicittaOn this episode, Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project discusses notions of Awakening and Bodhicitta in light of the upcoming Tibetan full moon (May 29, 2018) recognition of Saka Dawa, the day on which Siddhartha's birth, attaining of full enlightenment and crossing into parinirvana (complete nirvana upon death) are celebrated. (Length: 58 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the lower Snoqualmie River Valley of western Washington State. It includes commentary as well music composed and performed by Bobby Vega, the renowned SF Bay-area mus...2018-05-2557 minTibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindAging and the Spiritual PathMark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project discusses spiritual aspects associated with aging, some of the more common Western misconceptions about Buddhist practice and other topics of interest. (Length: 57 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the lower Snoqualmie River Valley of western Washington State. It includes commentary as well music composed and performed by Bobby Vega, the renowned SF Bay-area musician.
2018-05-1856 min
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant MindInterview with Sonam Rinpoche: On MotherhoodOn this Mothers' Day 2018 weekend broadcast, the Chenrezig Project's Mark Winwood speaks with Khenpo Sonam Rinpoche, a visiting Tibetan Buddhist lama (Nyingma) teacher, who kindly shares his views on various Dharma-related subjects, most notably the Tibetan perspectives on mothers and motherhood. (Length: 60 minutes)
-- Note: This podcast was originally broadcast as an "Elegant Mind" episode on KAPY Valley Radio 104.9 FM, a community radio station serving the lower Snoqualmie River Valley of western Washington State. It includes commentary as well music composed and performed by Bobby Vega, the renowned SF Bay-area musician.
2018-05-1259 min