Everyday Buddhism 89 - Encore of Right Effort: Joyful Balance

Everyday Buddhism 89 - Encore of Right Effort: Joyful Balance

Author: Wendy Shinyo Haylett May 1, 2023 Duration: 1:07:15

In this episode, I celebrate May Day with a re-release of Episode 13 of this podcast, Right Effort: Joyful Balance. I originally released the episode for Labor Day 2018. I thought back on it during the last couple of weeks as I struggled to be still and relax, while recovering from oral surgery during the first week of warm weather.

I was restless because, despite the beautiful smells, sounds, and feelings of the NOW of spring around me, I wasn't really there. My attention was on another time where I was accomplishing things on my mental to-do list. I narrate my recent experience trying to understand Right Effort in an intro to the longer episode from 2018.

In this chock-full episode, I review the whole Eightfold Path but focus on ways to create a joyful balance around effort. I talk about the Five Hindrances, especially one of my own battles: restlessness. I think many of you will agree. Even in meditation, we can't wait to "get at it." We are bored while we're working and agitated while relaxing.

Let my restlessness and inability to relax and enjoy the beginning of summer serve as an example for you. A time to pause and consider whether your "efforts" in life are "right"? Are they in balance? Are you trying to be perfect? Are you so consistently acting from the habit of self-perfection and achievement that you're unable to relax?

It all hinges on paying attention; about noticing. That is the hard part. Adjusting your habits isn't as hard. Listen to find ways to help in creating "joyous effort" through "The Five Daily Guidelines" offered by The Bright Dawn Center of Oneness Buddhism:

The Five Daily Guidelines: 5 Daily Guidelines


 
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You might find yourself wondering how ancient Buddhist principles could possibly fit into the rush of a modern workday or the quiet complexities of your personal relationships. Everyday Buddhism: Making Everyday Better explores exactly that, without pretense or esoteric jargon. Hosted by Wendy Shinyo Haylett, who brings her perspective as an author, teacher, and behavioral coach, each conversation feels like a practical dialogue. The ideas discussed aren't about retreating from the world, but about engaging with it more skillfully and with less personal turmoil. You'll hear how mindfulness and compassion translate into actionable strategies for dealing with stress, communication breakdowns, and the general noise of daily life. This podcast treats Buddhist teachings as a lived experience, offering reflections and methods that feel immediately applicable. Whether you're well-versed in spirituality or simply curious, Wendy’s guidance is grounded and clear, focusing on the tangible ways these age-old insights can create more space and resilience. Tune in for a thoughtful companion on the path to making each day a little more manageable and meaningful.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Everyday Buddhism: Making Everyday Better
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