Coronavirus, Dhamma, and Monastic Life

The onslaught of the coronavirus (COVID-19) is affecting people across the globe, including meditators for whom the Dhamma and inner reflection plays a critical role in life.  As the pandemic explodes, the media can scarcely keep up with the pandemic’s impacts on health, politics, culture, economy, as well as myriad other ways it is transforming life around the world. However for yogis, especially those now sheltering at home in their respective countries and for whom Burma has a special place in their hearts, one issue is of particular importance: How are monastics, monasteries, and meditation centers in Myanmar faring in these challenging times? Aside from anecdotal encounters or the random Facebook post, this is not the easiest topic to find information about.

Because of its wealth of contacts throughout the Burma Dhamma network, the Insight Myanmar podcast has considered producing special episodes examining the “on the ground” reality there. Potential shows would include the following information:

·      Updates, news, and information as to how monastic and meditative life in Myanmar is being impacted.

·      Personal anecdotes and stories from yogis and monastics currently living in Myanmar.

·      Continued possibilities for practice and retreat in Myanmar as the country responds to the growing pandemic.

·      Guidance and advice from leading teachers and practitioners on the role of mindfulness during a pandemic.

·      Historical studies of how past Burmese monks have responded to crises and disasters in Myanmar, as well as references from the scriptures.

Stay tuned for more as we look to develop these shows.