European Buddha – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode we connected with Anna Karolina Brychcy, board member of the German Buddhist Union (DBU). We spoke about her first experience of connectivity and how important it is to get into contact with yourself as a foundation to experience connectivity with others - eventually leading us to core teachings of Buddhadharma. Tune in to find out what key role Buddhism can play in todays society contemplating the Illusion of Separation.

https://buddhismus-deutschland.de

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Buddha Drops - Youtube Format by the DBU

EBU Podcast Summer Series 

Join us and be part of our Summer Series. In this segment, we delve into five frequently asked questions about Buddhism, featuring here a conversation with Tsunma Jinpa - nun in the Drikung Kagyu Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism.

The 5 FAQ about Buddhism: 

• Why meditate? 
• What did the Buddha realize? 
• What happens after we die? 
• What is one of the best teachings you have received? 
• How can Buddhist teachings support individuals in facing the challenges of modern life? 

Please consider making a donation to support the DBU’s mission. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference. Together, we can help preserve and grow the Buddhist tradition in Germany. Donate here

In this episode, we sit down with Gabriela Frey and Dr. Thea Mohr to delve into the latest developments in the Buddhist women's movement and the Council of Europe.

We spoke about the crucial role Sakyadhita plays as a member of the European Buddhist Union (EBU). Our conversation explores the intricacies of the EBU's representation in the Council of Europe, with Gabriela Frey serving as a key figure in the Conference for International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs).

What did we learn from our discussion? The importance of dialogue! The EBU's presence in the Council of Europe, represented by Gabriela Frey as the EBU's representative and its involvement with the Committee for Interreligious and Interconvictional Dialogue highlight the significance of dialogue in their work. Our guests provide insights into how their efforts are relevant to civil society, shedding light on the impact of Buddhism in shaping interfaith and interconvictional discussions.

The conclusion? In this precious world, gender balance and religious balance are greatly needed — in order to live in a more harmonious way together! Enjoy this episode!

For more information visit our website: https://www.europeanbuddhistunion.org/

Join us as we reflect on the past year, exploring moments of gratitude that shaped our journey. Embracing the spirit of fearlessness, we delve into the highlights and lessons learned.

As we celebrate the power of gratitude, we extend an invitation to our listeners to support the European Buddhist Union. Your donations contribute to fostering unity, understanding, and the dissemination of Buddhist values across Europe. Visit us here to make a difference! A big thank you to all of you!

In this episode, we embark on a spiritual odyssey with Carla Ott, a young female Buddhist practitioner connecting with us from India. Carla joins us to share her insights on various aspects of Buddhism, delving into her experiences growing up in a Buddhist environment and exploring the nonconceptual memories that shaped her spiritual journey from a young age. We spoke about the impact of „Interconnected,“ a book by Karmapa Orgyen Trinley Dorje and the great potential inherent in each of us as human beings.

Carla recently completed a Master degree in Buddhist Studies at the Rangjung Yeshe Institute in Nepal and now lives in France, where she is part of the environmental committee of Lerab Ling, a temple and retreat centre of the Tibetan Buddhist Nyingma tradition.

https://www.lerabling.org/lang-en/

Recommended readings:

• Interconnected: Embracing Life in Our Global Society - Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje

• The Words of My Perfect Teacher: A Complete Translation of a Classic Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism - Patrul Rinpoche

• Not for Happiness: A Guide to the So-Called Preliminary Practices - Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse

Join us for an ECO-Dharma Episode as we delve into the pressing issue of sustainability in our modern world. In the serene surroundings of the Maison Notre Dame Du Chant D’Oiseau, a historic monastery nestled in the heart of Brussels, we sat down during the AGM breaks to explore the theme of sustainability.

Our guest for this conversation is Gunaketu, an ordained member into the Triratna Buddhist Order and a speaker at the Eco-Dharma Workshops. Gunaketu generously shared his insights on what it means to lead a sustainable life, shedding light on the role Buddhists can play in this endeavor and his personal journey towards maintaining a positive outlook.

Throughout our discussion, Gunaketu underscores that sustainability and justice have emerged as pivotal movements in recent decades. These movements serve as guiding beacons, offering a glimpse of what a new, sustainable society might resemble. In his capacity as a passionate advocate for sustainability among Buddhists in Norway, Gunaketu is also a member of the Eco-Dharma Network, an initiative led by the EBU.

Tune in and be with us as we talk about how to cultivate a more sustainable and harmonious world, one mindful step at a time.

Check out the EBU Eco-Dharma Network & our Shownotes!

Recommended reading & references

• https://www.positive.news
• Ecodharma: Buddhist Teachings for the Ecological Crisis by David Loy, 2019.
• Active Hope: How to Face the Mess We’re in with Unexpected Resilience and Creative Power by Joanna Macy and Chris Johnstone
• Article by Kritee (Dharma name Kanko): Movement builders! Deal with trauma to be found here

In this special episode, we'll delve into the heart of the EBU's vibrant community, offering you an exclusive glimpse into the enlightening Eco-Dharma Workshop, thoughtfully introduced by Jake Lyne. Listen to insights about the intersection of spirituality and ecological consciousness, shedding light on profound connections that can help heal our planet.

We also got a special interview lined up for you. Emilia and Martin took a walk in the park with the newly elected president of the EBU, Stefano Bettera. During their conversation, they explore visions for the future, discussing aspirations and what makes this work so unique.

Let´s create European Buddhism! A message by Stefano Bettera

Join us in this enlightening episode of the "European Buddha Podcast" as we welcome our special guest, Dario Girolami, to discuss the emerging field of Buddhist Chaplaincy in the West. We explore how the roots of Buddhist chaplaincy trace back to Buddha himself, and how it serves to address various forms of suffering.

During our conversation, we delved into the profound impact of Dharma-based companioned service, extending compassion to both Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike in places of suffering such as hospitals, prisons, and hospices. We discovered intriguing similarities between the environment of a prison cell and the contemplative life of monasticism!

Dario also shed light on the importance of acknowledging compassion fatigue while recognizing the rewarding aspects of engaging in Buddhist chaplaincy.

Towards the end of the episode, we took an outlook on the evolving training in Buddhist Chaplaincy promoted by the EBU.

Get informed:

https://europeanbuddhistunion.org/chaplaincy-network

In this episode of the "European Buddha Podcast," we meet Ari-Pekka, an Organizational Psychologist and Author from Finland. He is part of the Bodhidharma association - member among many other traditions within the EBU. Drawing from his extensive experience working with organizations and his understanding of contemplative practices, Ari-Pekka invites our listeners to explore the laboratory of the mind. Ari-Pekka, also called A-P, emphasizes that social relationships are not separate from the mind; they are intricately intertwined.

Combining principles from psychology and contemplative traditions, Ari-Pekka provides practical guidance for enhancing our capacity to navigate life. Tune in to our podcast to unlock valuable insights, tools for personal growth, and indulge in a delightful practice exercise that promises moments of joy.

In this episode, we are honored to have Deny Rinpoche join us. He is a regular speaker of the EBU Contemplative Science Network. We shed light on the importance of precise language usage, particularly when exploring concepts such as mindfulness and awareness, which can vary in interpretation across different languages. Our discussion delves into the challenges of translating experiential knowledge into words and the significance of establishing a meaningful connection between language and personal experience. In the spirit of experiential learning, we engage in a practice exercise guided by Deny Rinpoche. This allows us to personally connect with the teachings and reflect on their relevance in our lives. We also delve into the transformative power of the Dharma, exploring how its infusion into society can bring about profound changes. Tune in to this enlightening episode as we delve into the realms of contemplative science and the transformative potential of the Dharma in society.

• Recommended reading: Openness, Clarity, Sensitivity - Rigdzin Shikpo

• Last meeting of the Contemplative Science Network on Youtube