The Daily Dharma

In this episode, we highlight the pitfalls of chasing our pride above all else and why it's important to prioritize gratitude instead.

In this episode, we reflect on how we can sometimes try to find the answer to our deepest questions, in all the wrong places, only to find out that they were always available to us, from within.

In this episode, we talk about feeling the weight of the world on our shoulders, and how we can refocus our energy in order to return to a more balanced approach to living life.

In this episode, we talk about the difficulties and challenges when it comes to staying focused on our spiritual path.

In this episode, we reflect on how we can learn to become more one with life.

In this episode, we talk about how we can learn to better face the obstacles we encounter in life.

In this episode, we talk about why self-reflection is hard and how we can practice self-reflection in a more compassionate and mindful way.

In this episode, we talk about how we can enable ourselves to experience a spiritual revival, especially when things get hard.

In this episode, we talk about the key elements of tranquility and how to build them in our lives.

In this episode, we talk about how we can endure failure throughout our lives.

Change may come to our lives in unexpected ways. In this episode, we reflect on change and how we can better adapt to it.

In this episode, we reflect on what it means to see beyond the dark clouds of our lives...and how we can stay open to exploring multiple perspectives on each situation.

If we only focus on the good or the bad, we can't stay balanced. In this episode, we talk about how we can find the balance in our lives, and as a result, develop a sense of inner peace.

Sometimes, we have to let things have their time. In this episode, we talk about what it means to be open to the possibility of change, right from the start.

In this episode, we talk about what it means to observe the cycles of giving and receiving in our lives and how it can lead to greater wisdom and inner acceptance.

In this week's episode, we talk about the nature of change - how it happens, why we fight it and what we can do to accept it on a deeper level.

In this episode, we talk about what we can do when we are surrounded by uncertainty.

In this episode, we talk about transience and the valuable lesson it teaches about appreciating the present moment.

Being hopeful in life can often feel impossible. In this episode, we talk about how hope is often seen in society and how we can keep our own sense of radical hope, alive and well.

In this episode, we talk about how we can come to accept the difficult nature of the world around us.

In this episode, we talk about why it's important to simply do things rather than just observing.

How do we protect our sense of hope in an often cold and unforgiving world? 

In this episode, we talk about how we can compassionately detach from the things in our lives that are weighing on our minds.

How can we share our joy in a highly critical and judgmental world? Let's reflect.

In this episode, we talk about why it's difficult when the people we love don't change for the better, and what we can do in this situation.

In this episode, we talk about how running away from fear can only lead us so far. Instead, we can train ourselves to observe our fears with a compassionate lens.

In this episode, we talk about how focusing on our limitations can feel suffocating and what we can do to release this way of thinking.

In this episode, we talk about how we can better understand our anger and manage it to walk a more compassionate and positive path.

In this episode, we reflect on how we can practice letting go of deep disappointment and failure.

In this episode, we talk about how we can build a path towards greater compassion.

In this episode, we talk about how we can find inner peace, wherever we are, whenever we need to.

In this episode, we explore how we perceive the lives of others in contrast to our own, and why it's important to appreciate our own lives as well as the merits of others.

In this episode, we explore the nature of true contentment and what it truly means to be content in life.

In this episode, we talk about the stream of life, and how we can deal with life's difficult currents.

In this episode, we talk about having respect for all forms of life and why we should always choose compassion over fear.

In this episode, we talk about how we can discover the true nature of things.

In this episode, we talk about how we can find our place of inner peace amidst the great chaos of life.

In this episode, we talk about the different feelings and motivations within us and how we need to seek balance in order to live a fulfilling life.

In this episode, we talk about the value of cultivating inner validation and becoming a compassionate observer of our own lives.

In this episode, we talk about what loneliness really is and how we can begin to heal it.

In this episode, we reflect on why breath is an important aspect of spiritual and meditative practice in Buddhism.

In this new year, we reflect on a story that shares insights on the passage of time, and how we are both remain the same but also not the same, throughout the course of our lives.

In this episode, we talk about the nature of people and how to honor our own approach to life in the face of other people's anger and disappointment.

In this episode, we talk about how we can't rush time and why it's important to exercise patience to let things proceed at their own pace.

In this episode, we talk about the benefits of idleness and why we don't need to be productive 24/7.

In this episode, we reflect on how the power of familiarity guides human interaction and how it effects us as people.

In this episode, we talk about how we can shift our perspective on our flaws to live deeper, fuller lives.

In this episode, we talk about stubborn interpersonal conflicts - what they really are and what we can do about them.

In this episode, we talk about how we can deal with feelings of intense anger towards the people in our lives and what we can do to resolve conflicts more peacefully.

In this episode, we talk about how easy it is to be lost in thought and how we can ground ourselves when this happens.

In this episode, we explore how the mind is often an echo chamber for our deepest emotions and thoughts, and how being aware of this can help us stay grounded.

In this episode, we talk about how we can survive tough times by taking the long view on life.

In this episode, we explore the reoccurring theme of "get on and go" in Buddhist philosophy and our greater lives.

In this episode, we explore the dual nature of our lives through a Chinese folktale about a young woman named Senjo.

In this episode, we reflect on the innate discomfort of being human and how we can deconstruct it towards feeling more connected and centered.

In this episode, we reflect on how we carry our spiritual realizations wherever we go, no matter what.

In this episode, we reflect upon the phrase "let it be" and how we can apply it in our daily lives.

In this episode, we reflect on what it's like to be wrapped up in our drive to survive, instead of the details of our own life.

This episode is about how enlightenment is possible in every circumstance, no matter how dark life may become.

In this episode, we talk about learning to observe our minds and realize its nature as an endless gatherer of thoughts, emotions and expectations. 

Giving can come in many forms. In this episode, we explore how we can give deeper with formless, non-material giving.

In this episode, we talk about what makes our minds heavy and the steps we can take to feel lighter and more free.

In this episode, we talk about the path to developing a deeper understanding of life.

In this episode, we talk about how preserving the right frame of mind can completely transform how we see every situation and positively re-write the story of our lives.

In this episode, we talk about the power of approaching life's difficulties with calm and courageousness.

In this episode, we talk about how performing good deeds comes about by setting compassionate intentions every day and having the right kind of support.

In this episode, we talk about why we should learn to become our own spiritual refuge, no matter where we are.

In this episode, we talk about the difference between personal reality and ultimate reality, and how gaining perspective on ultimate reality can reduce our own personal suffering.

In this episode, we talk about how a single thought can change your day, your year and even your whole life and that of those around you.

Where will we find our path? In this episode, we talk about how we can experience awakening today, right now, where we are, instead of a distant future in a different place.

What happens when life hits you hard and you're in a dark hole? That's when it's time to climb upwards. In this episode, we talk about a Dharma story on how and why this happens and what to do about it.

What does it mean to have a love that spans many lifetimes? We read a Zen story that explores what unconditional love truly is, in this life and the next.

In this episode, we talk about a story of a nun who cooks the meals at her monastery and how making red bean porridge lead to greater spiritual insights on what it means to return to your foundation. 

Can you imagine a version of yourself without the pain? Sometimes, transcending the pain comes from transforming it, within ourselves.

Like a lantern in the darkness, right understanding, when absorbed and appreciated, can help one find their way.

In this episode, we talk about two Zen Buddhist stories that explore the theme of looking deeper, beyond the surface, of a situation or state. 

In this light-hearted episode, we usher in a little light into our lives with two humorous Zen stories.

In this episode, we explore how humility is a beautiful path towards wisdom. Through humility, we can see our truth and, discover a better way to live.

Why is silence such an important part of Zen Buddhism? We read two stories that explore the theme of silence and its role in leading a spiritual life.

No matter how masterful we become, life always finds a way to surprise us and teach us something new. In this episode, we unravel two Zen Buddhist stories about being in unfamiliar territory and how to process our discomfort.

In this episode, we go through two Zen Buddhist stories that showcase how our perspectives can drastically change and evolve with time.

In this episode, we look at two stories that highlight the importance of patiently and carefully assessing the situation before we respond to it.

In this episode, we look at Buddhist stories that explore the two different yet equally important sides of being Zen.

In this episode, we talk about a heartfelt letter where a young woman expresses her distress at having nothing in her life and the Buddhist approach to it.

Change is always possible. In this episode, we talk about how compassion shaped the course of someone's life and how we can apply the same principles to our own.

In this episode, we read a Zen Buddhist story called "Publishing the Sutras" on the importance of recognizing and following the unexpected teachings of life.

In this episode, we talk about how we can go about uncomplicating our lives by reflecting on a Zen Buddhist story by Nyogen Senzaki, called "The First Principle".

In this episode, we go over a Zen Buddhist story about overfilling a cup of tea. 

In life, we are often given multiple roles to play, in both our personal and professional life. But what is the one job that matters the most? Listen in to learn more.

In this episode, we talk about why judgement is first and foremost, burdensome to ourselves, and how we can practice non-judgement instead.

In this episode we walk through two Buddhist parables on how the past can be a burden to our present and why it's important to learn to let go.

What kind of hunger are you facing today and how can you address it? In this episode, we talk about different types of hunger and why we need to heal it within ourselves to achieve deeper spiritual growth.

In this episode, we talk about the Buddhist Tibetan Prayer and how it can help us come to terms with our death and those of loved ones.

Are we changing against ourselves or in alignment with who we are? In this episode, we look at the Buddhist take on New Year's resolutions through a delightful story from Sensei Alex Kakuyo.

No matter the moment, it will pass. 

The holidays are not a happy time for many. It can often bring up complex thoughts and feelings that are difficult to deal with. In this episode, we talk about how mindfulness can make the holiday blues more manageable and less stressful.

In this episode, we talk about setting new "day" resolutions instead of new years resolutions. In other words - how to focus on doing what can be done instead of achieving milestones that may or may not happen.

In this episode, we talk about how we can be mindful of the different stressors that may arise during this holiday season and how we can proactively face them.

In this episode, we explore what Enlightenment truly is and how it relates to our every day practice.

What is the agitated mind and why do we need to be aware of it? In this episode, we talk about the danger of neglecting the agitated mind and how we can redirect it in a positive way.

In this episode, we learn why being born as a human being is so rare and powerful and how we can truly appreciate our circumstances compared to other life forms.

In this episode we talk about what the "default" state of the mind is and what we can do to transition into a more meditative and relaxed state.

In this episode, we take inspiration from our furry friends on how to disconnect from our everyday thoughts and appreciate the beauty of the moment.

It's not just your body that needs guarding - it's your spirit. In this episode, we talk about the importance of protecting your spirit and how you can do this in your every day life.

The body can often be a source of pain and guilt. In this episode, we talk about how to process past, present and future pain around our bodies and choose healing.

For many of us, anger is a conditioned response to situations where things don't go to plan. In this episode, we explore how we can better analyze and understand our anger in the moment and release it, peacefully.

What is the ultimate refuge and how can we get there? In this episode, we talk about the Buddha's words on loving kindness in the Karaniya Metta Sutta and how it discusses the most powerful form of spiritual protection we can achieve.

It can be so difficult to decide how to end different things in our lives. In this episode, we talk about the challenges of this process and how to end things with compassion for ourselves and everyone involved. 

In this episode, we reflect on how desire and the pressure to desire things in life can negatively impact us and why it can be a deep relief to replace it with contentment and satisfaction instead.

Do you often feel guilty that you cannot directly help or support those who are suffering? In this episode, we talk about this emotion, what it indicates and why being empathetic towards others can be intrinsically empowering.

Eat. Sleep. Repeat. Being focused on our daily lives can make us feel like we're surrounded by a mental haze. We're so tired that all we can do is see three feet in front of us. In this episode, we talk about "Scottish Mists", a story from Ajahn Brahm's book "Don't Worry Be Grumpy" on how we can find a sense of direction when feeling lost in the mist of life.

How do we live in a world full of injustice without burning ourselves out? In this episode, we explore the challenge of needing to take care of ourselves as well as the communities around us and how to approach this situation with compassion towards ourselves.

Is our suffering 100% our own? In this episode, we explore how the blueprint given to us may very well be extending samsara and how we can instead, choose to opt-out, bit by bit.

Pain is more than just a sensation we want to avoid - it's a wake-up call, a sign of spiritual awakening. In this episode, we explore passages from Pema Chodron's book, "Comfortable with Uncertainty: 108 Teachings on Cultivating Forgiveness & Compassion" on what is the love that doesn't die and why it's the answer in the face of uncertainty and impermanence.

In this episode, we hear about a Buddhist folk tale around a little bird who couldn't be burnt in a raging forest fire, and the parallels it offers on how to deal with a world that feels like it's constantly in decline. How do we move forward without being consumed by dread? 

In this episode, we talk about the three spheres of influence (you, your personal network and beyond) and why we always need to start with ourselves when striving to be positive change makers in the world.

How do we generate light, hope and compassion within when we feel the world is falling apart around us? In this episode, we reflect on the Roe vs Wade overruling and how we can do our best to process our complex emotions, cultivate compassion and be the change the communities around us need.

In this episode, we talk about the deeper belief that leads to burnout in our educational, professional and social spheres and how we can dismantle it in order to experience joy and abundance instead.

When trying to be a good spiritual person, what is the right path forward? In this episode, we talk about the importance of asking yourself big questions and challenging yourself to create the right "recipe" for your own spiritual life.

In the wake of the Uvalde shootings, I searched for a Buddhist response to deeply saddening and upsetting tragedy. In this episode, we reflect upon the wisdom in Bikkhuni Ayya Dhammadipa's discussion of this question and why creating connection and compassion in society is the solution. You can also find a link to her video in our Linktree, found in the bio of our Instagram, @the.daily.dharma

Everyone has a "should-have" talk track in their minds. In this episode, we explore what they are and how we can slowly, with time and effort, be free of them.

Why is stigmatization so harmful and what is the value of creating space in your day to do "nothing"? Listen in and let's explore together.

Right understanding is all about grasping the big picture, the spiritual long-game of your life.

What's Right Effort all about? We discuss another rung of the Eight-Fold Path in this episode.

In this episode, we talk about Right Thought, a facet of the Noble Eight-Fold Path, and how it guides us towards joy.

What's standing in the way of our view, spiritually? In this episode, we navigate the myriad of reasons why our view of life can be crowded and how to unclutter it so we can feel happier.

Difficult people are everywhere. Here's a quick three step approach to help deal with them compassionately, accompanied by a great story from Ajahn Brahm.

What is right speech? As a facet of the Eight-Fold Path, it sometimes comes across as daunting and difficult to follow. In this episode, we dissect what right speech really means and how we can use words as a tool to create joy and preserve peace for ourselves and others.

Blaming is so ingrained in our culture, it feels natural to do so. But what does blame really accomplish? Whether it's towards yourself or others, blame is an action that festers negativity. In this episode, we talk about why blame is so easy to fall into and how to move away from this way of thinking.

What is happiness and how do we achieve it? In this episode, we take inspiration from a passage in the Dhammapada to help define the process by which we can generate happiness.

In this episode, we talk about how overwhelming tragedy can be and how to approach it in a way that will lead to greater wisdom and compassion.

Where can we find daily joy? Is joy even something we can truly access every day? In this episode, we talk about where we can find joy and how to identify mechanisms to unlock joy within our lives.

In this episode, we talk about how we can find a personal process to let go of our negative memories, emotions and thoughts. We also discuss why it's important to grow aware of all the expectations placed on us and learn to let go of them on a regular basis, to feel more calm, energized and happy in our lives.

What is kindfulness? We explore why mindfulness is not enough and why we need to mix in kindness to create kindfulness.

Being mindful of what influences us is an important part of our spiritual journey. All of us are influenced by what we see, hear and interact with. As a result, we can use influences as well as positive habits as a tool to help us move in the right direction.

In this episode, we talk about how every emotion has a physical counterpart, and how this knowledge can help us counteract and treat our anxiety with compassion.

Positivity is not a bad thing. But positivity no matter what can turn toxic.

In today's episode, we talk about how to forgive ourselves in order to achieve true growth.

Hoping everyone is having a safe and warm new year. In this episode, we talk about how our survival instinct can sometimes slow down our spiritual journey.

In this episode, we talk about a great story on how to deal with situations where there's nowhere to run and no solution in sight. 

In this episode, we talk about a passage in the Devadaha Sutta, which talks about how we create our reality through a mixture of both karma and our present actions. As a result, we are fully able to break the cycles that perpetually arise in our lives with this understanding in mind.

For today's episode, we'll visit a wonderful story from Ajahn Brahm, entitled "The Origin of Stress".

In this episode, we talk about what Buddhist philosophy considers the most valuable thing in our lives and why.

There is a lot of hate out there in the world. It's easy to lose ourselves in it. In this episode, we talk about how to re-focus ourselves on what matters and continue growing spiritually, despite living in a complicated and conflict-ridden world. 

In this episode, I talk about a fun little story about a person who's nearing their end of life and what happened when they asked their four best friends to come with them. It's a creative reminder to re-examine our priorities in life and make sure we're focusing on what matters.

Pain is an intensely personal spiritual experience.

There's so much to be fearful of, according to the world around us. How do we face this fear and find safety? Listen to learn more.

Getting stressed is normal and part of your spiritual journey - listen in to discover why.

Better than a thousand words that don't bring peace, is one word that does. We discuss how to apply this framework to every day life and the importance of reminding ourselves that at the end of the day, self-peace is the goal. 

Wisdom is often referred to something we have. However, Buddhist philosophy argues otherwise - rather, that wisdom is a practice that you actively engage in every day. Follow us on Instagram @the.daily.dharma for cool new quotes!

Why is the temporary nature of life so terrifying? In this episode, I take a real-time example of a time I became incredibly bitter and unhappy and how I applied Buddhist philosophy to find my way to peace.

When another person reacts poorly, I always tend to take responsibility for it. In this episode, we discuss why we shouldn't own and be attached to the emotions of others and what we should do instead.

In this week's episode, we talk about the difficulty of dealing with the pain and suffering of those we love and how Buddhist philosophy teaches us to approach this. To get some cool Buddhist quotes in your Instagram feed, please follow us @the.daily.dharma! 

The Buddhist practice of compassion begins with recognizing your own personhood and being compassionate to yourself. Here's why it's difficult and how to move towards it, step by step.

Today's episode centers on the true nature of failure and a neat little story from Ajahn Brahm about a little boy who couldn't memorize. Follow us on Instagram @the.daily.dharma for Buddhist quotes!

In this week's episode, we talk about going through extremes and why it's part of your spiritual journey. 

In this episode, we talk about the nature of life - impermanence and what our own sense of suffering has to do with it.

In Buddhism, guilt is an emotion that serves no purpose. It intensifies your suffering instead of alleviating it. So go ahead and forgive yourself - or take small steps every day to reach forgiveness. 

What is a Bodhisattva? In this episode, we talk about the translation of the world, who Bodhisattvas truly are and the lessons we can draw from their stories. 

In this episode, we cover the meaning behind the introductory Buddhist stanza, "Namo Tassa" and the importance and respect given to one's skepticism when starting out in Buddhism. We especially highlight the difference between reverence and worship and how practicing Buddhism is the core of all Buddhist philosophy, rather than faith. 

Why do so many spiritual "gurus" push us to give "big"? In this episode, we talk about giving from the Buddhist lens and why it's more important than ever to simply give "small". 

The pandemic has left us all feeling all sorts of wrong. In this episode. we talk about why it's okay to simply feel what you're feeling and allow yourself to be grumpy. 

Do you find yourself pushing harder and harder in your spiritual path, without yielding results? In this episode, we talk about the cons of self-punishment and why Buddhist philosophy points towards gentleness and kindness towards oneself instead of punishment. 

In stillness, the world is restored. In this week's episode, we talk about how "nothing" is not necessarily a bad thing - that we can take the absence of action as both a negative and a positive. The biggest positive of doing "nothing" is really that it's the path to stillness...without inaction there can be no internal reflection, checking-in or self-empathy. Silence and space is necessary for stillness, making it very important to carve out in our current lives. Follow us on Instagram on @the.daily.dharma. Stay safe everyone!

Hello! In this week's episode, we talk about the power of perspective. When we realize that we have a choice in how we see the losses and suffering in our lives, we gain a powerful tool in self-actualization and empowerment. Make sure to follow the podcast on Instagram @the.daily.dharma and subscribe on Spotify, iTunes and wherever you listen! Stay stay everyone, sending light and love.

Grief, or the pain of things we are attached to going away, is a pivotal part of life. In this episode, we talk about how Buddhist philosophy deals with grief and how we can learn to become compassionate observers of our own grief. 

This week, our story is drawn from my life's experience - having done many rash things, I had to take time to be silent, reflect and talk it out with a wise person. Now that this process is over, we talk about the many stages of learning to accept and draw insights from our suffering - as cliche as it sounds - suffering is perhaps the greatest teacher we have on life and the universe around us. Make sure to follow us on Instagram @the.daily.dharma! Stay safe everyone - Theruwan Saranai (May the blessing of the Triple Gem be with you).

This week has been super rough for me so I wasn't sure I could do an episode. However, a friend of mine recently reminded me that speaking of good, positive things helps to dispel negative energy. So here I am! In this week's episode, we talk about the story of a young woman who is told to collect a mustard seed from a family who has never experienced death. Tune in to hear what happens!

In this episode, we talk about the Buddhist perspective on forgiveness and why it's important not to harbor deep feelings of resentment and hatred towards others. 

Happy Wednesday! It's becoming a habit for me to do our episodes in the middle of the week and I kinda like it. In this week's episode, we talk about a beautiful fable I read in one of Venerable Ajahn Brahm's books about a big smelly monster. It's a funny tale but also so simple and easy to relate to. Make sure to follow us on Instagram at @the.daily.dharma to stay connected with us everywhere! Thank you for listening and stay stafe! 

In this week's episode, we talk about the Five Precepts. While most Buddhist traditions take it as a simple and straight-forward sutra, we explore how it's actually pretty deep - an open invitation to re-examine how you effect others and yourself as well as how much further you can go to align your actions with your values. Follow us on Instagram to stay connected @the.daily.dharma!

For today's episode, I share a simple yet impactful Buddhist story about a boy and a salamander. To stay connected to us after each episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @the.daily.dharma and leave us a review on iTunes! 

We take a look at the Lokavipatti Sutta to uncover the eight conditions of the world. You can read more about it HERE. Follow us on Instagram @the.daily.dharma to stay connected to us!

This week's episode is inspired by a different podcast called Guru, which dives into how spiritual materialism has lead people down a dark path, behind teachers who don't have the best intentions for their students. Buddhist philosophy clearly dictates that Dharma cannot be sold or bought and more specifically, that Enlightenment and wealth are two different paths. We discuss why that is and how we can fully embrace the spiritual path regardless of where we are materially in our lives. To stay connected, follow our Instagram at @the.daily.dharma

In part two of our discussion of the Sigalovada Sutta, we dive into the opposite spectrum of friendship - what makes a good friend? We talk about the four categories of good friends who provide financial, emotional, spiritual and social support and what their friendship to you actually looks like. Follow our podcast on Instagram @the.daily.dharma for more bite-sized Dharma!

The Sigalovada Suttra is one of my favorites because it talks about one of the most important aspects of our lives - friendships! More specifically, it clearly breakdowns the characteristics of people that aren't good for us and those that are. In part one of this sutra, we cover four types of legitimately bad friends and what makes them unhealthy and toxic to our lives.

In a crazy and chaotic world, how do we find silence? We take a deep dive into what silence and noise really symbolize and how to create silence in our minds. 

When our careers, financial security, personal relationships and everything else goes away, what are we left with? In this episode, we do a modern re-telling of the Ratana Sutra, a discourse on what we should hold truly valuable in our lives. I dig deeper into what I feel the sutra is trying to tell us and come away with practical wisdom to ease the stress of the tragedies that may rock our lives.

Karmic retribution is real. Everything we think, say or do has a consequence, regardless of our good or bad intentions. One of the best stories that illustrate how karma works is the story of Monk Mogallana and why he is depicted with blue skin. This is a very chilling story but it goes to prove why we always need to hold ourselves accountable for our actions and make sure that we are putting our best foot forward every day.

In this episode, we talk about Metta Meditation - a beautiful practice that you can use to generate peace of mind and calm even in a chaotic and brutal world. 

In this episode, we touch on the four noble truths - a way to fully understand our experience of unhappiness and find a way towards joy and satisfaction. 

Happiness is achieved through success...right? In this episode, we use the Dhammapada to challenge conventional wisdom about happiness and separate the two to better our lives. 

Why does a 20-something marketer decide to start a podcast about practical, Buddhist philosophy? Well, let me tell you - it is a long and strange story. In our very first episode, I take you through my spiritual journey as a confused kid to actualized adult with the help of Buddhist philosophy, meditation and self-love.