Podcasts about vimalasara

How can we bring mindful awareness to our patterns of subtle dissatisfaction that are also a form of Dukkha? Here, Vimalasara delves into the Buddhist concept of dukkha (suffering), exploring how our habitual reactions to both pleasant and unpleasant experiences can entangle us in cycles of suffering. She emphasizes that dukkha isn't just about overt pain but also includes our resistance to life's impermanence and unpredictability. Vimalasara suggests we can begin to untangle them, fostering a deeper sense of ease and presence in our lives.​Vimalasara outlines practical approaches to work with dukkha:​Mindful Observation: Recognize and observe our reactions to experiences without judgment, allowing us to see the underlying patterns of clinging and aversion.​Embodied Awareness: Engage in practices that connect us to bodily sensations, grounding us in the present moment and helping to dissolve the grip of suffering.​Compassionate Inquiry: Approach our experiences with kindness and curiosity, creating space for healing and transformation.​Through these methods, she encourages a compassionate and embodied path to understanding and alleviating dukkha, leading to greater freedom and well-being.​______________Dr. Vimalasara (Valerie) Mason-John MA (hon. doc) is a senior teacher in the Triratna Buddhist Community. She is the award-winning author of 9 books, including her most recently published in 2020 "I'm Still Your Negro: An Homage to James Baldwin," and is currently editing an anthology "Afrikan Wisdom: Black Liberation, Buddhism, and Beyond" published in 2021. She is also the author of "Detox Your Heart - Meditations for Emotional Trauma," and the award-winning book, "Eight-Step Recovery Using the Buddha's Teachings to Overcome Addiction," with 8-Step meetings in several continents. Named as one of the leading African-descent voices in the field of mindfulness approaches for addiction, she has co-founded the accredited program Mindfulness-Based Addiction Recovery MBAR. She works as a dharma teacher, public speaker, professional trainer, and mindfulness teacher. Learn more at https://www.valeriemason-john.com/  ______________ To support our efforts to share these talks with LGBTQIA audiences worldwide, please visit https://gaybuddhist.org/There you can: Donate Learn how to participate live Find our schedule of upcoming speakers Join our mailing list or discussion forum Enjoy many hundreds of these recorded talks dating back to 1996 CREDITSAudio Engineer: George HubbardProducer: Tom BrueinMusic/Logo/Artwork: Derek Lassiter

Dr. Vimalasara (Valerie) Mason-John M.A. (Hon.Doc), is a founding facilitator of Compassionate Inquiry, and is the author of 10 books, including the award winning book, “Eight Step Recovery: Using The Buddha's Teachings to Overcome Addiction” and “Detox Your Heart: Meditations for Emotional Trauma”. There are 8 Step Recovery meetings held in several continents. And they are co-founder of the training program, Mindfulness Based Addiction Recovery (MBAR), which is delivered in both English and Spanish. They work as a public speaker in the field of Mindfulness for Addiction and Trauma. They work online and in person between Canada, USA, UK and Spain. Their new book is “First Aid Kit for the Mind: Breaking the Cycle of Habitual Behaviors” Links "First Aid Kit for the Mind" Guided meditations to go with the book Author page Vimalasara's website Topics 00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Mason-John 02:25 – Discussing the Essence of Addiction 07:15 – Exploring the Eight Step Recovery 12:14 – Intersection of Addiction and Trauma 23:38 – Managing Triggers and Breaking the Cycle 28:58 – Recognizing Triggers in Meditation 29:20 – The Importance of Breathing and Transitions 29:55 – Meditation Habits and Overcoming Resistance 30:25 – Buddhism, Karma, and Addiction 31:11 – The Concept of Rebirth in Buddhism 32:19 – The Impact of Karma and Actions 35:48 – Self-Compassion and Inner Healing 36:41 – The Four Questions for Healing 38:43 – Practices for Self-Love and Acceptance 44:54 – Upcoming Projects and Retreats 48:21 – Guided RUST Meditation Practice 55:39 – Closing Thoughts and Gratitude Support the mission of SAND and the production of this podcast by becoming a SAND Member.

Welcome back to the Buddhist Recovery Network podcast! Before we dive in, check out our revamped website at BuddhistRecovery.org for meetings, resources, and more. Don't miss the 2024 Buddhist Recovery Network Summit, happening October 10th-13th at Fairview Lake YMCA in Stillwater, New Jersey. Join us for a transformative weekend featuring speakers like Kevin Griffin, Vimalasara, and Vince Cullen, plus workshops on safer Sanghas, process addictions, neurodiversity, self-compassion, and more. This event will be run like a retreat, with meditation, yoga, and shared meals. Arrive Thursday for networking and meditation, with the main programming starting Friday. Special Offer: Get 30% off your registration with the code FRIENDSONTHEPATH. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER WITH THE DISCOUNT CODE. click the orange "Reserve a Spot" button, and you'll see the discount at checkout. Don't miss out! Today's Guest: Shawna Adkins Shawna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Oakland, California. She supports adults on their wellness journeys, helping them reconnect with their Buddha Nature. She also enjoys dancing, DIY projects, and gardening. Podcast Music by Modus Music. For inquires, email: modus.music@outlook Support BRN Podcast: Buddhist Recovery Network by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/brn-podcast Find out more at https://brn-podcast.pinecast.co

Episode Notes Welcome back to the Buddhist Recovery Network podcast! Before we dive in, check out our revamped website at BuddhistRecovery.org for meetings, resources, and more. Don't miss the 2024 Buddhist Recovery Network Summit, happening October 10th-13th at Fairview Lake YMCA in Stillwater, New Jersey. Join us for a transformative weekend featuring speakers like Kevin Griffin, Vimalasara, and Vince Cullen, plus workshops on safer Sanghas, process addictions, neurodiversity, self-compassion, and more. This event will be run like a retreat, with meditation, yoga, and shared meals. Arrive Thursday for networking and meditation, with the main programming starting Friday. Special Offer: Get 30% off your registration with the code FRIENDSONTHEPATH. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER WITH THE DISCOUNT CODE. click the orange "Reserve a Spot" button, and you'll see the discount at checkout. Don't miss out! Today's Guest: Sitaram Dass (K. Sandin, LCSW) spent several years serving his beloved teacher Ram Dass on Maui, where he was shown the path of Bhakti Yoga, the yoga of service and devotion. As the Director of the Sacred Community Project, he works to lower the barriers of access to contemplative and devotional practices through affordable, free, and donation-based offerings, spiritual support, and prison outreach. He is also a spiritual counselor who can provide spiritual and mindfulness coaching worldwide and is a licensed therapist in the states of Oregon and California. His book, From and for God, is an intimate and contemplative collection of writings on the spiritual path. Podcast Music by Modus Music. For inquires, email: modus.music@outlook Support BRN Podcast: Buddhist Recovery Network by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/brn-podcast Find out more at https://brn-podcast.pinecast.co

DR. VIMALASARA also known as (VALERIE) MASON-JOHN M.A (HON.DOC) to the show. Vimalasara is a founding facilitator of Compassionate Inquiry, and is the author of 10 books, including the award winning book, “Eight Step Recovery: Using The Buddha's Teachings to Overcome Addiction” and “Detox Your Heart: Meditations for Emotional Trauma”. There are 8 Step Recovery meetings held in several continents. And they are co-founder of the training program, Mindfulness Based Addiction Recovery (MBAR), which is delivered in both English and Spanish. They work as a public speaker in the field of Mindfulness for Addiction and Trauma. They also work online and in person between Canada, USA, UK and Spain. In today's episode we speak about: Their personal story of eating disorders, food addiction and recovery  How to work with the shame we experience around eating disorders and food addiction  The mutual help recovery community Vimalasara created: Eight Step Recovery: Using the Buddhist Teaching to Overcome Addiction Their new book  First Aid Kit for the Mind: Breaking the Cycle of Habitual Behaviours  Vimalasara does two practices in this episode around SHAME and LOVE  FOLLOW: Vimalasara (VALERIE) MASON-JOHN M.A (HON.DOC) Website: https://www.valeriemason-john.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VMasonJohn Instagram: vmasonjohn Twitter: @VMasonJohn  

In this episode of "Sisters in Sobriety," host Sonia Kahlon is joined by the inspiring Valerie Mason-John, also known as Vimalasara. Valerie is a renowned author and public speaker whose work in the field of addiction and recovery has made a profound impact. Today, Sonia explores Valerie's unique approach to addiction recovery, which blends mindfulness, compassion, and holistic practices. They will be discussing Valerie's journey, their groundbreaking methodologies, and how these can help listeners on their own sobriety journeys.Valerie Mason-John (Vimalasara) is the author of several acclaimed books, including "Eight Step Recovery: Using the Buddha's Teachings to Overcome Addiction" and "Detox Your Heart: Meditations for Emotional Trauma." They are also a public speaker and co-founder of the international Mindfulness-Based Addiction Recovery (MBAR) program. With their extensive background in both addiction recovery and Buddhism, Valerie offers a unique perspective that combines practical strategies with spiritual insights. Their latest book, "First Aid Kit for the Mind: Breaking the Cycle of Habitual Behaviors," continues to provide valuable tools for those seeking recovery.Throughout the episode, listeners will delve into key questions such as: What are the primary triggers for addictive behaviors? How can mindfulness and meditation be integrated into recovery practices? What role does self-compassion play in overcoming addiction? By addressing these questions, the episode provides valuable insights and practical strategies for listeners on their sobriety journey.Educational takeaways from this episode include understanding the habit loop of addiction, the importance of creating a personalized recovery plan, and techniques for managing cravings and triggers. Listeners will also learn about the benefits of meditation and mindfulness, and how these practices can support long-term recovery and emotional well-being.In the personal story segment, Valerie shares their journey from struggling with addiction to becoming a leader in the recovery community. Their candid account of overcoming challenges and finding empowerment through mindfulness and compassion is both moving and motivational. Valerie also discusses how their Buddhist practice has shaped their approach to addiction and recovery, providing deeper insights into the spiritual aspects of their journey.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Highlights:[00:01:00] - Introduction to Valerie Mason-John, also known as Vimalasara, author and public speaker with a profound impact on the field of addiction and recovery.[00:02:00] - Valerie's early life and initial struggles with addiction, including sugar and shoe cleaner.[00:04:00] - Valerie discussing the challenges of disordered eating and their journey with bulimia and anorexia.[00:06:00] - The turning point in Valerie's life when they realized the need to seek recovery.[00:07:30] - Valerie's experience working with women in rehab and the influence of the Petrasca cycle of change.[00:09:00] - The beginning of Valerie's sobriety journey and the role of meditation and mindfulness.[00:10:20] - Valerie's one-woman show and how it influenced their recovery from disordered eating.[00:11:00] - The role of specialized treatment in Valerie's recovery from disordered eating.[00:12:30] - Valerie discussing the importance of mindfulness and meditation in their recovery.[00:13:30] - How Buddhist teachings, particularly the Four Noble Truths, shaped Valerie's approach to recovery.[00:15:00] - Valerie explaining the concept of “going for refuge” in Buddhism and its impact on their recovery.[00:17:00] - The significance of letting go in the context of recovery and stopping addictive behaviors.[00:19:00] - The story of Angulimala and its relevance to addiction recovery.[00:22:00] - The difference between stopping a thought and spiritual bypassing in recovery.[00:23:30] - Valerie's perspective on self-love and compassion as critical components of recovery.[00:25:00] - The importance of addressing childhood conditioning and trauma in the recovery process.[00:27:00] - Valerie distinguishing between mindfulness and meditation and their interconnection.[00:30:00] - The realization that the biggest addiction was their own thinking and how to manage stinking thinking.[00:34:00] - The practice of recognizing thoughts without a thinker and understanding that thoughts are not facts.[00:40:00] - Valerie explaining the concept of coming home to the body and its significance in recoverLinks:First Aid Kit for the Mind BookValerie Mason-John's WebsiteSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen's Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen's Instagram

Today, Dhammamegha speaks with award winning author and speaker Valerie (Vimalasara) Mason John about their soon-to-be-released pocketbook First Aid Kit for the Mind: Breaking the Cycle of Habitual Behaviours. We hear about Vimalasara's life and writing, and the deep well of experience through trauma and addiction recovery and mindfulness. They speak from the heart about all the tools to connect what you already have to live more embodied, skilful and free. These tools are all laid out in this small, illustrated, easy-to-use guide to healing the mind. Order First Aid Kit for the Mind online, from your nearest independent bookshop or:  Buy First Aid Kit for the Mind (Europe) Buy First Aid Kit for the Mind (US & Canada)   Find out more about Valerie (Vimalasara) Mason-John. FutureDharma Fund Follow Windhorse Publications on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok. Subscribe to our newsletter.

Valerie Mason-John (Vimalasara) is a writer, Buddhist teacher, a person in recovery, and the founder of Eight Step Recovery. In this episode of Flourishing After Addiction, Vimalasara shares their transformative journey, beginning with childhood in an orphanage and evolving through various addictions, with a particular focus on their struggle with bulimia, to arrive at their current role as a spiritual teacher and author. Their story is a testament to the complexity of eating disorders and their commonalities with traditional addictions, with implications for all varieties of compulsive behavior.Through probing the nature of compulsive eating, Vimalasara describes the essence of addiction from the Buddhist perspective. We discuss how to work with craving, chronic relapse, and the drive toward substitute addictions, redirecting oneself instead toward “sobriety of thoughts and feelings,” highlighting Vimalasara's journey toward finding balance and peace, rather than simply stopping the behavior.This discussion is also a great exploration of various recovery methods and pathways, including especially the mutual help recovery community Vimalasara created, the Eight Step Recovery program. If you are curious to learn more about what actually happens in these types of alternative mutual help groups, this is a great introduction. This part of the conversation also highlights the value of a pluralistic, diverse approach to recovery, one that is necessarily in constant flux—for example, how Vimalasara is now in a relationship with a “big book thumper!”Finally, we discuss Vimalasara's perspective on how addiction intersects with timeless issues in mental health and wellness, from her first addiction—“to be in control of life”—to her biggest addiction: “to be loved and noticed.” They give us practical pointers for practice, working with difficult feelings, and concludes with a brief guided practice that can be helpful for a variety of habitual behaviors.Valerie Mason-John (Vimalasara) is an award-winning author and editor of ten books, including Eight Step Recovery: Using The Buddha's Teachings to Overcome Addiction, and Detox Your Heart: Meditations for Emotional Trauma. Their book I Am Still Your Negro: An Homage to James Baldwin was shortlisted for both the Dorothy Livesay and Gerald Lampert Awards. They are the co-founder of the mutual help group Eight Step Recovery, which holds meetings in the UK, USA, Canada, Mexico, India, Finland, and online. They are a senior teacher in the Triratna Buddhist community.In this episode: - Their book - Eight Step Recovery - The ethical precepts of Buddhism, stated positively. - Kevin Griffin, friend of the pod. My interview with him here.Sign up for my newsletter and immediately receive my own free guide to the many pathways to recovery, as well as regular updates on new interviews, material, and other writings.

In this episode:Vimalasara's recovery journeyThe relationship between sexual trauma and eating disordersMindfulness training for recoveryNervous system regulationEight Step Recovery: Using the Buddha's teachings to overcome additionBeing of service in recoveryThe Hungry Ghost Advice for those still strugglingPoet, author, and public speaker Valerie Mason-John (Vimalasara) is the award-winning author/editor of ten books. Their debut novel, Borrowed Body, won the 2006 Mind Book of the Year Award. They co-authored the award-winning book Eight Step Recovery: Using the Buddha's Teachings to Overcome Addiction. And authored Detox Your Heart Meditations for Emotional Trauma. They are one of the founding facilitators of  Dr. Gabor's Mate's Compassionate Inquiry, and have curated ten conversations on the  Psychedelics as a Path to Freedom: A New Frontier for Mental Health Treatment Their most recent book, published in 2020, I Am Still Your Negro: An Homage to James Baldwinhas won critical acclaim. They began writing as an international correspondent covering Aboriginal deaths in custody and land rights in Australia. They are a senior teacher in the Triratna Buddhist Community and one of the leading African descent voices in the field of mindfulness for addiction. In 2024 A First Aid Kit for The mind: Working with habitual behaviours will be published. They  work as an international public speaker and professional trainer in the field of mindfulness approaches for addiction and trauma.They live on the Sunshine Coast, British Columbia, and can be found online at valeriemason-john.com___See links below to join the Sun & Moon Community and learn more about upcoming events:Retreat Waitlist: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/retreat-waitlistVirtual Membership: https://sunandmoonsoberliving.com/membership/Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Loch and Valerie (Vimalasara) Mason-John, a leading voice in mindfulness and addiction recovery, dive deep into a discussion about relieving "perpetual dissatisfaction" through Buddhist teachings and the expansive ground of awake consciousness. Dr. Valerie (Vimalasara) Mason-John, M.A (hon.doc) has been practicing mindfulness for over 30 years and is one of the leading African-descent voices in the field of mindfulness and addiction. They is the award-winning author of 10 books, and the co-author and co-founder of Eight Step Recovery: Using The Buddha's Teaching to Overcome Addiction. Valerie — also known as Vimalasara — was ordained into the Triratna Buddhist Community and is a senior teacher in this tradition. They is the co-creator of Mindfulness Based Addiction Recovery (MBAR) and is a certified professional Mindfulness Teacher, Recovery Coach, Life Coach, and a Compassionate Inquiry Facilitator and Practitioner. She trains professionals working in the field of addiction all over the world. To view a recording of this episode and other guided meditations visit: https://www.youtube.com/@LochKelly For Valerie's website: https://www.valeriemason-john.com/ To reach the Buddhist Recovery Network: https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/ For more info about Loch, visit: https://lochkelly.org/ For additional information about this podcast, visit: https://podcast.effortlessmindfulness.com/ For the Loch Kelly App, visit: https://effortlessmindfulness.com and to donate, visit: https://lochkelly.org/donate.

What do you get when you invite a set of experienced American Dharma teachers and friends from different Buddhist traditions to gather together post-Covid and share their practice and experience of American Buddhism? Well, something like this! The bright joy and sense of common tradition is palpable. Hear four Gen-X Triratna Order members with deep connections to our community, both in the UK and US, in a round-table conversation with other Dharma farers from Vajrayana, Vipassana, and Zen traditions. We explore kaleidoscopic difference and beautiful sameness in our various approaches to Dharma practice – and are united in grappling with being the “middle generation” of Buddhists in some of the new lineages of the West. Perhaps the central image from this conversation is of people needing to make sure they are carrying their culture with them, which allows us to be truly radical and ensure the revolutionary change we strive for as Buddhists is a genuine possibility for everyone in future. It's genuinely inspiring to hear the voices of “future ancestors” openly embracing the reality that long, deep change may not happen in their own lifetime, yet persisting with delight in Dharma practice. Gratitude for what we have inherited is key to that, and shines through in this fascinating meeting recorded at the end of a long, hot summer near the Catskills in New York State. Featuring Ananta, Candradasa, Claire Villareal, Tenzen David Zimmerman, Singhashri, Stephanie Tait, Vimalasara, Upayadhi, Lama Zangmo. Recorded at the Won Dharma Center, NY, USA. Show notes Gen-x 2019 Podcast Be the Refuge: Raising the Voices of Asian American Buddhists by Chenxing Han Sankofa (pronounced SAHN-koh-fah): a word in the Twi language of Ghana meaning “go back and get" My Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies by Resmaa Menakem The Wisdom of Uncertainty by Kurt Spellmeyer (Tricycle) *** Visit The Buddhist Centre Live (events year-round on Buddhism, mindfulness, meditation, and culture) Come meditate with us online six days a week! Theme music by Ackport! Used with kind permission.

@BanyenBooks joins Valerie Mason-John (Vimalasara) for a conversation on her book, 'Afrikan Wisdom' — spiritual, political, and interdisciplinary anthology of wisdom stories from Black liberation leaders and teachers. Vimalasara is an accredited Life Coach and Addictions Coach. They are also one of the founding facilitators of Dr Gabor Mate's Compassionate Inquiry CI course. They are trained in both CI and Internal Family Systems IFS, and work as a Mindfulness Coach to help liberate people from the prison of their minds. They are ordained into the Triratna Community, and have been practising Buddhism for over 30 years.

(Spirit Rock Meditation Center)

It's always good news when one of our books starts selling well. But in this case, the popularity of Eight Step Recovery: Using the Buddha's Teachings to Overcome Addiction points to the rise of compulsive and addictive behaviour and thought over lockdown and beyond. Dhammamegha sat down to talk with the book's co-author, Valerie Mason-John (Buddhist Order name Vimalasara).  Perhaps you're aware of compulsion in yourself or others? In this podcast, Vimalasara and Dhammamegha talk about ‘stinking thinking' and the difficult and beautiful path to sobriety of thoughts and feelings, putting something positive and wholesome at the centre of our lives.  Subscribe to our newsletter to get notified about future podcast releases.   Links:  Order Eight Step Recovery online from your nearest independent bookshop or:  Buy Eight Step Recovery (Europe) Buy Eight Step Recovery (US & Canada) Audio book edition   About Vimalasara and her website FutureDharma Fund Follow Windhorse Publications on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Meditation teacher, author, and speaker Vimalasara grew up in an orphanage in Britain and developed mindfulness techniques as a child to cope with the harsh punishments they faced. Later, Vimalasara became the author of several books, and it was a trip to India for their ordination as a Buddhist that provided the inspiration for the book "Broken Voices" and a shift in their life's perspective. Subscribe to "The Stories We Tell" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts, or listen on the RoundGlass Living App.

Today we're joined by the UK-based Valerie Mason-John, also known as  Vimalasara, a leader in the field of mindfulness for addiction and trauma.This episode is about the ways we get disconnected from our bodies and our lives, and the role self-compassion can play in bringing us home. We explore this in the context of our addictions – even addictions we don't realize are addictions, like, in Vimalasara's words, “stinking thinking” and technology. And we explore it in the context of contemporary challenges like coronavirus, and the institutional racism and violence directed to Black bodies. For Vimalasara, the medicine is self-compassion – delivered with fierceness and strength. She guides us into a 16-minute meditation she calls the “five basic needs of the heart.” And then at the end of our time together, she guides a sobering inquiry into what she calls the “five questions of the shaman.” One of them – “when did you stop dancing?” – kind of drops a bomb into your brain!To go straight to the “five basic needs of the heart” practice, it begins at 3:35 and ends at 19:33.Links• Valerie's website, where you can also find all our resources on recovery and addiction https://www.valeriemason-john.comSupport the show

Vimalasara gives a thorough talk on the third precept, exploring some of the issues we all need to reflect on if we are to live life more fully with simplicity, contentment and stillness. Relevant to modern day living, this talk also signposts some of the issues that women and queer people have to contend with when reflecting on this precept. Talk given at Taraloka Retreat Centre, 2013. *** Help keep FBA free for everyone! Become a supporter today.  Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast - bite-size pieces of Dharma inspiration, two times a week! Follow our blog for news and new Dharma FBA on Twitter FBA on Facebook FBA on Soundcloud

In this question/response session, Vimalasara highlights the 8-Step Recovery Program, consisting of:1. Accepting that this human life will bring suffering2. Seeing how we create extra suffering in our lives3. Recognizing impermanence shows us that our suffering can end4. Being willing to step onto the path of recovery, and discover freedom5. Transforming our speech, actions, and livelihood6. Placing positive values at the center of our lives7. Making every effort to stay on the path of recovery8. Helping others to share the benefits I have gained____________ Dr. Vimalasara (Valerie) Mason-John MA (hon. doc) is a senior teacher in the Triratna Buddhist Community. She is the award-winning author of 9 books, including her most recently published in 2020 "I'm Still Your Negro: An Homage to James Baldwin," and is currently editing an anthology "Afrikan Wisdom: Black Liberation, Buddhism, and Beyond" published in 2021. She is also the author of "Detox Your Heart - Meditations for Emotional Trauma," and the award-winning book, "Eight-Step Recovery Using the Buddha's Teachings to Overcome Addiction," with 8-Step meetings in several continents. Named as one of the leading African-descent voices in the field of mindfulness approaches for addiction, she has co-founded the accredited program Mindfulness-Based Addiction Recovery MBAR. She works as a dharma teacher, public speaker, professional trainer, and mindfulness teacher. Learn more at https://www.valeriemason-john.com/   Support the show______________ To participate live and be notified of upcoming speakers in advance, please Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/gaybuddhistfellowship) or visit https://gaybuddhist.org/calendar/ To support our efforts to share these talks with LGBTQIA audiences worldwide, please visit www.GayBuddhist.org.There you can: Donate Learn how to participate live Find our schedule of upcoming speakers Join our mailing list or discussion forum Enjoy many hundreds of these recorded talks dating back to 1996 CREDITSAudio Engineer: George HubbardProducer: Tom BrueinMusic/Logo/Artwork: Derek Lassiter

This week's guest is Vimalasara (Valerie) Mason-John, an award winning author of 9 books,  including her most timely book published this year I'm Still Your Negro, An Homage to James Baldwin. She is the co-founder of the accredited program Mindfulness Based Addiction Recovery MBAR and of Eight Step Recovery, an alternative and addition to the 12 step recovery meetings. She is one of the leading African Descent voices in the field of mindfulness approaches for addiction. Ordained into the Triratna Buddhist Community, she is a senior teacher in her lineage, and works as a lead facilitator and practitioner in the field of Compassionate Inquiry as taught by Dr Gabor Mate. www.valeriemason-john.com  

Re-Release from Taboo Addictions. Vimalasara talks about eating disorder recovery.BRN Podcast will be taking a break for the next month. If you have ideas for 2020 episodes or want to be involved in any way please email me at finding.valentine@gmail.comZoom link for our online Xmas Day meeting: https://zoom.us/j/518564313 or you can find the link on our website BuddhistRecovery.org or on our facebook page.Want to meditate with us Xmas Morning? Come hand out with Vimalasara and the community for a BRN meeting Xmas morning. The President of BRN will be sharing top tips to stay abstinent at Christmas and will hold space for anybody who is needing support and connection. Number one tip reach out for help and number two tip join us on BRN at 9:30am Pacific Time - 12:30pm Eastern Time and 5:30pm UK Time on Xmas dayFind out more at https://brn-podcast.pinecast.co

Top up on tips and coping mechanisms to deal with the next 32 days. Do the festive season with a sense of freedom and joy. Recorded from the Buddhist Recovery Network Academy: Watch the Triggers: The Festive Season is Here featuring Vimalasara Mason John. BRN Academy Live https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/academyDana/Donation https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/donateBuddhist Recovery Network https://www.BuddhistRecovery.org/Buddhist Recovery Network FacebookFind out more at https://brn-podcast.pinecast.co

Si fumas, bebes o te tomas orfidales... ¿lo haces para huir? A menudo, nos drogamos porque no queremos "sentir", porque no aceptamos esa ansiedad o ese presente. Por eso, hoy, tenemos el placer de entrevistar a Valerie Mason-John, una de las mayores expertas del mundo en adicciones y de la aplicación del mindfulness para superarlas.¿Quieres un empujón extra para aprender a meditar y conseguir transformar tu vida? Entra en www.clubbuenosdias.com y apúntate al GIM antes del 14 de octubre: podrás probarlo gratis y, si te quedas, pagarás la cuota mínima para siempre! (El 14 de octubre subirá a 19). Ahora es el momento, tu momento!Será un placer saludarte personalmente.Oliver.

Gary Sanders and Vimalasara speak about Gary's choice to leave Against the Stream and Refuge Recovery, using Hallucinogens in addiction recovery & the importance of the Brahma Viharas.We are accepting donations to offer scholarships to the Buddhist Recovery Summit https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/donateBuddhist Recovery Daylong Olympia WA https://waking-up.eventbrite.comFind out more at https://brn-podcast.pinecast.co

This episode features a conversation between Vimalasara and Sue Neufeld-Ellis covering the topic of sexual misconduct in spiritual communities and creating safer spaces. BRN Academy Live https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/academyWe are accepting donations to offer scholorships to the Summit https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/donateInternational BRN Summit https://www.buddhistrecoverysummit.org/Find out more at https://brn-podcast.pinecast.co

At the end of this podcast you'll discover about six minutes of musical joy as we're played out by the amazing marimba band from Great Vow Zen Monastery, hosts of the 2019 Generation-X Dharma Teachers conference near Portland, Oregon in the Pacific Northwest region of the USA. But before that... A terrific round-table conversation with some of the organizers and participants gathering to look at ethics and power dynamics in the life of Buddhist communities. Join Candradasa, Rebecca Li, Lama Rod Owens, Singhashri and Vimalasara to hear about a strong few days exploring how we learn from the past as sanghas and support each other well as the torch is passed from one generation to another. Recorded at Great Vow Zen Monastery, June 2019.

A Conversation with Kevin Griffin & Vimalasara on the Buddhist Sutta's and more... Listen for a sneak peak into what to expect at the upcoming Buddhist Recovery Summit. Register at BuddhistRecoverySummit.orgCheck out Kevin's Website http://www.kevingriffin.net/We are accepting donations to offer scholorships to the Summit https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/donateInternational BRN Summit https://www.buddhistrecoverysummit.org/BRN Academy Live https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/academyFind out more at https://brn-podcast.pinecast.co

A Conversation with Kevin Griffin & Vimalasara on Kevins books, Buddhist Sutta's and more... Listen for a sneak peak into what to expect at the upcoming Buddhist Recovery Summit. Register at BuddhistRecoverySummit.orgCheck out Kevin's Website http://www.kevingriffin.net/Offer Dana & Support BRN https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/donateInternational BRN Summit https://www.buddhistrecoverysummit.org/BRN Academy Live https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/academyFind out more at https://brn-podcast.pinecast.co

A Conversation with Deborah Grace & Vimalasara on sex & love addiction and more... Part 3 of a 3 part series giving a sneak peak into what to expect at the upcoming Buddhist Recovery Summit. Register at BuddhistRecoverySummit.orgOffer Dana & Support BRN https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/donateInternational BRN Summit https://www.buddhistrecoverysummit.org/BRN Academy Live https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/academy

A Conversation with Deborah Grace & Vimalasara on sex & love addiction and more... Part 2 of a 3 part series giving a sneak peak into what to expect at the upcoming Buddhist Recovery Summit. Register at BuddhistRecoverySummit.orgOffer Dana & Support BRN https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/donateInternational BRN Summit https://www.buddhistrecoverysummit.org/BRN Academy Live https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/academy

A Conversation with Vimalasara & Deborah Grace on interracial adoption, sex & love addiction and more... Part one of a 3 part series giving a sneak peak into what to expect at the upcoming Buddhist Recovery Summit. Register at BuddhistRecoverySummit.orgOffer Dana & Support BRN https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/donateInternational BRN Summit https://www.buddhistrecoverysummit.org/BRN Academy Live https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/academy

Check out this week’s FBA Podcast: What’s Race, Gender, Sexuality and Skin Color Got to Do with Non-Self by Vimalasara. A timely and thought-provoking talk given at a People of Color (POC) day-long retreat at San Francisco’s East Bay Meditation Center 2019. The East Bay Meditation Center hosts teachers from all lineages to teach the Dharma to their POC, LGBTQI2, Differently Abled and Scent Free Communities. Talk given February 2019 in San Francisco.

Offer Dana & Support BRN https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/donateInternational BRN Summit https://www.buddhistrecoverysummit.org/BRN Academy Live https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/academy

Support BRN https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/donateRegional Buddhsit Recovery Summit in Oakland CA @ Eastbay Meditation Center. Jean Tuller, Kevin Griffin, Vimalasara, Stephen Teirney, Agusta Hopkins, Carol EBMC discuss what the World needs in the midst of the current addiction crisis.

Support BRN https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/donateRegional Buddhsit Recovery Summit in Oakland CA @ Eastbay Meditation Center. Jean Tuller, Kevin Griffin, Vimalasara, Stephen Teirney, Agusta Hopkins, Carol EBMC discuss what the World needs in the midst of the current addiction crisis.

In this episode we are joined Dr Valerie Mason-John (hon. doc.), award winning author of 8 books, including Eight Step Recovery – Using the Buddha’s Teaching to Overcome Addiction and Detox Your Heart – Meditations on Emotional Trauma. She is one of the leading African-descent voices on mindfulness and addiction.Known also as Vimalasara, she has been in recovery from bulimia, anorexia nervosa, and recreational substances and has lived a clean and sober life since 2002. She joins us to discuss her past, how she became a mindfulness and sobriety expert, and advice for those out there that suffer from addiction.Tweet Valerie Mason-John!Tweet us!Email us: jason.alme@teamalme.com

Support BRN https://www.buddhistrecovery.org/donateImagine not being able to find your way home to your loved one’s, to your friends and family. Imagine how traumatic this would be. And this is the same trauma we experience when we have split from our body and can not find our way back into the body. We have to find our way back home to our body if we want freedom from the prison of our minds.The Buddha was teaching us to breathe through the body, feelings, mental formation and all mind objects with calm. The anapanasati meditation, the mindfulness of breathing is teaching us to come back to the body.The journey of wisdom is learning to find our way back to the body. But some of us have lost our way home because our bodies were violated in childhood. To protect ourselves we made sure nobody was at home in our body. We switched all feeling off.If we are able to find our way back home. Turn all the feelings back on in the body. We will learn to turn towards our direct experience unfolding in every moment.In Vipassana meditation we are saying come back to the body, come back to the breathing, inhabit your body, and be in direct experience with whatever is arising in the now.The body is the home for all of us. It's where we live all our lives, and if we are not at peace in our body, we will not be at peace in any other areas of our lives. We have to learn to befriend our body, and not treat it like an enemy. And know it is safe to have our feelings now.We come home to the body with breath. (This is an edited version from Vimalasara's new course for Insight Timer launching September 10th)Three tips for practiceBreatheDo nothing when discomfort, comfort or neutral sensations arise in the body or mindBe kind and compassionate to yourself by remembering to pauseVimalasara (Valerie) Mason-John is the current President of BRN. She was the co-founder and guiding teacher of Healing and Insight, an online faculty that explored the sharp edges of suffering. Award-winning author of 8 books, she is the co-founder and co-author of Eight Step Recovery: Using The Buddha's Teachings to Overcome Addiction, with 8 step meetings in 3 continents. And she is also the co-founder of Mindfulness-Based Addiction Recovery. Vimalasara is a senior teacher in the Triratna Order and Community.

Buddhism teaches that craving is the cause of suffering. Certainly when we abuse drugs, alcohol, food, sex or other substances or behaviors we create suffering for ourselves and others and are not the most effective in making the world a better place for all. Host Marlena Willis talks with Valerie Mason-John, also known as Vimalasara, who herself used the Buddha's teachings to overcome addiction. She shares her experience with others on how Buddhism can support recovery. Vimalasara (Valerie) Mason-John co-authored the award-winning book Eight Step Recovery – Using the Buddha's Teachings to Overcome Addiction. She is president of the Buddhist Recovery Network and is the cofounder of a secular mindfulness program for addiction. She is also the author of the new revised edition of Detox Your Heart – Meditations For Emotional Trauma. She is a leading African-Canadian voice in the field of Mindfulness for Emotional Trauma and Addiction. The post Craving and the End of Craving appeared first on KPFA.

In this week’s FBA Podcast, “Eight Step Recovery” Vimalasara speaks on the importance of loving oneself as a part of recovery from addiction as an introduction to her new book, co-authored with Paramabandhu, entitled ‘Eight Step Recovery – Using the Buddha’s Teachings to Overcome Addiction’. She goes on to discuss the life conditions that she and Paramabandhu have emerged from, and how those energies came together and inspired the writing of the book. Outlining the eight steps, Vimalasara demonstrates that, while the book was mainly written for those in recovery, it is in some way for everyone. The talk is followed by a question and answer session.

Adhisthana's Dedication Ceremony - interviews with Vimalasara, from Canada, seeing it for the first time, and Ajjavin the mastermind behind the building project - two very different perspectives! #adhisthana #triratna. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/podcast/the-buddhist-centre-online/id498033013

Padmadharini has practiced in the tradition of the Friends of the Western Buddhist Order (FWBO) since 1989 and was ordained into the Western Buddhist Order (WBO) in 2004. She is actively involved in the spiritual direction of the San Francisco Buddhist Center, where she teaches meditation and leads Dharma courses. Dr. Vimalasara (Valerie) Mason-John MA (hon. doc) is a senior teacher in the Triratna Buddhist Community. She is the award-winning author of 9 books, including her most recently published in 2020 "I'm Still Your Negro: An Homage to James Baldwin," and is currently editing an anthology "Afrikan Wisdom: Black Liberation, Buddhism, and Beyond" published in 2021. She is also the author of "Detox Your Heart - Meditations for Emotional Trauma," and the award-winning book, "Eight-Step Recovery Using the Buddha's Teachings to Overcome Addiction," with 8-Step meetings in several continents. Named as one of the leading African descent voices in the field of mindfulness approaches for addiction, she has co-founded the accredited program Mindfulness-Based Addiction Recovery MBAR. She works as a dharma teacher, public speaker, professional trainer, and mindfulness teacher. Learn more at https://www.valeriemason-john.com/ Support the show______________ To participate live and be notified of upcoming speakers in advance, please Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/gaybuddhistfellowship) or visit https://gaybuddhist.org/calendar/ To support our efforts to share these talks with LGBTQIA audiences worldwide, please visit www.GayBuddhist.org.There you can: Donate Learn how to participate live Find our schedule of upcoming speakers Join our mailing list or discussion forum Enjoy many hundreds of these recorded talks dating back to 1996 CREDITSAudio Engineer: George HubbardProducer: Tom BrueinMusic/Logo/Artwork: Derek Lassiter