Beth Jacobs on Embracing Buddhist Wisdom for Modern Life
But it's an internal process and no matter what we do externally, I think solutions are not complete unless we deal with our minds and our internal process and if we can move those towards more generosity, more flow, more openness.
Ever wondered how ancient Buddhist teachings can help you navigate modern life? In this enlightening episode of 'The One You Feed', host Eric Zimmer sits down with Beth Jacobs, a clinical psychologist and Soto Zen teacher, to unpack her book, *The Original Buddhist Psychology*. Beth brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and deep spiritual knowledge to the table, offering a fresh perspective on how we think, feel, and experience life.
Beth introduces us to the Abhidharma, which she describes as the Buddha's original vision of the universe. This ancient text isn't just a historical artifact; it's a dynamic guide to understanding how various forces interact within us and around us. By exploring the five skandhas, or aggregates that form our sense of self, Beth helps us see how our identities are constructed and how we can deconstruct them to find more peace and clarity.
Throughout their conversation, Eric and Beth touch on practical ways to incorporate Buddhist principles into daily life. They discuss interoception, the body's basic sense of internal awareness, and how tuning into this can deepen our self-understanding. They also delve into the benefits of expressive writing as a tool for emotional processing and mental clarity. Beth emphasizes that true change starts from within. External actions alone won't lead to lasting solutions unless we address our internal processes.
By fostering qualities like generosity, flow, and openness, we can feed our 'good wolf' and create a more fulfilling life. If you're curious about how Buddhist psychology can offer practical tools for modern living, this episode is a must-listen. Beth's insights provide a roadmap for anyone looking to cultivate a life of greater mindfulness and inner peace.