In today’s fast-paced world, where we face conflicts, climate emergencies, and a growing need for mental health education, it is increasingly important to adopt methods that enhance our well-being and that of others. Ancient mind training and emotional intelligence techniques from the secular aspects of Buddhist mind science have been shown to benefit people’s lives significantly. Mindfulness and introspection serve as the foundation for positive transformation. Mindfulness keeps us focused and remembers our constructive intentions, while introspection helps our mind to maintain attention.
By moving beyond mindfulness and incorporating meditation techniques grounded in an accurate understanding of reality and compassion, we can discover a more sustainable form of happiness. This approach involves comprehending our emotions, perceiving reality accurately, and taking ethical responsibility for our actions.
Recognizing that disturbing emotions stem from a misunderstanding of reality helps us grasp the importance of understanding how things truly are. As we navigate life’s challenges and difficulties, while also focusing on others who are experiencing similar suffering, we cultivate compassion. Nurturing these mental attitudes increases our awareness of how to interact with others, enhances our emotional intelligence, and helps us develop a morality that benefits both ourselves and those around us.
This course is part of the Oxford University Summer School for Adults (OUSSA) programme.