Ever wake up at 3am, remember a missed email, and suddenly you’re spiraling into an imaginary argument with your boss from three years ago? Welcome to papancha — the mind's favorite pastime.

In this dharma talk, I bring humor, tenderness and personal experience to the often-frustrating challenge of working with thought in meditation. Drawing from the Four Foundations of Mindfulness, I explore why our goal isn't to stop thinking, but to change our relationship to thought — from aversion or control to curiosity, compassion, and even plenty of laughter.

How to Befriend the Barking Dog in Your Head

If you enjoy these dharma talks and guided meditations and would like to support my work, please consider making a donation. Donations can be made through Venmo @lisadharma or Paypal lisa@lisaernst.com. Thank you.

Lisa Ernst is a meditation teacher, artist and founder of One Dharma Nashville. In her teaching, Lisa emphasizes both transformational insight and everyday mindfulness as an invitation to embrace all of the path’s possibilities. She has been meditation for over 30 years and teaches classes and retreats internationally.

How to Befriend the Barking Dog in Your Head

One Dharma Podcast