Episode 227 - Always Rely on a Happy Mind Alone

Episode 227 - Always Rely on a Happy Mind Alone

Author: JoAnn Fox: Buddhist Teacher April 7, 2026 Duration: 39:44

Always rely on a happy mind alone. This Buddhist slogan for training the mind isn't about "positive thinking" or just being happy. A "happy mind" refers to a mind that is peaceful and free from delusions, like like anger, jealousy, pride or attachment. 

 

When a delusion like anger is operating in the mind, we no longer see clearly. A delusion is like a warped mirror: everything we see in this mirror is distorted. For example, when we're hurt we might get angry at someone we love. Anger then makes us see that person as the cause of our pain, a threat, so that we speak and act in regrettable ways. 

 

'Always rely on a happy mind alone' reminds us that when our mind isn't peaceful, it can't be trusted. The thoughts arising can't be trusted. Perhaps we need a timeout, a break, or a nap!

 

"When another person makes you suffer, 

it is because he suffers deeply within himself, and his suffering is spilling over. 

He does not need punishment; he needs help. 

That's the message he is sending." 

– Thich Nhat Hanh

 

"Always rely on a happy mind alone."--Geshe Chekawa

To learn more about the new Wednesday evening drop-in classes on Zoom with JoAnn Fox called 'Being Peace,' visit https://buddhismforeveryone.com/meditation-classes-for-peace

Find us at the links below: 

Our Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/BuddhismForEveryone

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Buddhismforeveryone

Private Facebook Group:: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sanghatalk/

Website: Buddhismforeveryone.com

Instagram: @buddhism4everyone

X: @Joannfox77

TikTok: @buddhism4everyone

YouTube: @Buddhism4Everyone

To learn about Life Coaching with JoAnn Fox visit www.BuddhismforEveryone.com or email JoAnn Fox at joann@buddhismforeveryone.com


You'll find Buddhism for Everyone with JoAnn Fox to be a conversation that feels both timeless and immediately useful. JoAnn Fox, a Buddhist teacher with over two decades of experience, guides these discussions with a genuine warmth and a welcome touch of humor, making profound ideas feel accessible. This isn't about abstract philosophy; it's about the tangible ways these ancient practices can reshape our modern days. Each episode, released every other week, delves into practical applications. You might explore how to cultivate patience during a frustrating commute, find a deeper sense of contentment amidst daily routines, or develop the compassionate resilience the world needs. The podcast serves as a gentle, consistent reminder that spiritual growth isn't separate from ordinary life-it's woven right into it. JoAnn's approach demystifies meditation and mindfulness, framing them as tools for anyone seeking more peace or clarity. Whether you're completely new to these concepts or looking to deepen an existing practice, the conversations meet you where you are, offering insights that encourage reflection and, most importantly, action in your own life.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 230

Buddhism for Everyone with JoAnn Fox
Podcast Episodes
Episode 196 - Making mindful choices [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:06
This episode explores how to make mindful choices that lead to happiness and well-being in the future. We can learn how to distinguish between virtuous actions and nonvirtuous actions Virtuous actions are those that lead…
Episode 195 - Feel before you act [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:40
In this episode we explore one of the core teachings of the Buddha—the Five Aggregates and their connection to our problems and suffering. The Buddha taught that life is pervaded by dukkha, which means dissatisfaction or…
Episode 194 - Enjoying without attachment [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:17
Joy and pleasures are woven into the fabric of our lives. The teachings of Buddha invite us to dance with moments of delight without the chains of attachment. In this episode, we explore how to savor the pleasures of lif…
Episode 193: Compassion as antidote to anger [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:17
For the average person, Moments of anger are inevitable. They can flare up in response to various triggers, from personal frustrations to global injustices. However, according to the Buddha's teachings, there is a powerf…
Episode 192 - Solving Anger with Dharma [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:40
In this episode, we delve into a universal human experience: anger. But fear not! We're not just exploring the problem; we're diving into solutions. Get ready for an enlightening journey as we uncover practical strategie…
Important Announcement [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:32
Virtual Classes with JoAnn Fox start this Saturday, March 2nd! You can enroll any time! What: An ongoing study program to practice the entire path of Buddhism. Join us at any point! When: Saturdays 10 am EST Why: People…
Episode 191 - Got problems? Buddha has solutions. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:30
Renunciation is the determination to be free from our own cycle of suffering and dissatisfaction. Renunciation is a state of mind, like patience, compassion, or contentment. Much like these virtuous states of mind, devel…
Episode 190 - Renunciation: This is the way [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:52
In today's episode, we explore the profound concept of renunciation in Buddhism. True renunciation isn't about abandoning pleasure but transforming our relationship with it. Join us as we unravel the complexities of renu…
Episode 189 - Transforming the Three Poisons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:03
In this episode, we explore the antidotes to the three poisons — greed, anger, and ignorance. The three poisons are the fundamental sources of suffering. Join us to discover how generosity counters greed, loving-kindness…
Episode 188 - Practicing Impermanence [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:45
Buddha's teachings on impermanence empower practitioners to develop a mindset far less prone to suffering, anxiety, and worry. By embracing the ever-changing nature of existence, we create a wise and resilient approach t…