In this lesson, we learn how Buddhism understands the nature of suffering, as well as the nature of liberation. Lama Alan Wallace insightfully shows us the relationship between both what veils the nature of mind and what sets it free. Through clear teachings on the first noble truth, the three marks of existence, the five obscurations, and the five jhana factors, we develop a firm foundation in the practical philosophy of Buddhism to enliven our practice of shamatha on mindfulness of breathing as well as vipashyana.

Feel free to download and refer to the following notes, which Alan Wallace will cite and offer commentary on, throughout the course.

In this video, Alan Wallace offers context for the practice of mindfulness of breathing, explaining the relationship between shamatha, and the practice of vipashyana. After watching, please practice along with guided meditation below.

In this video, Alan Wallace discusses core terminology relevant to practice on the four applications of mindfulness, including the Buddhist meaning of term mindfulness. Alan also explains the essential role of ethics in the development of samadhi.

In this video, Alan Wallace discusses the four applications of mindfulness as a core teaching of the Buddha, and explains how these practices relate to the notion of path, or marga. Alan introduces us to the practice of shamatha as the foundational platform for vipashyana, and guides us through the application of mindfulness on the body.

In this audio meditation, Alan Wallace guides us  through settling into awareness by witnessing the somatic field. Please find a comfortable position, and practice along with the guided meditation.

In this selection from Tibetan Buddhism from the Ground Up, Alan Wallace offers an overview on the theory and practice of the four applications of mindfulness.

In this video Alan Wallace overs us an overview on the four applications of mindfulness.

In this first lesson, Lama Alan Wallace introduces the significance of the four applications of mindfulness, across Buddhist traditions. We learn the depth behind core terminology, such as what is meant by samadhi, introspection, insight, and even the term ‘mindfulness’ itself. Lama Alan provides direct and practical background that orients the journey of the course, introducing the texts, traditions, and foundational practices to develop a calm and stable mind, ready for the cultivation of vipashyana, or insight.