Zen Buddhism 101 - Awaken Your Natural Joy from Udemy

What's inside

Learning objective

Students will be able to use meditation and other skills to access their natural joy at all times.

Syllabus

You will gain a general knowledge of the story of the Buddha and get why the Buddha arose and is still relevant.

Meet your instructor Marshall Stern as he prepares you for the first section, Life Of The Buddha.

Just about everyone has heard of The Buddha but what exactly is a Buddha and what relevance does his life hold for us?

The life's journey of Shakyamuni Buddha begins with a dream of a white elephant.

The King calls in all the soothsayers to predict Siddhartha's future. He receives a mixed message part of which he is not happy about.

Young Prince Siddhartha experiences life changing events that set him on the course of becoming a Buddha.

After leaving the palace and his life behind Siddhartha begins seeking in earnest for the way to liberation from suffering. After trying extreme methods he finds a middle path.

Having settled upon meditation as his method he begins to attain enlightenment only to be confronted with the likes of Mara the Hindu God of Illusion who seeks to thwart Siddhartha.

Having attained Liberation and Become the Buddha, the next 45 years of the Buddha's life are spent reading the Dharma. (Note- Special piece of information at the very end for your eyes only)

This is a Zen story set up to prepare your palette for the classes to follow. Spoiler alert- It has to do with attachment and freedom.

The Buddha, The Dharma and the Sangha are called the three jewels in Buddhism. Here is what they are and why they are so important.

Though Buddhism is expressed differently in different countries there is a core that runs through all the different Buddhist sects. This is what the Buddha taught and it comes down to The Four Noble Truths.

The First Noble Truth acknowledges the existence and universality of the experience of suffering though not as an organic part of life. Joy and Love are our natural state. Suffering is an aberration.

If suffering his not an organic part of life, what causes it? This is the Second Noble Truth, the cause of suffering.

The Third Noble Truth is about the end of suffering.

The Fourth Noble Truth lays out an eight fold plan for specifically ending suffering and returning to your own natural state of joy.

Buddhism takes on different forms including two major schools. We will be focusing on the older off these two schools called Theravadan.

This Zen story about a cloud that grows enamored with its own power illustrates the idea behind the Concepts we will be looking at.

This is the basis of the Buddhist thought that all are one. It really does make sense as you will see.

Everything changes constantly therefore everything is impermanent. What are the implications?

The idea of No-Self is one of the most misunderstood concepts in Buddhism. Here it is explained and made clear.

Who and what we think we are in daily life is a construct created by us but it has no reality beyond that which we invest in it.

Who we are and what we are become obscured when we mistakenly identify with things that are not us.

This is another Buddhist concept that is badly misunderstood. As with other explained concepts this will clear up any misunderstandings about, and clarify the importance of non-attachment.

So now that we know what we aren't what exactly are we?

There are two different types of meditation as described by the Buddha. Focus and Insight meditation.

Aside from being the actual 8th step of the Noble Eightfold Path, meditation is integral to making the Path come alive.

Our bodies are like instruments and meditation is the tuning of our instruments.

What waits for us in Stillness and Silence is the thing we are all searching for.

From a very practical point of view how does meditation benefit us?

Remember Mara who tried to interrupt the Buddhas enlightenment? Who exactly is he and what does he symbolize?

Meditation is one of those Buddhist concepts that has made it to the West but with many misunderstandings. We will clear those up in this class.

There are many ways to meditate. Some of the more popular Zen positions are shown and explained.

Preparing yourself to begin our Meditation in the next class.

Relax, get comfortable and enjoy this guided and silent meditation.

Buddhism is nothing if not practical. Applications of Meditation you can use in your daily life are explored.

Do you have to believe in Reincarnation in order to be a Buddhist? What is the connection between the two?

A Zen story about a wave that finds its own True Nature.

All beings fear death. There is no reason to as you will see in this class.

Birth is going to sleep, death is waking up and life is a dream.

The greatest pain associated with death is that of loss but loss is also our greatest teacher.

Cycles are everywhere. Why would life and death be any different?

Compelling evidence in support of Reincarnation.

Reincarnation is not seen as a desirable thing in Buddhism. The idea is to stop the cycle.

What is the mechanism that keeps us returning and determines the conditions of our lives?

What des it look like when you have transcended the cycle of suffering? Spoiler alert: It's very good!

The top five regrets of those for whom death is imminent and what we can learn from them.

A Zen story illustrating the idea behind Meet The Buddha Kill The Buddha.

What does it mean to really Meet The Buddha?

Where the Buddha is and where he is not.

The whole idea behind Buddhism is to transcend everything, this includes the Buddha.

The end goal and our Natural State of Joy and Peace.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Offers meditation techniques and philosophical insights, which can be valuable tools for managing stress and cultivating inner peace in daily life

Presents Buddhism in an accessible and entertaining way, using stories and humor to explain complex concepts, which makes it easier for beginners to grasp

Explores core Buddhist concepts such as the Four Noble Truths, impermanence, and no-self, which provides a foundation for understanding Buddhist philosophy and its place among other traditions

Discusses the practical applications of meditation in daily life, which helps learners integrate Buddhist principles into their routines and experiences

Features Zen stories and concepts, which may appeal to those specifically interested in the Zen tradition within Buddhism

Addresses the topic of reincarnation within the context of Buddhist teachings, which may be a point of interest for some learners, but not all

Reviews summary

Clear zen intro and practice

According to learners, this course offers a clear and accessible introduction to Zen Buddhism, especially for those new to the subject. Students frequently highlight the instructor's engaging and humorous teaching style, which helps make complex philosophical ideas feel relatable. Many found the explanations of core concepts, such as the Four Noble Truths and meditation, to be particularly insightful and easy to grasp. Reviewers often mention the practical application of the techniques taught, reporting significant positive impacts on their daily lives, leading to increased peace and natural joy. While broadly appreciated as a strong foundational course, some students noted that it primarily serves beginners and may lack the depth desired by more advanced practitioners.

Excellent for beginners, less depth for others.

"As someone completely new to Buddhism, this was the perfect starting point."

"It's a great introduction, but if you have some background, you might find it a bit too basic."

"I appreciated the simple approach, though I might seek out something more in-depth next."

"Good overview, but doesn't dive deep into specific schools or advanced practices."

Meditation guidance is clear and useful.

"The guided meditation section was very helpful for establishing a practice."

"I finally understood what meditation really is and how to do it from this course."

"Clear instructions on different meditation positions and types."

"Practical advice on integrating meditation into a busy life."

Instructor's style is engaging & humorous.

"His humor and stories really kept me engaged and made the philosophy come alive."

"The instructor has a wonderful, light way of explaining things, which makes complex ideas very digestible."

"Loved the instructor's approach; he's knowledgeable and makes learning enjoyable."

"His teaching style is very relatable and personable. Not dry at all."

Techniques offer real-world benefits.

"I've started applying the meditation techniques daily, and I already feel more peaceful."

"This course gave me practical tools to reduce suffering and find more joy in everyday life."

"The emphasis on practical application, not just theory, was incredibly valuable."

"The lessons helped me shift my perspective and handle challenges more effectively."

Concepts explained simply and clearly.

"Finally, someone explained the Four Noble Truths in a way that truly made sense to me."

"He simplifies profound concepts without losing their essence. Perfect for beginners like me."

"The explanations on topics like impermanence and no-self were incredibly clear and easy to follow."

"Made complex Buddhist ideas accessible and easy to grasp."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Zen Buddhism 101 - Awaken Your Natural Joy with these activities:

Review the Four Noble Truths

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Solidify your understanding of the core tenets of Buddhism before diving deeper into the course material. Understanding these truths is essential for grasping the entire philosophy.

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Read a summary of each of the Four Noble Truths.
Reflect on how each truth relates to your own experiences.
Write down examples of suffering, its causes, its cessation, and the path to cessation in your life.

Read 'What the Buddha Taught' by Walpola Rahula

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Gain a deeper understanding of core Buddhist principles through a classic text. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the Buddha's teachings.

View What the Buddha Taught: Revised and Expanded... on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of 'What the Buddha Taught'.
Read the book, taking notes on key concepts.
Reflect on how the teachings relate to your own life and experiences.

Daily Mindfulness Exercises

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Cultivate mindfulness through daily practice to enhance your ability to be present and aware, which is essential for meditation and understanding Buddhist principles. Regular practice will improve your focus and reduce stress.

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Set aside 15 minutes each day for mindfulness practice.
Focus on your breath, noticing the sensations of each inhale and exhale.
When your mind wanders, gently redirect your attention back to your breath.

Four other activities

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Journaling on Key Concepts

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Reflect on and internalize the course material by writing about key concepts and their relevance to your life. This will help you process the information and make it more meaningful.

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Choose a key concept from the course, such as impermanence or no-self.
Write about your understanding of the concept.
Explore how the concept relates to your own experiences and beliefs.

Explore 'Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind' by Shunryu Suzuki

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Deepen your understanding of Zen principles and meditation practice through this influential book. It emphasizes the importance of approaching Zen with an open and curious mind.

View Becoming Yourself on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of 'Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind'.
Read the book, paying attention to the author's insights on meditation and mindfulness.
Reflect on how you can apply the principles of beginner's mind to your own life.

Answer Questions in Online Forums

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Reinforce your understanding of the course material by helping others learn. Explaining concepts to others solidifies your own knowledge.

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Find online forums or communities related to Buddhism or meditation.
Look for questions from other students or beginners.
Answer questions clearly and concisely, drawing on your knowledge from the course.

Create a Personal Meditation Plan

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Apply what you've learned by designing a personalized meditation plan that fits your lifestyle and goals. This will help you integrate meditation into your daily routine.

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Research different meditation techniques.
Determine your goals for meditation, such as reducing stress or increasing focus.
Create a schedule for your meditation practice, including the time of day, duration, and technique.
Track your progress and adjust your plan as needed.

Career center

Learners who complete Zen Buddhism 101 - Awaken Your Natural Joy will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Meditation Instructor

A meditation instructor guides individuals in the practice of meditation, and this course directly aligns with this career. The course offers instruction in various meditation practices and Buddhist principles. The curriculum also provides a deep understanding of the goals and implications of meditation, which are integral for anyone interested in facilitating contemplative practice. The course provides the meditation instructor with a foundation in Buddhist philosophy that informs and enriches their ability to guide students in the practice. Anyone who takes this course will be well-suited to instruct others in meditation, and in the particular techniques of Buddhist meditation.

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Mindfulness Trainer

A mindfulness trainer teaches individuals how to cultivate present moment awareness, and this course is incredibly useful to someone interested in this role. The course explores the importance of meditation in cultivating mindfulness, and it introduces practices that can be applied in daily life, making this course a good choice for those looking to help others through mindfulness. The course's emphasis on the practical application of Buddhist principles, such as non-attachment and impermanence, enhances a trainer's ability to teach students. The curriculum as a whole provides an excellent framework for anyone who desires to teach the practice and philosophy of mindfulness to others.

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Life Coach

A life coach helps clients identify their goals and develop strategies for achieving them, and this course is pertinent to that work. The curriculum, which focuses on accessing natural joy through meditation and other skills, can provide a coach with tools to assist clients in overcoming obstacles and achieving personal growth. Through understanding Buddhist principles, such as the nature of suffering and the path to liberation, a life coach can guide individuals toward a more fulfilling existence. The course's emphasis on self-understanding and the pursuit of inner peace provides a valuable framework for a life coach, enabling them to help others find their path.

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Retreat Facilitator

A retreat facilitator organizes and leads retreat programs, often in the areas of wellness or spirituality. This course can provide a strong foundation for a retreat facilitator. The course's curriculum, which includes meditation, mindfulness, and Buddhist philosophy, gives a facilitator key skills and knowledge. By understanding the principles of Buddhism, a retreat facilitator can provide participants with a more enriching and transformative experience. The course's emphasis on finding inner peace and joy can be invaluable in the design and implementation of any retreat program.

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Wellness Consultant

A wellness consultant guides clients toward improved health and well-being, and this course can be an asset to their practice. The course's focus on meditation, understanding the nature of suffering, and finding inner joy can all help clients reach their goals. This course provides a framework for addressing the mental and spiritual aspects of wellness, which are often overlooked in conventional approaches. A wellness consultant who has taken this course will know how to guide clients toward a more balanced and harmonious state of being. The course's exploration of Buddhist principles and the path to liberation offers a unique perspective in the field of wellness.

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Spiritual Counselor

A spiritual counselor provides guidance and support to individuals seeking deeper meaning and purpose in their lives. This course may be useful for anyone who would like to be a spiritual counselor. The course introduces Buddhist philosophy and practices, which emphasize the nature of suffering, the path to liberation, and the importance of self-understanding. By exploring these topics, the course provides a spiritual counselor with the tools help individuals find peace, joy, and a sense of connection to something greater than themselves. The course's emphasis on meditation and mindfulness can be especially beneficial in a spiritual counseling practice.

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Yoga Instructor

A yoga instructor guides students through physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. This course can be useful to a yoga instructor in enhancing the spiritual dimension of their classes. Understanding Buddhist principles, such as non-attachment and the interconnectedness of all things, can enrich their teaching. The course's focus on meditation techniques can directly be useful in yoga classes that incorporate mindfulness practices. A yoga instructor who has taken this course can bring a deeper level of awareness and meaning to their practice and instruction. The course may also help with self-reflection, which in turn may help in teaching others.

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Public Speaker

A public speaker delivers presentations, which can encompass a variety of topics. This course may be useful to someone who speaks on topics of self-help, spirituality, or philosophy. This course introduces the speaker to the core tenets of Buddhist philosophy, which may help in the development of ideas for speeches and presentations. The course may also help the speaker with the practical aspects of their work, such as with confidence and composure. By exploring Buddhist principles and practices, a public speaker can develop a unique and compelling message.

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Author

An author crafts written works, which can be on a great number of topics. This course may be helpful for an author looking to write on the topics of self-help, spirituality, or philosophy. The course explores Buddhist concepts, such as the Four Noble Truths, the nature of suffering, and the path to liberation. Those who take this course will be well-versed in a rich tradition with deep insights into the human condition. This course may also help an author in their own process of self-discovery, which may help them find their own unique voice.

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Therapist

A therapist provides mental health treatment to individuals and groups. This course may be useful for some therapists, especially those who practice mindfulness-based therapies. The course introduces core tenets of Buddhist philosophy, such as the nature of suffering, impermanence, and the path to inner peace. The course also teaches specific meditation techniques that can be beneficial for a therapist to teach to clients. This course may provide a foundation for exploring techniques that promote emotional intelligence and stress reduction. A therapist who takes this course will have a unique perspective to contribute to client care.

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Social Worker

A social worker supports individuals and communities, and this course may be helpful to some social workers. The course introduces Buddhist concepts, such as compassion, empathy, and the interconnectedness of all beings. Applying these concepts in a social worker's role can lead to more effective and ethical client care. The course's focus on understanding the nature of suffering may help in forming a deeper connection with the communities served by a social worker. This course may aid a social worker in their own journey of self-reflection, which can also be beneficial to their work.

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Educator

An educator teaches students in a variety of settings and subjects. This course could be helpful for an educator who wants to incorporate themes of mindfulness and well-being into their teaching. The course introduces ways of self-discovery and finding peace and joy. These themes are important for teachers to explore for their own sakes, as well as for the benefit of their students. Educators who take this course may find that they are better equipped to nurture students, and to develop a more student-centered approach in the classroom.

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Human Resources Specialist

A human resources specialist manages personnel matters, and this course may be useful in this role. This course, which focuses on meditation and mindfulness, may help a human resources specialist who wants to bring these practices to the workplace. The course may help such a professional in their own self-regulation and stress management, which will help them better carry out the responsibilities of their job. By developing interpersonal skills and practicing empathy, a human resources specialist can improve their relationships with fellow employees.

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Corporate Trainer

A corporate trainer develops and delivers training programs in a business context. Some corporate trainers may find the techniques of this course useful for their work. A corporate trainer may be interested in presenting themes of mindfulness and stress management to employees, in which case this course could be very useful. This course, with its focus on meditation, can help trainers in their own journeys, which may help them to better teach and lead others. By taking this course, a corporate trainer could lead a more mindful workplace.

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Customer Service Representative

A customer service representative interacts with customers to address their questions and concerns. This course may be useful to a customer service representative who would like to more effectively deal with difficult customers. The course introduces Buddhist concepts such as compassion and empathy, as well as meditation. These teachings may help a customer service representative to stay calm and focused so they can best serve their customers. This course may also help a customer service representative to manage their own stress levels.

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Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Zen Buddhism 101 - Awaken Your Natural Joy.

What the Buddha Taught

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Clear and comprehensive introduction to the Buddha's teachings, often used as a textbook in introductory Buddhism courses. It provides a solid foundation for understanding the core concepts of Buddhism, including the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. Reading this book will greatly enhance your understanding of the course material. It is particularly helpful for those new to Buddhism.

What the Buddha Taught: Revised and Expanded...

Kindle Edition

Becoming Yourself

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Classic introduction to Zen Buddhism, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a beginner's mind in meditation and daily life. It offers practical advice on meditation and insights into the nature of Zen practice. It is valuable as additional reading to provide more depth to the existing course. It is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions.

Becoming Yourself

Kindle Edition

Zen Buddhism 101 - Awaken Your Natural Joy

What's inside

Learning objective

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Clear zen intro and practice

Activities

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Reading list

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