Sister True Dedication, a Zen Buddhist nun ordained by the renowned Thich Nhat Hanh, shares insights from her transformative journey from journalism to monastic life. She introduces six powerful mantras to improve relationships and prevent misunderstandings. The conversation explores how technology can hurt communication, emphasizing the need for presence and emotional connection. With humor and personal anecdotes, she illustrates the positive impact of mindfulness practices on our daily interactions, promoting deeper understanding and empathy.
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Modern Mantras
Use mantras as "code words" to unlock difficult situations and shift energy.
Speak them out loud in any language, like normal speech, for practical application.
insights INSIGHT
Importance of Communication
Human connection makes life meaningful and joyful, but modern life presents communication challenges.
Despite hyper-connectivity, many feel lonely due to noise and lack of quality interaction.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Non-Verbal Communication
Cultivate presence through non-verbal communication, showing up physically and attentively.
Counteract distraction by being present with your body, not just your words.
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This book, compiled from the teachings and writings of Thich Nhat Hanh, focuses on the application of Zen Buddhist principles to address the urgent environmental and social crises of our time. It emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, compassion, and collective awakening. The book is divided into sections that discuss changing our relationship with the Earth, taking action to implement positive changes, and building communities that share these insights. It highlights the need for inner transformation and deep listening as foundational steps towards creating a regenerative world where all life is respected. The teachings are presented through Thay's meditations, Zen stories, and experiences from his activism, along with commentaries from Sister True Dedication[1][3][5].
The Art of Communicating
Thich Nhat Hanh
In this book, Thich Nhat Hanh provides a precise and practical guide on how to communicate effectively. He emphasizes the importance of mindful communication, starting with oneself and then extending to others. The book covers key topics such as deep listening, loving speech, and managing anger. It includes examples from his work with couples, families, and international conflicts, highlighting how these skills can transform personal and global interactions. The author advocates for using mindfulness practices, such as conscious breathing, to enhance communication and reduce suffering[1][2][4].
Art of Living
Epictetus
Sharon Lebell
This book presents Epictetus's teachings in a modern and accessible way, focusing on the ninety-three instructions that make up 'The Art of Living'. It stresses the importance of distinguishing between what is within one's control and what is not, and offers practical advice on meeting everyday challenges and facing life's inevitable losses with grace. The book is based on Epictetus's original works, 'The Discourses' and 'Enchiridion', and is interpreted by Sharon Lebell to capture the essence of Stoic philosophy for a contemporary audience.
Sapiens
A Brief History of Humankind
Yuval Noah Harari
This book surveys the history of humankind from the Stone Age to the 21st century, focusing on Homo sapiens. It divides human history into four major parts: the Cognitive Revolution, the Agricultural Revolution, the Unification of Humankind, and the Scientific Revolution. Harari argues that Homo sapiens dominate the world due to their unique ability to cooperate in large numbers through beliefs in imagined realities such as gods, nations, money, and human rights. The book also examines the impact of human activities on the global ecosystem and speculates on the future of humanity, including the potential for genetic engineering and non-organic life.
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Relationships can be tricky. Especially if you find yourself upset with someone, and instead of talking it through, you let it fester until one moment you completely lose it and end up having to apologize. If you’ve ever felt like you had friction with the people in your life, or that you’ve been taken for granted, today’s episode offers you solid strategies to cope.
Sister True Dedication is a Zen Buddhist nun and teacher ordained by the great meditation teacher and author, Thich Nhat Hanh. She edited several of Thich Nhat Hanh’s books, including The Art of Living and Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet. She was born in the United Kingdom, studied history and political thought at Cambridge University, and worked for BBC News before ordaining as a nun at the age of 27.
In this episode we talk about:
The six phrases – or mantras – that Thich Nhat Hanh recommended people use in their relationships
Keeping misunderstandings “dust free”
Taking action to make sure anger doesn’t fester
The importance of recognizing that our understanding of the world is always partial
Bringing mantras to work
How Sister True Dedication went from journalism to the monastery
10% Happier with Dan Harris 
