The podcast discusses the Naikan method of self-reflection, rooted in Buddhist spirituality, and its potential to enhance the meaning of Thanksgiving. It explores the three questions of Naikan and a Thanksgiving-specific version of the practice. The benefits of self-reflection are highlighted, including shifting from complaint-based mindset to gratitude. The concept of blessings and gratitude is explored within the Japanese tradition of Naikan. The importance of recognizing and appreciating blessings in one's life is emphasized, even from unknown sources. The podcast also includes sponsor features and concludes with a message of gratitude to the guest and audience.
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Quick takeaways
Acknowledging and appreciating the people and experiences that have been blessings in our lives can cultivate gratitude and confidence.
Reflecting on the significance of everyday objects can cultivate a greater appreciation for the blessings they bring.
Recognizing and appreciating the various forms of energy that support us can develop a deeper appreciation for the everyday blessings that enhance our lives.
Deep dives
Reflecting on Blessings: People in the Present
Reflecting on blessings in our lives involves acknowledging the people who bring positivity and support. It goes beyond just family and friends to include individuals we may not think of as blessing-givers. This includes people like the electric company workers who restore power during an outage, or a teacher who signed us up for a sports team. Taking the time to be specific about the ways these individuals have supported us can enhance our gratitude.
Objects that Bring Grace
Objects play an important role in our lives and can be seen as blessings. They can range from gadgets like phones and tablets that provide practical support, to cars that allow us to commute safely. Personal belongings like eyeglasses, watches, bicycles, or even our favorite stereo speakers contribute to our quality of life. Reflecting on the significance of these everyday items can cultivate a greater appreciation for the blessings they bring.
Acknowledging Energy Forms
Forms of energy, like electricity, also play a vital role in supporting our lives. We often take for granted the power that flows through our homes until an outage occurs. Reflecting on the blessings of electricity helps us recognize the convenience and functionality it brings. By acknowledging the various forms of energy that support us, such as electrical power, we can develop a deeper appreciation for the everyday blessings that enhance our lives.
Recognizing the Blessings in Our Lives
One of the main ideas discussed in this podcast episode is the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the people and experiences that have been blessings in our lives. The speaker shares personal examples, such as a piano teacher who had a significant impact on their daughters' musical skills, and a local auto repair garage that came to their daughter's rescue when her car got stuck in a snowbank. The speaker emphasizes the gratitude and confidence that arise from having individuals like these who support and help us in times of need, even if they are not actively present in our lives anymore.
Distinguishing Gratitude and Blessings
Another key point discussed in the podcast is the distinction between gratitude and blessings. The speaker explains that gratitude can arise from recognizing the things we have received and feeling that we have earned or deserved them. In contrast, blessings, associated with the concept of grace, are seen as gifts or acts of kindness that we did not earn or deserve. The speaker highlights that reflecting on our lives and the blessings we have received cultivates humility and enables us to see the things we have as blessings rather than achievements or entitlements.
A focus on gratitude is typical this time of year. But more often than not, the cognitive or behavioral nods we give gratitude around Thanksgiving can feel a little limp, rote, and unedifying. If you feel like this American holiday has been lacking in meaning, maybe what you need is to infuse it with a Japanese practice.
The Naikan method of self-reflection grew out of Buddhist spirituality and has been recognized by psychologists as a way to develop greater self-awareness, gratitude, empathy, and direction. Naikan involves asking yourself three questions: What have I received from others? What have I given others? What troubles and difficulties have I caused others?
Gregg Krech, who is the executive director of the ToDo Institute, which promotes principles of psychology based on Eastern traditions, has created a Thanksgiving-specific version of Naikan that helps practitioners dig further into its first question. Today on the show, we talk about the way Naikan differs from mainstream gratitude practices and is based less on feeling and more on seeing the world objectively. Gregg shares six prompts that can help you recognize the reality of how you're being supported in the world, cultivate the art of noticing, and embrace life's grace.