The Noble Eightfold Path: Step Seven: Right Mindfulness

The Noble Eightfold Path: Step Seven: Right Mindfulness

Author: Susan Piver March 27, 2026 Duration: 31:45

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This week we explore Right Mindfulness, the seventh step of the Noble Eightfold Path. While the earlier steps shape how we see and act in the world, this step turns us inward again, toward our direct experience.


Right Mindfulness is not about self-improvement or optimization. It is a way of relating to the mind as it is. Through meditation, we begin to see that thoughts are not a problem to solve, but something to notice, release, and return from, again and again.

In this episode, I explore Right Mindfulness through three qualities that arise in practice: precision, openness, and spaciousness.


Highlights

  • Why mindfulness is not a tool for fixing yourself
  • The simple meditation formula: notice, let go, come back, begin again
  • Why thoughts are not the problem
  • Precision as the foundation of practice
  • Openness to allowing experience to be as it is
  • Spaciousness for the true nature of mind
  • The shift from identifying with thoughts to recognizing awareness itself


Music After Party

This week I share “I Won’t Cry” by Doug Sahm, a true Texas legend. 

You can also listen here.


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Fearless Creativity: A Meditation and Writing Retreat 

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Produced by Citizens of Sound

Music by: Derek O'Brien

©Open Heart Project 


In Buddhism Beyond Belief with Susan Piver, the ancient wisdom of Tibetan Buddhism meets the messy reality of modern living. Susan Piver, drawing from three decades of personal practice and her role guiding a large online meditation community, acts as a thoughtful companion rather than a distant teacher. Each conversation in this podcast moves beyond theoretical doctrine to explore how core teachings-from the four noble truths to the practice of the paramitas-can be woven into the fabric of daily experience. You’ll hear discussions that feel applicable whether you’re dealing with stress, navigating relationships, or simply seeking a more grounded sense of purpose. The tone is accessible and personal, focusing on direct experience over dogma. This approach makes the podcast a resource for anyone curious about integrating contemplative practice into areas of health, fitness, and personal spirituality, regardless of their background. It’s about finding practical clarity and an open heart amidst life’s constant changes, with Susan offering insights that feel both timeless and immediately useful.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 52

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Send us Fan MailBuddhism Beyond Belief is a podcast from Susan Piver, a 30 year student of Tibetan Buddhism and founder of the Open Heart Project, an online meditation community with close to 20000 members.With Susan as…