We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track. If this problem persists help us by reporting it so we can investigate it.
Watch this talk
Login or create a free account to watch this talk and discover other teachings from Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh.
Log in or create an account
The Treatise on the Stages of Yoga Practice 5
Dharma joy is the joy and happiness that arises from practicing the true Dharma—when listening to a Dharma talk, sitting meditation, walking meditation, washing dishes or cleaning the toilet with mindfulness, one can experience Dharma joy. For example, there was a practitioner who used to dislike cleaning the toilet the most, but when he was assigned to that team and practiced mindfulness, concentration, and insight, he discovered brotherhood and found joy in each simple moment. Dharma joy is present at any time in daily life, as long as we “produce” it with a little mindfulness, a little concentration, and a little insight.
When we apply Dharma joy to our daily life, we can find happiness in every activity:
- sitting
- walking
- standing
- lying down
- eating
- drinking
- cooking
- washing clothes
- washing dishes
- cleaning the toilet
With Contemplation of the Source, in just a single moment, as we bring a piece of bread to our mouth, we can see the cloud, the sunlight, the rice field, the farmer and the harvester—the bread becomes the body of the universe, a wondrous gift bringing peaceful joy. As long as mindfulness (full presence), concentration (deep attention), and insight (deep understanding) are present, happiness naturally arises in each simple moment.