Thay explains the healing nature of the breath, showing us how to bring ourselves back to the present moment, where we can experience freedom, happiness and joy. Using examples from the world of today, Thay explains the healing power of the Buddha’s teaching of the Ānāpānasati Sūtra (the Full Awareness of Breathing), and helps us to see how happiness and suffering inter-are.

This is the second talk in a series of five given during the Healing Oneself, Healing the World retreat in the year 2013. Thay offered this talk at the Magnolia Grove Monastery, Mississippi, United States.

From the talk "Healing Internal Formations through Mindfulness and Compassion" by Thich Nhat Hanh

Internal formations cause unhappiness and manifest in our body, psyche, family, community, and society. Healing these formations is vital for individual and societal well-being. Proper circulation of air and blood prevents internal issues, emphasizing mindfulness akin to nourishing blood. Recognize harmful formations like addiction, acknowledge emotions through mindful breathing, and cultivate mindfulness to transform internal formations. Avoid toxins mentally and physically, mindful of influences like media. Engage wisely in conversations, recognizing limits. Balance desires, avoiding unhealthy attachments. Meditation transforms formations, emphasizing interconnectedness. Practice mindfulness, compassion, and mindful breathing to heal internally and positively impact broader communities.