Level 7: Lojong Mind Training

More than just an expression of empathy, the Mahayana Buddhist practice of equalizing and exchanging self with others, is a special meditation in which we cease prioritizing ourselves and close loved ones, while feeling aversion toward strangers or enemies. In the meditation, we use both logic and wisdom to open the heart equally to all beings.

The 7 part cause and effect meditation for bodhicitta is a contemplative practice in which we imagine all beings as having been our mothers, recall their kindness, and develop a heartfelt intention to repay them. Equalizing self with others is a preliminary to this 7-step practice.

The mind training slogans of lojong help us to develop both relative and ultimate bodhicitta, the desire to become enlightened in order to benefit all living beings. Through the use of simple, applied reminders, we awaken the heart by enriching our everyday actions with bodhicitta.

Tonglen meditation, the practice of giving and receiving, is a profound compassion practice that not only benefits us, but can help us to heal others. In tonglen meditation, we practice giving what’s good while accepting what’s challenging. As our practice deepens, we break through perceived barriers regarding who actually gives and who receives.