It is important to understand what being kind to ourselves means in the Buddhist context because in a worldly way it usually means being self-indulgent. In Buddhism, it means doing what is best for ourselves in the long run, and practising the Buddhist path falls into this. The basis of the path is taking refuge in the Three Jewels and taking and keeping the precepts, which are the foremost ways we can practise taking care of and protecting ourselves. The Buddha, Dharma and Sangha provide a path to get us out of the unsatisfactory conditions of this life. By practising this path, we cast off the blinders that keep us trapped and become awakened to the peace and joy that is nirvana. Have you ever seen an unhappy Buddha?

“365 Gems of Wisdom” e-book is out now!