Rev. Christie Bates (Passatininna), a licensed professional counselor and ordained Buddhist lay minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order, speaking as co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma, Mondays 7PM CT. This episode is a recording of the 9/20/2021 talk and discusses aspects of "practice," death and the Buddha's awakening to 1) his own cycles of death and birth, 2) how actions condition those cycles, and 3) the Practice or Path that leads to freedom from those cycles.

More information about Deep South Dharma, as well as the Zoom link for the Monday night class, can be found at www.deepsouthdharma.org

Articles about various aspects of Buddhism can be found at https://medium.com/the-fifth-posture

Christine Bates, a licensed professional counselor and ordained Buddhist lay minister in the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order, shares the fifth of five posts on Mindful Parenting, based on the work of Dave Richo.

More information about Deep South Dharma can be found at www.deepsouthdharma.org

Articles about various aspects of the practice of Buddhism can be found at https://medium.com/the-fifth-posture

A recording of "Midweek Meditation" offered by Christie* to a LIVE practice group via Zoom. Midweek Meditation happens Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org or at passaticounseling.com

Join Christie, Jaya, and the Oxford (MS) Practice community online Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

If you enjoying read articles on Dharma and related topics, Christie has a few of those on Medium. Medium.com/@christiebates

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

News on an upcoming interview, service projects available, and then Christie* shares reflection on the ways that the Dharma offers a sense of direction when we are facing confusion.

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie* (15 min sessions currently available at your own rate, as well as the usual hour or half hour), visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

Midweek Meditation happens Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org or at passaticounseling.com

Join Christie, Jaya, and the rest of the Oxford (MS) Practice Group in meeting Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page..

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

Christie* offers a brief intro and meditation on the unconditional commitment to serenity - AKA equanimity.

Midweek Meditation happens Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central, for as long as people are sheltering in place. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org or at the counseling/spiritual direction site passaticounseling.com

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie* (15 min sessions currently available at your own rate, in addition to the usual 30 or 55 minutes), OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling via teletherapy, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

Join Christie, Jaya, and the rest of the Oxford (MS) Practice Group in meeting Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page..

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

Even if you're not protesting in the streets, something in you may still be trying to assert control via self-criticism. This is the follow-up talk Christie* promised during Midweek Meditation a few days ago.

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie* (15 min sessions currently available at your own rate), OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling via teletherapy, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

Midweek Meditation happens Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central, for as long as people are sheltering in place. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org or at the counseling/spiritual direction site passaticounseling.com

Join Christie, Jaya, and the rest of the Oxford (MS) Practice Group in meeting Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page..

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

In this excerpt of "Midweek Meditation" on April 15, 2020, Christie* offers support in responding to some of the most challenging defense mechanisms. More on this topic to come in the April 19 regular DSD podcast.

Midweek Meditation happens live via Zoom on Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central, for as long as people are sheltering in place. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org or at the counseling/spiritual direction site passaticounseling.com

Join Christie,* Jaya, and the rest of the Oxford (MS) Practice Group in meeting Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie (15 min or half hour only available right now), OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling via teletherapy, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page..

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

Christie* offers suggestions for using this time of societal limbo to experience - more than intellectually - the Four Noble Truths of the Buddha.

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie (15 min or half hour only available right now), OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling via teletherapy, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

Midweek Meditation happens Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central, for as long as people are sheltering in place. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org or at the counseling/spiritual direction site passaticounseling.com

Join Christie,* Jaya, and the rest of the Oxford (MS) Practice Group in meeting Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page..

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

In this excerpt of "Midweek Meditation" on April 8, 2020, Christie* offers mindfulness instruction during 20 minute sit.

Midweek Meditation happens live via Zoom on Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central, for as long as people are sheltering in place. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org or at the counseling/spiritual direction site passaticounseling.com

Join Christie,* Jaya, and the rest of the Oxford (MS) Practice Group in meeting Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie (15 min or half hour only available right now), OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling via teletherapy, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page..

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

Christie* speaks on knowing deeply what certainty we have as a way to navigate our drastically increased awareness of uncertainty. 

Midweek Meditation happens Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central, for as long as people are sheltering in place. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org or at the counseling/spiritual direction site passaticounseling.com

Join Christie,* Jaya, and the rest of the Oxford (MS) Practice Group in meeting Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie (15 min or half hour only available right now), OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling via teletherapy, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page..

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

A recording of the weekly Midweek Meditation that Christie* is offering at Wednesdays at 1130a-12noon Central Time during this season of "forced retreat" for so many people. Followed by an offer for contemplative spiritual direction (half hours only, during this time of increased need for support).

Midweek Meditation happens Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central, for as long as people are sheltering in place. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org or at the counseling/spiritual direction site passaticounseling.com

Join Christie,* Jaya, and the rest of the Oxford (MS) Practice Group in meeting Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie, OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling via teletherapy, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page..

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

Christie* discusses the ways in which current challenges are an invitation or conscription into a hero's journey that can look more like the path of the Buddha than the typical "warrior hero." This episode uses principles of Dharma (The Way Things Are, or Things as They Are) as illustrated by Joseph Campbell's observations on the monomythic "hero's journey." Also referenced is the work of screenwriter Christopher Vogler and an article by screenwriter Dan Bronzite.

Midweek Meditation happens Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central, for as long as people are sheltering in place. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org

Join Christie,* Jaya, and the rest of the Oxford (MS) Practice Group in meeting Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie, OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling via teletherapy, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page..

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

Christie* describes in this trailer the intention and commitment for a new LIVE offering via Zoom on Wednesdays at 1130a - 12p Central time. Feel free to share this information with anyone who could use some extra support during this time, whether established in meditation practice or completely new to it.

Midweek Meditation will be offered at least through this time that people all over are sheltering in place, each Wednesday. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org

You are also welcome to join Christie,* Jaya, and the rest of the Oxford Practice Group in meeting Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time for as long as this particular meeting happens online. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie, OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling via teletherapy, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page..

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

Practicing compassion by allowing ourselves to let go of reactions and rest in care about suffering.

"May I learn to care about this/May I meet this with mercy/May I be present to myself/you in this/That I may be filled with compassion"

As we settle in, we may find ourselves moved to deepen concentration with the simple words, "Care, Mercy, Presence, Compassion" over and over, allowing the power of this practice to flush out unhelpful rumination and refresh us for the rest of the day.

A recording of "Midweek Meditation" offered by Christie* to a LIVE practice group via Zoom. Midweek Meditation happens Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org or at passaticounseling.com

Join Christie, Jaya, and the Oxford (MS) Practice community online Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

If you enjoying read articles on Dharma and related topics, Christie has a few of those on Medium. acharyachristinebates.medium.com

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

We can't wrap our heads around this pandemic, of course, but the teachings of the Buddha do give us a larger frame for seeing what's happening and where we do have the power to relieve suffering. This talk is excerpted from material from the 3/21 retreat "In Harmony with Reality."

You are welcome to join Christie,* Jaya, and the rest of the Oxford Practice Group in meeting online Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link at deepsouthdharma.org

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie, OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

If you have a loved one in treatment for mental health or addictive disorders, you may want to attend one or more of Christie's weekly webinars called Time to Breathe: When Your Loved One is in Treatment. Follow the link for details and registration.

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

Human life has always been fragile and reliant on interconnection, but this is a time when more people are suddenly more aware.  Christie* offers some well-tested reflections that can help us develop the capacity to live at peace with the increased awareness.

The Flowering Lotus Meditation Retreat planned for this month has been re-worked to allow for physical distancing. There are a few basic misperceptions baked into the experience of being human, but awareness and practice can allow us to see them and see through them, so that we meet this moment in the best way possible. Join our mini-retreat "In Harmony with Reality" on Saturday, March 21, 2020 from 10am - 1pm CENTRAL time. Donation-based. Join URL: https://zoom.us/j/848350545

If you have a loved one in treatment for mental health or addictive disorders, you may want to attend one or more of Christie's weekly webinars called Time to Breathe: When Your Loved One is in Treatment. Follow the link for details and registration.

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie, OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

A sutta from the Anguttara Nikāya about the process of Venerable Sona, whose attunement to the Buddha facilitated his awakening at a time of discouragement. 

Also in this episode, Christie* shares information for those needing support after last week's tornadoes in Tennessee, information for this month's residential retreat with Christie via Flowering Lotus Meditation, and news about scholarships available for Christie's retreat at Heartwood Refuge this September. You can find links to the various tornado recovery resources at Deep South Dharma's Facebook page, along with other event information. DeepSouthDharma.org has links to retreat information as well.

Registration for the March 20-22, 2020 retreat hosted by Flowering Lotus Meditation is OPEN! See details and REGISTER HERE for just $50. One of several special things about Flowering Lotus is that it offers retreats on a donation basis beyond the initial registration/commitment fee.

Registration for the September 17-20, 2020 retreat at Heartwood Refuge and Retreat Center, "Devotion to the Deathless," is also OPEN. Registration covers room and board, including private bathrooms and wonderful vegetarian/vegan meals. SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE! More about that HERE.

If you have a loved one in treatment for mental health or addictive disorders, you may want to attend one or more of Christie's weekly webinars called Time to Breathe: When Your Loved One is in Treatment. Follow the link for details and registration.

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie, OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

Christie* reflects on a discussion introduced at the Oxford Practice Group via Robert Bly's translation and commentary on Rainer Maria Rilke. The book referred to - Selected Poems of Rainer Maria Rilke - can be ordered at your independent bookstore or HERE.

For information and registration for the LIVE-then-on-demand webinar, "Time to Breathe: When Your Loved One is in Treatment" GO HERE.

Registration for the March 20-22, 2020 retreat hosted by Flowering Lotus Meditation is OPEN! See details and REGISTER HERE for just $50. One of several special things about Flowering Lotus is that it offers retreats on a donation basis beyond the initial registration/commitment fee.

Registration for the September 17-20, 2020 retreat at Heartwood Refuge and Retreat Center, "Devotion to the Deathless," is also OPEN. Registration covers room and board, including private bathrooms and wonderful vegetarian/vegan meals. More about that HERE.

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie, OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

Recorded at Deep South Dharma's Oxford Practice Group on Saturday, Feb 22nd, Christie* offers reflections on the Four Foundations of Mindfulness as discussion topic.

For information and registration for the webinar, "Time to Breathe: When Your Loved One is in Treatment" GO HERE.

Registration for the March 20-22, 2020 retreat hosted by Flowering Lotus Meditation is OPEN! See details and REGISTER HERE for just $50. One of several special things about Flowering Lotus is that it offers retreats on a donation basis beyond the initial registration/commitment fee.

Registration for the September 17-20, 2020 retreat at Heartwood Refuge and Retreat Center, "Devotion to the Deathless," is also OPEN. Registration covers room and board, including private bathrooms and wonderful vegetarian/vegan meals. More about that HERE.

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie, OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings

In the wake of Valentine's Day and last week's topic of Treating the Mind Like a Friend, Christie* has been reflecting on the kind of love that can bring out the best in us.

For information and registration for the webinar, "Time to Breathe: When Your Loved One is in Treatment" GO HERE.

Registration for the March 20-22, 2020 retreat hosted by Flowering Lotus Meditation is OPEN! See details and REGISTER HERE for just $50. One of several special things about Flowering Lotus is that it offers retreats on a donation basis beyond the initial registration/commitment fee.

Registration for the September 17-20, 2020 retreat at Heartwood Refuge and Retreat Center, "Devotion to the Deathless," is also OPEN. Registration covers room and board, including private bathrooms and wonderful vegetarian/vegan meals. More about that HERE.

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie, OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a weekly practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings.

Christie Bates* on how Dharma practice can help you shift from feeling tortured by your mind to feeling supported. 

Join Deep South Dharma on Retreat! 

Registration for the March 20-22, 2020 retreat hosted by Flowering Lotus Meditation is open! See details and REGISTER HERE for just $50. One of several special things about Flowering Lotus is that it offers retreats on a donation basis beyond the initial registration/commitment fee.

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie, OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website and/or the Passati Counseling & Direction Facebook page.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

*Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") and is co-founder and teacher of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a local practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings.

You utilize intuition every day, whether you call it that or not. Join Christie Bates* to explore the Buddhist path for making that intuition more clear and useful.

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual Contemplative Spiritual Direction with Christie, OR if you live in Tennessee and Mississippi and are in need of counseling, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website and/or the Passati Counseling & Direction Facebook page.

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

*Christie Bates is a minister (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order and co-founder of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a local practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings.

A few reflections to help us deepen our appreciation and actualize the potential of our resilient awareness, from Christie Bates.*

Resources mentioned in this episode include:

The free download of Ajahn Sucitto's booklet Clarity and Calm available here at Forest Sangha Publications, and

Sharon Salzberg's book Faith available for purchase on her website

To help you in your retreat planning in the Deep South, take a look at the retreat calendars at the following websites!

Magnolia Grove Monastery in Batesville, MS

Heartwood Refuge and Retreat Center in Hendersonville, NC

Flowering Lotus Meditation for retreats in Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

We are always happy to answer general questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual contemplative direction with Christie, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website and/or the Passati Counseling & Direction Facebook page.

*Christie Bates is a minister (ordained "Acharya Passatininna") of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order and co-founder of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a local practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast and occasional online offerings.

Christie Bates of Deep South Dharma offers some training in being good friends to ourselves when experiencing difficult feelings.

Speaking of which, if you're in the Chattanooga TN area and need some healing around the effects of trauma and/or various addictions, visit the website for the Trauma and Addiction Recovery Center mentioned in this podcast.

The upcoming retreat mentioned in this episode will take place in Starkville, MS on Friday, March 20 - Sunday, March 22, 2020. You can get more information and registration for the retreat by visiting our host for this retreat, Flowering Lotus Meditation.

*Christie Bates is a minister (Acharya Passatininna) of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order and co-founder of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a local practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast.

For information about our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

We are always happy to answer brief questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual contemplative direction with Christie, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website and/or the Passati Counseling & Direction Facebook page.

Join us via this recording of our live Zoom group of April 7, 2021 for an experience of visiting all six senses and enhanced awareness of the mind that can be aware of them.

A recording of "Midweek Meditation" offered by Christie* to a LIVE practice group via Zoom. Midweek Meditation happens Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org or at passaticounseling.com

Join Christie, Jaya, and the Oxford (MS) Practice community online Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

If you enjoying read articles on Dharma and related topics, Christie has a few of those on Medium. Medium.com/@christiebates

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

Christie Bates of Deep South Dharma studies Majjhima Nikāya Sutta 62, The Great Exhortation to Rāhula. 

When speaking to his son, the Buddha's meditation instruction - at least in this Sutta - begins and ends with non-identification and certain qualities of heart, including lovingkindness/good will. After this Sutta Study, the episode includes a guided lovingkindness practice with Christie.*

The upcoming retreat mentioned in this episode will take place at The Homestead Education Center in Starkville, MS on Friday, March 20 - Sunday, March 22, 2020. You can get more information and registration for the retreat by visiting Flowering Lotus Meditation. 

*Christie Bates is a minister (Acharya Passatininna) of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order and co-founder of Deep South Dharma. Deep South Dharma has a local practice group in Oxford MS and stays connected with our extended sangha through this podcast.

For information about our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

We are always happy to answer brief questions via the podcast or our website contact page, but if you are interested in individual contemplative direction with Christie, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website and/or the Passati Counseling & Direction Facebook page.

"Many of us are caught in a bind of feeling privileged but not powerful."  Acharya Christie Bates offers reflections on radical shifts in perception that may lead us to useful intentions as humanity faces a new decade.

Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order* and co-founder of Deep South Dharma.

For information about our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

To explore individual contemplative direction with Christie, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website and/or the Passati Counseling & Direction Facebook page.

*Ordained "Dharmacharya Passatininna" by Venerable Pannavati and Venerable Pannadipa, Co-Abbots of Heartwood Refuge, a Buddhist monastery and retreat center in Hendersonville, North Carolina.

In this holiday talk Christie supports us in cultivating joy to give us energy for addressing suffering over the long haul, through the vicissitudes or "8 worldly winds." Upcoming retreat announcement. Information about Christie's friend Jim Ramsey and WayToGo Transit.

Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order* and co-founder of Deep South Dharma.

For information about our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

To explore individual contemplative direction with Christie, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website and/or the Passati Counseling & Direction Facebook page.

*Ordained "Dharmacharya Passatininna" by Venerable Pannavati and Venerable Pannadipa, Co-Abbots of Heartwood Refuge, a Buddhist monastery and retreat center in Hendersonville, North Carolina.

This podcast returns with a new episode on Sunday, January 5, 2020.

Acharya Christie Bates on a community's experience of grief. Facing impermanence, we are inspired to seek refuge in that which does not change.

Christie Bates is a minister of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order* and co-founder of Deep South Dharma.

For information about our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

To explore individual contemplative direction with Christie, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website and/or the Passati Counseling & Direction Facebook page.

*Ordained "Dharmacharya Passatininna" by Venerable Pannavati and Venerable Pannadipa, Co-Abbots of Heartwood Refuge, a Buddhist monastery and retreat center in Hendersonville, North Carolina.

Practical advice for establishing practice. Managing "longing and dejection for the world." Mindfulness of your hula-hoop, Mindful engagement in the arts. Mindfulness of energy. Sound quality improves greatly after 1.5 minutes into the talk. Christie originally gave this talk in Nashville, TN in May 2018.

Christie Bates is a Dharmacharya of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order, ordained by Venerable Pannavati and Venerable Pannadipa.

For information about our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

To explore individual contemplative direction with Christie, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website or like the Passati Counseling & Direction Facebook page.

This episode is release early for those who may have some extra practice time over the long weekend. Includes a brief talk, a guided compassion & gratitude practice, and a simple metta song (good will, lovingkindness) that can be used anytime. 

Christie Bates is a Dharmacharya of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order, ordained by Venerable Pannavati and Venerable Pannadipa.

To register for the December 5-8, 2019 retreat "Training the Heart, Lifting Your Voice" with Acharya Christie Bates and Acharya Dr. Maureen Hall, go to the retreat page at Heartwood Refuge and Retreat Center.

For information about our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

To explore individual contemplative direction with Christie, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website or like the Passati Counseling & Direction Facebook page.

This episode is dedicated to the memory of Byron Ray Simpson. 

Remembering conversations with Byron and Venerable Pannavati's encouragement not to be timid in doing good in the world, Christie tackles a question about selflessness that arose in Wednesday's Book Study this week. 

Christie Bates is a Dharmacharya of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order, ordained by Venerable Pannavati and Venerable Pannadipa.

To register for the December 5-8, 2019 retreat "Training the Heart, Lifting Your Voice" with Acharya Christie Bates and Acharya Dr. Maureen Hall, go to the retreat page at Heartwood Refuge and Retreat Center.

For information about our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

To explore individual contemplative direction with Christie, visit the Passati Counseling & Direction website or like the Passati Counseling & Direction Facebook page.

Inspired by MN Sutta 46, this talk helps us be deliberate about choosing actions based on the results we want. 

Acharya Christie Bates is a Buddhist minister and co-founder of Deep South Dharma.

If you're interested in Christie's next weekend retreat in December, "Training the Heart, Lifting Your Voice," you can see details and register HERE

In addition to this role, Christie is available as a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Services Provider to residents of Tennessee and Mississippi via her psychotherapy practice, Passati Counseling & Direction.

Continuing last week's consideration of sīla, Christie takes a closer look at the importance and value of the 5th Precept. For those who struggle with abstinence and those who don't.

Acharya Christie Bates is a Buddhist minister and co-founder of Deep South Dharma.

In addition to this role, Christie is available as a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Services Provider to residents of Tennessee and Mississippi via her psychotherapy practice, Passati Counseling & Direction.

Sure, "wisdom and compassion are like two wings of a bird." In this episode, Christie asks, "Where's the bird? And furthermore, what is the bird?" Plus an important update on the December 2019 retreat at Heartwood Refuge. 

Acharya Christie Bates is a Buddhist minister and co-founder of Deep South Dharma. 

In addition to this role, Christie is available as a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Services Provider to residents of Tennessee and Mississippi via her psychotherapy practice, Passati Counseling & Direction.

20 minutes of resting within the boundless field of good will and feeling "right-sized" 

A recording of "Midweek Meditation" offered by Christie* to a LIVE practice group via Zoom. Midweek Meditation happens Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org or at passaticounseling.com

Join Christie, Jaya, and the Oxford (MS) Practice community online Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

If you enjoying read articles on Dharma and related topics, Christie has a few of those on Medium. Medium.com/@christiebates

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

MN Sutta 139 clears up some common misconceptions about the Buddha's "Middle Way" and gives us a way to address what is "right" and "wrong" without attacking ourselves and others. Also in this episode, announcements about Deep South Dharma's Wednesday Night Book Study - get the Zoom link at Deep South Dharma. Plus, planning for the daylong meditation retreat with Jaya and Christie on November 9th at Mindful Nashville.

Taking a look at the dubious pleasures and sometimes unintended consequences of cynicism. Understanding the deeper use of the word in Buddhist teachings. Talk given by Acharya Christie Bates at Embracing Simplicity Nashville. More information at DeepSouthDharma.org

After some logistics for those considering the November 9th daylong retreat in Nashville TN, Christie gives an overview of the 10 Parami to help us understand their beauty and importance.

Acharya Christie Bates of Deep South Dharma with a brief message in honor of World Mental Health Day

One of the motivations for the Buddha's search for freedom was that he wanted to have something of lasting value to give to his son. If you want to get to the heart of his teaching, listen to what the Buddha taught his son, Venerable Rahula.

Acharya Christie Bates shares a conversation with  kalyana mitta (spiritual friend) and Deep South Dharma co-founder Jaya Judy Seeley. We learn more about Jaya's contemplative life, as well as the decision she and her husband made a couple of years ago to retire to Batesville, MS to more fully express their commitment as lay supporters of the Magnolia Grove Monastery community. Discussion ranges from the spiritual backgrounds of these southern women, to the experience of practice in community, to the temporary but poignant waves of grief we sometimes weather as we make the transition to greater happiness and well-being on the path.

Christie shares some details about the upcoming December retreat with Erin Rae at Heartwood Refuge & Retreat Center. Then comes a talk called "Tending the Heart" first shared at Embracing Simplicity Nashville in March 2017. Lastly, a simple song you can use for training the heart toward lovingkindness in all kinds of situations.

Deep South Dharma Podcast introduced by Acharya Christie Bates, Buddhist minister ordained in the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order of Venerable Pannavati and Venerable Pannadipa. For more information, visit deepsouthdharma.org

Christie shares a brief reflection upon returning home to Oxford after seeing the Americana Music Association Awards in Nashville this week. Then a talk on equanimity in the face of the vicissitudes as "The Best of Love." Lastly, a guided meditation to support the cultivation of equanimity in the face of changing circumstances, that of our own and our loved ones.

News on the Oxford Practice Group beginning this week and a new daylong retreat planned at Mindful Nashville (TN) for November. Then "Jaya" Seeley leads us in a beautiful practice of healing for those experiences of feeling shamed, being misunderstood, or any moment of "not-enough."

Balancing compassion for self and other with equanimity/serenity.

A recording of "Midweek Meditation" offered by Christie* to a LIVE practice group via Zoom. Midweek Meditation happens Wednesdays 1130am-12noon Central. Make sure you have your Zoom account and pick up the link to Midweek Meditation at deepsouthdharma.org or at passaticounseling.com

Join Christie, Jaya, and the Oxford (MS) Practice community online Saturdays 10-11am CENTRAL time ONLINE for the time being. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

If you enjoying read articles on Dharma and related topics, Christie has a few of those on Medium. Medium.com/@christiebates

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.

Acharya Christie Bates with some good news for the local and online sangha, followed by a talk addressing the fullness of practice necessary to put an end to mental anguish.

In this first full episode of the Deep South Dharma Podcast, we begin with a fuller introduction to the vision of our co-hosts Judy Seeley (aka Auntie Jaya of the Order of Interbeing) and Christie Bates (Acharya Passatininna of the Embracing Simplicity Contemplative Order) followed by a talk on Wise Speech that Christie gave in Nashville TN upon returning from the Women's March on Washington in March 2017. 

Meeting our experiences with awareness of our essential safety in this moment, whether those feeling experiences are pleasant, unpleasant or neutral.

A recording of "Midweek Meditation" offered by Christie* to a LIVE practice group via Zoom. Midweek Meditation happened on Wednesdays during the first year or more of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Join Christie and the Oxford (MS) Practice community online Monday evening 7-8pm CENTRAL time ONLINE. After you make sure you have your free Zoom account, pick up the Zoom link specific to the Oxford Practice Group Online at deepsouthdharma.org

If you enjoying read articles on Dharma and related topics, Christie has a few of those on Medium. acharyachristinebates.medium.com

For information about upcoming retreats as it becomes available, as well as our weekly offerings and other events, visit the Deep South Dharma website and subscribe, or like the Deep South Dharma Facebook page.