The greatest gift is the
gift of the teachings
 
Oren Jay Sofer's Dharma Talks at Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center
Oren Jay Sofer
Developing a clear understanding of the teachings and learning to fully inhabit the body have been core parts of my Dhamma practice. These areas, as well a strong emphasis on the heart, inform and shape my teaching. The few years I spent training as an Anagarika in the Thai Forest monasteries broadened my understanding of the Buddha's teachings and instilled a profound respect for the Bhikkhu and Bhikkhuni Sangha. All along the way, I've been particularly interested in how other modalities like Nonviolent Communication and Somatics can support our growth in awakening.
2019-05-18 Meeting Adversity With Love 56:11
On the eve commemorating the Buddha's life and awakening, we explore how to meet the hinderances skillfully.
Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center Metta: Lovingkindness Retreat
2018-05-23 Taking the Practice Home (Closing Reflections) 13:47
Reflections from Oren on taking the practice home (excerpt of closing session).
Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center Metta: Lovingkindness Retreat
2018-05-22 The Company We Keep: Reflections on Friendship 55:43
The development of the path depends on the relationships and friendships in our life. This talk explores "spiritual friendship" - its many meanings and benefits
Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center Metta: Lovingkindness Retreat
2018-05-21 Metta For All Groups 69:28
Instructions, guided meditation, plus Q&A
Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center Metta: Lovingkindness Retreat
2018-05-18 Guided Metta (Benefactor and Self) 56:29
A short guided practice, plus Q&A
Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center Metta: Lovingkindness Retreat
2017-05-23 Finding Balance, Sustaining Wise Action 57:32
Equanimity arises from understanding the nature of this world, and provides the balanced perspective needed to inform and sustain long service.
Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center Metta: Lovingkindness Retreat
2017-05-20 Running the River, Handling Hinderances. 58:17
Handling the currents of the mind with kindness and mindfulness.
Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center Metta: Lovingkindness Retreat
2017-05-18 Guided Mindfulness Practice 1:20:53
Basic Instructions for Mindfulness
Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center Metta: Lovingkindness Retreat
2017-03-20 Compassion, Willingness and Courage 53:40
We are deeply connected to one another and all of life. When we are willing to meet pain and suffering with awareness, to feel what is present in our hearts, the door to compassion and awakening can open.
Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center Strengthening the Heart, Cultivating Kindness: Metta Retreat
2017-03-19 Instructions: compassion practice 58:33
Compassion is the ability to meet pain with caring tenderness. Formal practices strengthen and heals the heart. (Includes question and answers)
Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center Strengthening the Heart, Cultivating Kindness: Metta Retreat

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