This chapter explores the importance of confronting fears and challenges rather than seeking escapism, highlighting how embracing difficulties can lead to personal growth and understanding. It emphasizes the role of resistance in creating suffering and advocates for a shift towards gratitude and acceptance to alleviate hardship. The discussion also addresses the concept of facing loneliness directly and allowing emotions to be present without judgment for inner peace.
In this episode, Haemin Sunim shares his wisdom on Zen Buddhism and how we can apply its teachings to our everyday lives. Haemin is a Zen Buddhist teacher, writer, and founder of the School of Broken Hearts in Seoul. Educated at Berkeley, Harvard, and Princeton, he received formal monastic training in South Korea and has taught Asian religions in Massachusetts. Haemin is one of the most influential Zen monks globally, with over a million followers on social media.
During our conversation, Haemin offers profound insights into the nature of thoughts, emotions, and the self, drawing from his extensive knowledge and experiences as a Zen monk. He emphasizes the liberating potential of realizing we are not our thoughts or emotions and the power of practicing mindfulness in the present moment.
Some highlights we explore:
- Haemin's journey from academia to Zen monastic life
- The fundamental principles of Zen Buddhism and how they can be applied in daily life
- The transformative power of observing our thoughts and emotions without identifying with them
- Techniques for practicing mindfulness and living fully in the present moment
Enjoy!