Mindfulness and the Nepalese Community
Written by: Emerald Yee
Mindfulness has been used as a meditation practice for thousands of years, incorporating awareness and intention into daily activities. It gives one the opportunity to separate what is happening and how one reacts to it, providing the opportunity to have control over one’s actions and decisions.
History of Mindfulness
The concept of mindfulness can be traced back to ancient Eastern and Buddhist philosophies. Buddhism is defined through the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, providing guidance on ceasing suffering and leading a balanced life. Mindfulness is a key element of the Eightfold Path, considered the direct English translation of the Buddhist concept of Sati. This concept is the first factor of the Seven Factors of Enlightenment, which highlights being aware of the present moment and of one’s own mind.
Tibetan Buddhism is a specific branch of Buddhism that incorporates elements from Tantric, Mahayana, and Shamanic Buddhism. Although it upholds the Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path, Tibetan Buddhism focuses on the process of rebirth and the stage between death and rebirth. It also incorporates practices that include the supernatural, such as defending against evil spirits and worshiping deities. Even so, mindfulness continues to be present within Tibetan Buddhism. Through meditation practices like Shamatha and Vipassana, one can gain more awareness of their thoughts and emotions to ultimately gain wisdom and increased compassion for others.
Buddhism In the Nepalese Community
Buddhism is the second largest religion practiced throughout Nepal and has been woven into the Nepalese community in the US. More than 200,000 Nepalese people live in the US, mainly living in Texas, New York, and California. According to Pew Research Center, about 17% of the Nepalese population was living in poverty in 2019 with a median annual household income of $55,000, unemployment percent of 34%, and renter-occupied homeownership percent of 67%, highlighting the socioeconomic challenges faced by this community.
By incorporating Buddhism in their daily lives, the Nepalese community is able to face these challenges with resilience. Buddhism teachings focus on the understanding that suffering and challenges are temporary, but coping practices such as meditation, self-reflection, and mindfulness could help one face these adversities. Rather than becoming overwhelmed by their thoughts and feelings, they are able to manage them and train their minds to reverse rumination. Buddhism and mindfulness empowers the Nepalese community, as well as many others, by reminding them that their challenges do not define them.
