Mara: Working with Difficulty in the Mind

Mara: Working with Difficulty in the Mind

Author: Kate Spina April 14, 2021 Duration: 11:11

Continuing with the story of the birth of Buddhism, I share Siddhartha's battle with Mara, and how understanding that battle, and understanding the strategies Siddhartha used, can help us to work with difficult aspects in the mind. Some of the mind states I discuss include greed, the critical mind, and self doubt.

If you want further reading on Mara here is an essay from Access to Insight and and entry from The New World Encyclopedia


Each week, Toward Light: Practical Buddhism for the Modern World gently bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary living. Guided by Kate Spina, who is trained in the Theravada lineage, these conversations and reflections focus on early Buddhist teachings, translating their core principles into tangible practices for today's unique challenges. This isn't about abstract philosophy; it's about finding a grounded sense of clarity, resilience, and compassion amid the noise of daily life. You'll hear practical guidance that intersects naturally with themes of mental fitness, personal growth, and holistic well-being, all framed within a accessible spiritual context. Kate's approach demystifies these timeless ideas, making them relevant whether you're navigating stress, seeking deeper purpose, or simply curious about a more mindful existence. The Toward Light podcast serves as a thoughtful companion for anyone looking to integrate sustainable, peaceful habits into their modern routine. By focusing on direct applications, the show honors the tradition of making these teachings genuinely useful, supporting listeners in cultivating a steadier, more intentional life one step at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 121

Toward Light: Practical Buddhism for the Modern World
Podcast Episodes
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Wise Concentration [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Duration: 12:28
Wise Mindfulness is the 7th path factor, and it's also a study to itself. Some resources if you're interested in exploring mindfulness: Mindfulness in Plain English by Bhante Gunaratana. Satipatthana Meditation: A Practi…