Well-being

22 August 2020

Humility opens our minds

The cultivation of humility purifies the mind of pride and ego. Some may deem this as a weakness because we have been socially conditioned to compete for achievements and success. However, those who truly understand humility know it leads to a more fulfilling life blessed with serenity within and harmony with others.
In Pāli, ‘nivato’ translates literally to ‘without air’. It implies the qualities of being grounded, modest, and not inflating the ‘self’.  Humble people are gentle and well-loved because they are genuinely respectful of all beings. By being open to advice and criticism, we are able to let go of our arrogance and we can face our limitations and pursue better ways to improve ourselves.

 

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15 August 2020

Tearing down our boundaries

‘Metta’ is a mental state of unconditional love and friendliness towards all beings.  This noble virtue could be a lofty goal for many because we may even struggle to have loving-kindness for those close to us such as our family members, friends and colleagues.  Out of habit, our thoughts and reactions are tainted with unpleasant or discriminating views of others.

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7 July 2020

Learning and growing with our children

Being a father or mother is a rewarding life experience which comes with a heavy responsibility towards our children.  When a child is born, we tend to his or her every need and comfort.  As they grow up, we need to mature with them by developing our skills to be their teacher, mentor and supporter.

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21 June 2020

Happy Father’s Day

He carried us on his shoulders and lends his sturdy hand in our times of need.  He cares for our well-being and cautions us sternly if we go down the wrong path.  Bearing his familial duty devotedly, a father is resilient, courageous and compassionate.

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19 June 2020

Plant a tree in honour of fathers

Fathers are our pillars in life; they provide for us, support us, and lend us their strength so that we grow up to be strong and confident.  Their influence shapes us in lasting ways as we learn life’s values through their own actions.  Their protection is just like the shade of a large tree, providing us with comfort and refuge.

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10 May 2020

Happy Mother’s Day

To mother,
the giver of life,
the centre of my world when I was young,
a provider of nourishment and love,
a courageous shield for my safety,
a vigilant protector during my heedless moments,
a teacher and nurturer, a tireless helper,
a true friend in joy and sorrow,
the light of my heart:

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4 May 2020

Creative videos on mental well-being

The Buddha’s teaching is centred upon understanding suffering and overcoming it.  For this ‘Buddha Day’, Nalanda Dhamma School students came up with a creative “virtual exhibition” using Doodle Art targeted at children and teenagers.  Themed “Happy Mind Happy Life”, the exhibition aims to promote mental well-being, and offer tips on how to develop our minds to a healthier state.

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28 April 2020

An “App” to count our blessings

Do we need an App to help us count our blessings?  Well… Why not?  Throughout the day, Apps are helping us watch our diet, keep us physically active, and even help to monitor our health.  But very often in our busy daily routines, we forget to watch our minds, thus giving rise to stress and complaints about unsatisfactory conditions.

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8 March 2020

International Women’s Day

Nalanda celebrates and pays tribute to the pivotal role of women in all aspects of human and societal development.  Whether as a mother, teacher, daughter or sister, women are able to deeply influence their loved ones and have the potential to inspire change for the well-being of many.

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12 February 2020

Joy of Gratitude at ‘Tea-offering Ceremony’

Last Sunday 9 February, devotees, volunteers and Dhamma School students gathered at Nalanda Centre to participate in the “Tea-offering Ceremony” and Gratitude Day.  This annual tradition is hosted by Nalanda Dhamma School and is an opportunity for us to express our appreciation to our parents, teachers and elders for their support and care.

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