Expanding Horizons

The Mother

On Mother's Day, Kris reflects on why we should cultivate gratitude to our mothers and to others who have nurtured us in our lives. He discusses how our relationships with our mothers (or other primary nurturer) influence on our psychic development. But as adults, we can take responsibility to understand our mother's effect on us and choose to let go of the influences that are not helpful to us, while affirming our own innate worth and dignity and capacity to love.

Enneagrams

The Enneagram system was developed by Osacar Ichazo in the 1950's as a way to categorise and understand human personalities. Here Kris outlines the background and basics of the Enneagram system, from its ancient beginnings to the modern day. Enneagrams may be useful as a way to develop the strengths and understand the weaknesses within each of our personalities, and perhaps help us journey towards transcending them!  

Getting High on Maslow

Abraham Maslow developed a general framework for what motivates human behaviour in 1943. It has remained well-known, despite receiving much criticism and elaboration since then. Here, Kris explores how Maslow's hierarchy of needs can help us in understanding our own motivations as we move along our spiritual journeys.

Sacrifice

This year, Easter and Anzac Day fall in the same week. In his address, Kris reflects on the common theme of sacrifice at the core of both holidays. Even without fully accepting the mythology associated with the events that inspired these holidays, we can respect and be inspired by the sacrifices that were made.

Good Vibes, Part 2

In uncertain times, we need good vibes more than ever. This week, Kris continued his reflections on 20 practical ways to uplift our spirits. Which one appeals to you?

Twelve Disciplines

Discipline is essential if one is to embark on the spiritual path. With a disciplined mind one can truly choose how one behaves. Kris reflects on 12 ways to help us develop healthy self-discipline, including reading, simplifying your life and making time for solitude. These can help us find more grace and peace in our lives.

Buddhism Made Simple

Buddhism appeals to many spiritual seekers because its logical philosophy offers a clear pathway to wisdom and peace. Here, Kris outlines the basics of Buddhism and explores how we can use its teachings and practices to assist in our own spiritual journeys and to bring peace to ourselves and our world.

Good Vibes

In this week's podcast, Kris takes inspiration from the "Good Vibes" program of the Oasis Centre at Flinders University. The Good Vibes program suggests 20 tactics that can help us feel better in our lives. Today Kris reflects on ten of these. From mindfulness and meditation to expressing kindness, these practices can help us feel better and progress on our spiritual journey. Listen on and perhaps pick one "tactic" to focus on in the coming week.

The Water Ritual

Todays address explores the meaning and history behind the traditional Unitarian Universalist "water communion" ritual. What began as a part of the women's movement in the 70's has lived on as a symbol of the dignity and worth of every member of our beloved Unitarian communities, where all individuals can mix in harmony and nurture life.

Silence?

"If you are quiet enough, you will hear the flow of the universe." In this address, Kris explores the value of silence to one's spiritual path. Why do we crave silence? And why is so hard to find, both within ourselves and without? Here are some suggestions for harvesting the wisdom of silence.