European Buddha

Welcome to a new episode of the European Buddha Podcast, where we explore the interplay of ethics and society with Munisha, Vice President of the European Buddhist Union (EBU). We delve into the EBU’s current priorities as an influential umbrella organization, shedding light on its endeavors to foster unity and harmony. Through our discussion, we gain insights into the profound importance of ethics and the timeless wisdom embodied in the five precepts of Buddhism - which are very dear to the heart of our guest. Munisha shares how she finds joy and simplicity amidst the serene landscapes of the Swedish countryside.

From a Buddhist perspective, we understand that nurturing the heart is essential, and schools play a vital role in shaping values, whether consciously or unconsciously. Through self-reflection and fostering healthy relationships, we lay the groundwork for a more harmonious society. The EBU initiative „Teach Peace,“ emphasizes that educators are central to this process, embodying principles of social connection and compassion that students can absorb.

We’re joined by David Rycroft, director of Teach Peace and Mind With Heart, an international charity dedicated to training teachers and students in sustainable wellbeing, emotional health, and social connection. With over 20 years of experience in training mindfulness instructors and school teachers, David brings a wealth of knowledge in tools for emotional health, particularly in working with teenagers. David introduced us to a simple yet effective practice called BBB (Body, Breath, Being), designed to cultivate peace even in challenging environments like schools with restless teenagers. Join us and let’s work together towards building a more peaceful world, one step at a time.

In this episode, we sit down with Gabriela Frey and Dr. Thea Mohr to delve into the latest developments in the Buddhist women's movement and the Council of Europe.

We spoke about the crucial role Sakyadhita plays as a member of the European Buddhist Union (EBU). Our conversation explores the intricacies of the EBU's representation in the Council of Europe, with Gabriela Frey serving as a key figure in the Conference for International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs).

What did we learn from our discussion? The importance of dialogue! The EBU's presence in the Council of Europe, represented by Gabriela Frey as the EBU's representative and its involvement with the Committee for Interreligious and Interconvictional Dialogue highlight the significance of dialogue in their work. Our guests provide insights into how their efforts are relevant to civil society, shedding light on the impact of Buddhism in shaping interfaith and interconvictional discussions.

The conclusion? In this precious world, gender balance and religious balance are greatly needed — in order to live in a more harmonious way together! Enjoy this episode!

Join us as we reflect on the past year, exploring moments of gratitude that shaped our journey. Embracing the spirit of fearlessness, we delve into the highlights and lessons learned.

In this episode, we embark on a spiritual odyssey with Carla Ott, a young female Buddhist practitioner connecting with us from India. Carla joins us to share her insights on various aspects of Buddhism, delving into her experiences growing up in a Buddhist environment and exploring the nonconceptual memories that shaped her spiritual journey from a young age. We spoke about the impact of „Interconnected,“ a book by Karmapa Orgyen Trinley Dorje and the great potential inherent in each of us as human beings.

Carla recently completed a Master degree in Buddhist Studies at the Rangjung Yeshe Institute in Nepal and now lives in France, where she is part of the environmental committee of Lerab Ling, a temple and retreat centre of the Tibetan Buddhist Nyingma tradition.

Join us for an ECO-Dharma Episode as we delve into the pressing issue of sustainability in our modern world. In the serene surroundings of the Maison Notre Dame Du Chant D’Oiseau, a historic monastery nestled in the heart of Brussels, we sat down during the AGM breaks to explore the theme of sustainability.

Our guest for this conversation is Gunaketu, an ordained member into the Triratna Buddhist Order and a speaker at the Eco-Dharma Workshops. Gunaketu generously shared his insights on what it means to lead a sustainable life, shedding light on the role Buddhists can play in this endeavor and his personal journey towards maintaining a positive outlook.

Throughout our discussion, Gunaketu underscores that sustainability and justice have emerged as pivotal movements in recent decades. These movements serve as guiding beacons, offering a glimpse of what a new, sustainable society might resemble. In his capacity as a passionate advocate for sustainability among Buddhists in Norway, Gunaketu is also a member of the Eco-Dharma Network, an initiative led by the EBU.

Tune in and be with us as we talk about how to cultivate a more sustainable and harmonious world, one mindful step at a time.

In this special episode, we'll delve into the heart of the EBU's vibrant community, offering you an exclusive glimpse into the enlightening Eco-Dharma Workshop, thoughtfully introduced by Jake Lyne. Listen to insights about the intersection of spirituality and ecological consciousness, shedding light on profound connections that can help heal our planet.

We also got a special interview lined up for you. Emilia and Martin took a walk in the park with the newly elected president of the EBU, Stefano Bettera. During their conversation, they explore visions for the future, discussing aspirations and what makes this work so unique.

Join us in this enlightening episode of the "European Buddha Podcast" as we welcome our special guest, Dario Girolami, to discuss the emerging field of Buddhist Chaplaincy in the West. We explore how the roots of Buddhist chaplaincy trace back to Buddha himself, and how it serves to address various forms of suffering.

During our conversation, we delved into the profound impact of Dharma-based companioned service, extending compassion to both Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike in places of suffering such as hospitals, prisons, and hospices. We discovered intriguing similarities between the environment of a prison cell and the contemplative life of monasticism!

Dario also shed light on the importance of acknowledging compassion fatigue while recognizing the rewarding aspects of engaging in Buddhist chaplaincy.

Towards the end of the episode, we took an outlook on the evolving training in Buddhist Chaplaincy promoted by the EBU.

Get informed:

In this episode, we are honored to have Deny Rinpoche join us. He is a regular speaker of the EBU Contemplative Science Network. We shed light on the importance of precise language usage, particularly when exploring concepts such as mindfulness and awareness, which can vary in interpretation across different languages. Our discussion delves into the challenges of translating experiential knowledge into words and the significance of establishing a meaningful connection between language and personal experience. In the spirit of experiential learning, we engage in a practice exercise guided by Deny Rinpoche. This allows us to personally connect with the teachings and reflect on their relevance in our lives. We also delve into the transformative power of the Dharma, exploring how its infusion into society can bring about profound changes. Tune in to this enlightening episode as we delve into the realms of contemplative science and the transformative potential of the Dharma in society.

• Recommended reading: Openness, Clarity, Sensitivity - Rigdzin Shikpo

In this episode, we are joined by Dominique Side, an expert in Buddhist education and the author of „Windows into Buddhism.“ Dominique shares her insights on the European Buddhist Union’s project to teach Buddhism in schools and the importance of making Buddhism accessible to young people. We discuss the role of mindfulness and meditation in education and the benefits of incorporating Buddhist practices into the classroom. Dominique emphasizes the power of Buddhism in turning information into personal knowledge and conviction, and how this can shape the way young people think and act in the world. Tune in to this enlightening conversation on the importance of teaching Buddhism in schools and its potential impact on students’ lives.

Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast, where we are honored to have Martin Schaurhofer, Secretary of the Austrian Buddhist Union, as our guest. We discussed the 40th anniversary of the Austrian Buddhist Union's recognition as a religion by the state of Austria.

Mr. Schaurhofer shares with us the history of the organization, its challenges, and its achievements in the past four decades. He emphasizes the importance of being innovative and creative to adapt to the changing world and meet the needs of our time. He says, "We need innovative and crazy ideas for the future!"

He also highlights the significance of humor and love in the practice of Buddhism. Humor is a great way to connect with people and to lighten up the atmosphere. He states, "Humour and love are so important!"

Join us in this enlightening conversation with Martin Schaurhofer, and discover how the Austrian Buddhist Union is making a positive impact on individuals and communities.

In this episode, we explore the intersection of Hispanic culture and Buddhism through the experiences of Ricardo Guerrero Diañez, founder of the Hispanic Association of Buddhism. We discuss the process of building a bridge of two seemingly different worlds, as well as the unique opportunity each translation of the Buddhadharma brings to the practice of Buddhism. We also delve into the importance of the consideration of the culture we inherit how the Hispanic Association of Buddhism is working towards creating a more mindful and welcoming space for all people. As Ricardo states "Come and see" and join us as we learn from Ricardo's journey and insights. 

In this episode, we take a dive into the Italian Buddhist Union with Stefano Bettera. Founded in 1985, the Italian Buddhist Union is a federation of Buddhist groups and centers in Italy, representing a wide range of different traditions and lineages. As an activity based organization the UBI (unionebuddhistaitaliana)  promotes the integration of Buddhism into Italian society through programs and initiatives aimed at education, social action, interfaith dialogue and more. In this episode we  explored the Italian Buddhist Union and its mission. One of Stefanos key statements were: "Just do it!" Well, so let´s just do it and join us as we learn more about the diversity and richness of Buddhism in Europe!

And yes - have a look on the new logo of the UBI: 

In the year-end episode, Emilia Raunio and Martin Landschein reunite with Ron Eichhorn, President of the EBU. They talk about how Buddhist principles can be brought into European Society and the important work that the EBU has done over the year - as a pan-traditional pan-European Buddhist organization, its doors are wide open to all people who are Buddhists or sympathize with Buddhist values. Ron Eichhorn gave some insights into his work and talked about what it’s actually like to be President of the European Buddhist Union. 

The Dharma is not male or female, not straight or gay, not cis or trans, but it is definitely queer! We spoke with our guest Dr. Michael Vermeulen about Rainbow Sangha, the acronyms LGBTQI+ and about Rainbow Sangha and it´s importance for Buddhism. What is meant by identify? We think of ourselves often in specific categories but what is meant when we talk about identify and how does a healthy approach on that looks like that is vulnerable, open and in touch with the environment? Given many lectures and articles on that topic Michael Vermeulen was a wonderful guest to explore these important topics with us. He was the Representative of the European Buddhist Union (EBU) to the European Union from 2011 to 2015 and studied Philosophy, Medicine and Theology & Religious Studies. 

Rainbow Sangha: connecting LGBTQI+ Buddhists, including friends and allies. We aim to end the isolation of LGBTQI+ people by making queer Buddhists more visible within their communities, within society and within history. We want to give a voice to queer Buddhism, identify safe spaces and provide resources for them. We also support engaged Buddhist actions motivated by values such as non-discrimination and human rights.

Jamie Cresswell: Former President of the European Buddhist Union, member of the Soka Gakkai International UK and buddhist practitioner for 30 years. His Buddhist background includes a degree in Buddhist studies and practice and study in many traditions and schools. He is the Director of the Centre for Applied Buddhism which focusses on the application of Buddhist philosophy to contemporary issues. A suitable guest to bring this year’s topic of „Engaged Buddhism“  into focus again. We spoke with Jamie about the requirements to care and change our world:  inner strength and intention - important qualities that can support our search of what might be useful for our Western society and what we all can learn from the wisdom of Buddhism. 

All through the long history of Buddhism, women have played a very important role. They received full ordination from the Buddha himself, were teachers, healers, great masters, founded lines of transmission and achieved enlightenment. The equality of women and men is an basic principle of the European and international legislation. Unfortunately we have to observe a big gap between the legislation and the experience of everyday life. In this episode we talked with Vajramala about her early childhood, about famous female Buddhist practitioners of the past and present and where we stand regarding the equality of woman in 2022. Vajramala, whose real name is Sabine Thielow, is a longtime and personal student of Lama Anagarika and was ordained in 1977 and received her teaching authorization in 1984. She is a teacher and has been running a Buddhist study and meditation center on Lake Constance. 

In this episode we met Prof. Dr. Antonino Raffone. He holds a position of Associate Professor at the Department of Psychology of Sapienza University of Rome, Italy. As Prof. Raffone stated in the episode: "The Buddha is the greatest psychologist of all time!" Buddhism can offer insights to science in many ways - for example offering  very refined investigations on how our self & our consciousness are  constructed.  Representatives of Neurophenomenology such as Francisco Varela emphasize the complex dynamics of the brain-network.  With the help of buddhism / science we can discover insights such as the important difference between pleasure and happiness - a difference that can help us to lead a more compassionate and content life.

Further Readings:

• Buddha´s´s Brain. The Practical Neuroscience of Happiness, Love & Wisdom by Rick Hanson & Richard Mendius
• The Phenomenological Mind: An Introduction to Philosophy of Mind and Cognitive Science by Shaun Gallagher
• The Quantum and the Lotus: A Journey to the Frontiers Where Science and Buddhism meet by Matthieu Ricard & Trinh Xuan Thuan

The Ukraine crisis raises many questions about our quest for peace and unity. How is dialogue possible and how can we help to prevent extreme conflicts such as war? We invited Gabriela Frey to reflect on these issues with us. She represents all European Buddhists in the Council of Europe and is the representative of the European Buddhist Union in the EU. She is also co-founder of the European Network of Buddhist Women where she supports and stands up for the rights of buddhist woman. With her extensive experience in parliaments and institutions she was the perfect candidate to speak about these issues and show us what good initiatives the EU is doing for a better future. 

In this episode we spoke about a topic that is very much related to the buddhist teachings: Animal Welfare.  Our guest for this topic was Carlo Luyckx - who has many years of experience working in Brussels as a representative of the EBU. We talked about the impact we have as human beings on the suffering of animals on this planet. With the EBU group Carlo provides a lobby for animal welfare in Brussels to get EU laws changed to reduce suffering of animals in the food industry and to create a powerful base of supporters for the cause. He got into Buddhism in Scotland in the 1970s where he got into contact with Tibetan Buddhism and learned the fantastic art of Thangka painting. 

"Buddhism in Europe - Unity in Diversity". This is the title of the upcoming EBU-Conference that is going to take place (live/online) in Nantes from the 22nd until the 25th of April. We invited Dharmacharini Vassika to our podcast who is one of the speakers to contemplate about the meaning of unity and diversity in the buddhist teachings. Vassika was born in the UK and discovered the Dharma whilst at university, through a group run by members of the Triratna Buddhist Order. Rapidly convinced by the power of meditation and the truth of the Buddha’s teaching, she committed herself to practising the Dharma within the Triratna Community. She is passionate about sharing the Buddha’s message of liberation and derives joy and satisfaction from witnessing people transforming themselves and their lives through committing themselves to the Buddhist path. 

In this episode we have invited two inspiring buddhists who are involved in the EBU with the topic of ECO-Dharma. We talked about the connection between Dharma and nature, the challenge of the environmental crisis, and how hope for the future comes outside of the decision-making processes. The Eco-Dharma group will be offering retreats, meetings and trainings this year to provide tools and discussion to deal with anxiety and find ways to appropriately respond to the ecological crisis. Silvia Francescon is responsible for the Ecological Agenda of the Italian Buddhist Union and has a Masters in International Environmental Law. Jake Lyne is the coordinator of the ECO Dharma group and is a past Chair of the Western Chan Fellowship and an experienced Buddhist teacher. Both of them are parents and love to climb mountains.

More about the ECO-Dharma Initiative: 

www.ubi-ecologia.it (online soon)

In this episode we caught up with Stefano Bettera to talk to him about engaged Buddhism. How can we engage and create a different way of life that allows us to flourish as human beings? Dedicated and compassionate Buddhism is about real concrete experience was Stefanos answer. One of his responsibility in the EBU is the new SASCE project -  a network of people taking care of crisis management and security for their communities. Stefano Bettera is vice president of the EBU and Italian Buddhist Union. He works as an author and journalist. With his philosophical background his writings concern wisdom of east and west, and political questions like migration and climate change. 

About Stefano Davide Bettera: https://www.stefanobettera.com

In the end of the year episode, the two hosts Emilia Raunio and Martin Landschein talk about the guests from this year and what a gift good company and friendship are. They also give an outlook on 2022 and what exciting topics we can expect in the European Buddha Podcast next year.  

In this episode we connected with Amalée Rycroft to talk about the future from a youth perspective. Amalée follows the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism, is half French, half British, and grew up in a buddhist family. She is the EBU contact for the European Buddhist Youth Network, a network of young Buddhists of all traditions. Amalée has a deep love and appreciation for education, the planet, and Buddhist wisdom. Among other things, she spoke about how, for her, the Buddhist idea of interdependence contains both the empowerment to act and kindness for ourselves when we don’t know what to do.