Awakened Care as Self Care - A Bodhisattva Vow
Summary
Angela shares teachings from Lama Rod Owens on "New Saints," framing self-care as awakened care and an extension of the bodhisattva vow. She explores how protecting one’s energy and practicing mindfulness are essential for collective liberation, distinguishing liberatory self-care from mere indulgence. Citing Audre Lorde and Ikeda, the talk argues that sustaining oneself is an act of political warfare necessary to avoid burnout. The episode concludes by linking radical rest and embodied practice to the broader goal of freeing all beings from suffering.
Topics discussed
Introduction to Mountain Rain Zen Dharma Podcast
Speaker introduction and overview of Lama Rod Owens
Defining the New Saint and Bodhisattva as spiritual warrior
Self-care as awakened care and reducing reactivity
Mindfulness practices and the four foundations
Loving people versus liking them and interconnection
Bodhicitta as the heartbeat of Buddhism and activism
Protecting energy and avoiding martyrdom
Audre Lorde's perspective on self-care as political warfare
Developing sensitivity, boundaries, and balance
Tending the fire of resourcefulness and liberatory care
Overcoming beliefs of unworthiness and deserving care
Nkim Moshima on burnout and the sinking ship metaphor
Radical rest and the evolution of radical self-care
Closing remarks and call to support the community
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