Practical Wisdom with Dr. Rick Hanson How to Face Challenges without Suffering
Sep 17, 2025
Life's challenges often lead us to unnecessary suffering. The podcast dives into the Buddhist concepts of dukkha (suffering), sukha (well-being), and tanha (craving). Discover how to navigate pain and pleasure without adding distress. Learn methods to reduce craving and foster genuine happiness that doesn’t rely on attachment. It emphasizes balance and presence, guiding listeners to cultivate resilience and inner peace amidst life's ups and downs.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Two Faces Of Suffering
- Rick Hanson distinguishes dukkha as both unavoidable life challenges and the additional suffering we create.
- Recognizing this difference creates hope and responsibility to develop inner strengths.
Drowning Example Of Urgent Craving
- Rick Hanson recounts nearly drowning and the intense craving for air during panic.
- He uses this to show craving's bodily, urgent quality and its occasional usefulness.
Teddy Bear And Dissertation Rescue
- Rick tells a story of rushing into an apartment to retrieve sentimental items while his wife shouted not to be stupid.
- The anecdote highlights how powerful, sometimes risky craving-driven actions can be.
