96 - Emotions & Buddhism

Emotions are, of course, part of being human. We experience emotions like anger, anxiety, fear, sadness, loneliness, frustration. But why do they feel so powerful? And why do they sometimes lead to suffering?

In this episode, we explore emotions through the lens of Buddhism. The Buddha taught that our emotional life arises from causes and conditions (dependent origination), shaped by impermanence, craving, clinging, and the Three Fires (Poisons) of greed, hatred, and ignorance. When these forces are present, emotions can overwhelm us. When we understand them, they become 'workable'.

We’ll look at how emotions form, how they intensify, and how karma creates emotional habits that repeat themselves. More importantly, we’ll explore how mindfulness, wisdom, compassion, and not‑self help us meet emotions with clarity instead of reactivity.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your feelings, this Buddhist perspective may bring insight, relief, and a sense of peace.

Note: This episode is not medical advice, but instead only about the Buddhist religious understanding and teachings about emotions. You should always consult with a qualified medical professional.

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