Abiding in Mindfulness, Volume 1

The Body

By: Joseph Goldstein

Narrated by: Joseph Goldstein

Length: 8 hrs and 1 min

Publisher's summary

In the words of the Buddha, the four foundations of mindfulness (the four satipatthanas) are "the direct path for the purification of beings, for the surmounting of sorrow and lamentation, for the disappearance of dukkha (suffering) and discontent, for acquiring the true method, for the realization of Nibbana." Within the quintessential discourse called the Satipatthana Sutta, we find the Buddha's seminal teachings about the practice of meditation.

On Abiding in Mindfulness, Volume I: The Body, esteemed teacher and author Joseph Goldstein presents an audio curriculum to reveal the deeper insights of this vital sutta - and how it serves to inform and guide your own daily practice.

Goldstein sets the stage for your journey through the sutta by clarifying the Buddha's initial declaration of the "direct path" to awakening that is its promise. Through the wisdom of Buddhist masters of ancient and modern times and the expertise of his own 40-year study and practice, he shares the subtle nuances of each key term derived from the original Pali. Where do you find the ardency to sustain and balance your efforts along the path? How do you cultivate the breadth of mindfulness that makes any spiritual undertaking possible? What strengthens your perception of impermanence - both internally and externally?

With Goldstein's lucid instruction, you will discover a wellspring of profound revelations to revitalize and mature your practice, and help you bring forth its fruits in every area of your life.

Course objectives:

• Explore the four abidings of mindfulness, or qualities of mind, as the direct path for awakening
• Observe the three kinds of cravings and desires, and how they manifest
• Analyze how mindfulness of the body is the first foundation of mindfulness as taught by the Buddha
• Discuss the ways of clearly knowing and the four basic qualities of matter in relationship to the relative (objective or conceptual) and the ultimate (subjective or direct) levels of experience or truth

On Abiding in Mindfulness, Volume I: The Body, Goldstein introduces you to the first satipatthana, the domain of the body. Here, you will learn the cornerstone techniques for successful meditation practice, as taught by the Buddha himself.

From appropriate places and postures for practice to clear comprehension of all aspects of the body to the elements and energies that make up our physical form, Goldstein brings you to the threshold of the "ultimate truth" of our bodies.

Download the accompanying reference guide.

©2012 Joseph Goldstein (P)2012 Sounds True

Surprising

He's got a gentle, interesting voice taking you through...something between a speech and a conversation. At first, I objected to the lack of a more book-like organization, but he grew on me. There are too many things here that sneak up on you and suddenly, "I needed to hear that!" strikes like a gong, and you back up and listen, and think, and perhaps write it down. Or just stop - "I've got to think about that for awhile."

I'm glad I bought it. Also, too many narrators simply don't read this subject well, usually professional readers that don't add anything - or a translator that needs to hire one! Here, we get to hear a wise man relate things that he finds useful and provocative - extremely valuable. And it would only work in audio.

Recommended to those who know at least something about Buddhism. I'm not a Buddhist myself, at least in the religious sense, but I find they have some of the world's best advice.

Really good

I just finished listening to all three parts of this teaching.
I found it easy to understand with wonderful stories and examples. Joseph Goldstein is clear and easy to listen to. I learned alot.

Catalyst of peace

I found listening to this audio program very calming. Joe is a great teacher. The teachings are very practical and helpful in day to day life. I look forward to continuing the series.

Excellent

Beautiful, useful, wonderful dhamma talks & thoughts & techniques, compiled together in one small place for us

Great dharma talks

Joseph offers an Incredible wealth of knowledge and experience. Thank you for sharing! I can’t wait to start volume 2

I have nothing but positive things to say except..

That the first track is actually from the 6th lecture I believe, before the actual series begins on track 2.

And, well, that's not really a negative thing to say, right? Just a shout-out for a little IT intervention, I suppose.

Regardless, Joseph Goldstein should be a core component to your Buddhist lecture library in that he strikes the balance between very technical and very loving/open with a sincerity that you can appreciate - if you are ok with slow paced, careful formulations of words.

Probably not for those seeking fast injections of mental calm and assurances from Deepak Chopra, Dr Phil, or Eckhart Tolle.

Thank You so much!

I have all three in this series and keep coming back to them. The best teachings on meditation and Buddhism I have found to date, and I have quite a collection now. Yes, they are longer recordings, but an excellent investment of time. Thanks again.

My review was deleted

I reviewed this audiobook. The review existed for two days and then was summarily removed. it seems that a reviewer of reviews uses his or her ability to delete reviews in a way that certainly violates Amazon policy, because I was not notified. I ask that whoever reviews this review look into who deleted the review. Please bring to it management, as the summary removal certainly violates Amazon rules I am sure. I know that if my review did not meet community guidelines, I should be notified. I received no notification at all. This is my sole concern. The review itself does not concern me, I was actually coming here to remove it myself and re-write it. But, I hope to shed light on the individual who deleted the review. I wish to report his or her abuse of editing permissions and lack of respect for Amazon procedures.

A must read for those on the path.

Increased my depth and breath of understanding. Increased my depth and breath of understanding

Life Changing

What did you love best about Abiding in Mindfulness, Volume 1?

The lessens are great; engaging and peaceful. I listen to them over and over.

Any additional comments?

Note: The audio starts on Sesson 6 then proceeds to Sesson 1. If you don't mind, then it doesn't matter...