Intro to Buddhist Psychology

Ever get the feeling that emotions are running the show? Or that your emotions run wild when things get tense? You're not alone. In this 5-week course we'll explore emo and psych topics from the perspective of The Wheel of Life, a traditional Buddhist framework. Buddhist teachings offer a profound understanding of the mind, emotions, and patterns that shape our experience. We'll explore how confusion, habit, fear, and craving arise—and how awareness, compassion, and meditation can transform them. We’ll examine the psychology of suffering and the practical path toward greater freedom, clarity, and wakefulness. Each class will include experiential exercises that draw from both the Buddhist tradition as well as modern contemplative psychology. The Five Classes will cover: Week 1: The Three Poisons – The Roots of Suffering Week 2: Karma – How Habits Shape Our Experience Week 3: The Six Realms – Emotional Worlds We Live In Week 4: The Twelve Links – How the Sense of Self is Constructed Week 5: Liberation – Waking Up from the Cycle Whether you're new to meditation or have been practicing for years, this course offers a practical and engaging introduction to Buddhist psychology. Together we'll explore the habits, emotions, and assumptions that shape our lives, and discover contemplative practices that foster greater wisdom, compassion, and ease. For more information and to register, go to https://la.shambhala.org/event/867270-introduction-to-buddhist-psychology/