A Buddhist approach to consumption

ABSTRACT

Typically we think of consumption in terms of material objects however consumption can be understood on many levels. In the vijananavada or Mind Only school of Buddhist Psychology, which underpins much of the currently popular practice of ‘mindfulness’, consumption is considered within a much broader framework of material objects, sensory input, motivation – as well as consciousness itself. Once a basic understanding of these four aspects of consumption is achieved, we begin to notice how we nurture certain states of being within ourselves and others and become cognizant of the capacity to be able to selectively choose what to nurture. This understanding is then a concrete and transformative mindfulness method.

KEYWORDS:

• Buddhist psychology
• Vijnanavada
• nutriment
• Puttamansa Sutta
• mindfulness

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Notes

1. In Pali: ‘yoniso manasikara’.

2. SAMANERA PAÑHA- Khuddakapatha 4.

3. Puttamansa Sutta; Samyutta Nikaya 12:63. Please see Appendix 1 for entire text.

4. Please see www.plumvillage.org for more information.

5. Vijnanavada.

6. In Pali: ‘kusala’ and ‘akusala’.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Phap Hai Thich

Phap Hai Thich is a senior monastic disciple of Venerable Thich Nhat Hanh who was ordained in 1997 and formally authorised as a teacher by Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh in January 2003.

Originally from Australia, he is an active meditation teacher who leads retreats, days of mindfulness, workshops and talks throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, South America, and Asia. Brother Phap Hai has the ability to offer a charming blend of ancient wisdom, Dharma scholarship, and contemporary applications, sharing deep teachings in a warm, accessible and humorous manner. His first book, Nothing To It: Ten Ways to Be at Home with Yourself is published by Parallax Press.