Atisha’s Seven Points of Mind Training – Lojong

Introduction- Practice 1: Preparation

Resources

  • Before launching the course, gather your study texts:

Assignments

Assignment 1

  • Prepare your study materials:
    • Journal— Purchase or select a blank journal that you can use over the course of the next several months to capture your study questions, notes, and reflections. Take a moment to prepare this journal with any title, decoration, or other means to make it your own.
    • Keeping Track— Review the Root Text: Seven Key Points of Mind Training and develop a way to track your progress in your journal. You might take the time to write out each of the statements with a checkbox or any other system that works for you.

Assignment 2

  • Listen to the recording for this practice, The Seven Key Points of Mind Training Introduction.

Assignment 3

  • In your journal, set your own personal intentions for this course. You can also note any initial questions you might have or any reflections that come to mind after listening to the introductory recording.
  • Initially, you will use your journal to capture any personal reflections you have about the weekly practices. Later in the program, we will give you specific prompts and/or unique assignments.
  • If you have not already, write down each of the seven key points in your journal. Memorize the names of each one. It is important to “see” the outline of a text. Memorization of the outline helps you  remember the meaning and also to start recognizing patterns.  
  • Test your recall by trying to name the seven points from memory at least three times a day.

An easy way to memorize the seven key points is to paraphrase them as follows:

  1. The preliminaries
  2. The main practice
  3. Transforming adversity
  4. Integration
  5. Measuring proficiency
  6. Commitments
  7. Advice

Assignment 4

  •  There is a lesson discussion area at the end of each lesson. This is an excellent place to foster connection, share ideas, refine understanding, and provide mutual support as you create new mental habits. Interaction with the program and among classmates helps to bring this program to life and to remind us that we are part of something larger than ourselves. Please be mindful that your comments reflect the intention of the lojong practices – loving kindness and wisdom. It is always optional to share in the discussion, but we encourage you to do so throughout the program.
  • Introduce yourself in the lesson discussion section below by answering the following questions: 
    • What drew you to mind training?
    • What are you looking forward to about mind training?

** Students must first log in to the website to be able to participate in the lesson discussion area.

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