Finding Space in a Chaotic World - Ralph De La Rosa

Welcome to this special holiday episode as we approach the end of 2025. As the year draws to a close, many of us find ourselves reflecting on what we’ve been working through - both personally and professionally.

Today, we explore a profound question that I have been working with this year: What is the difference between pain and suffering in meditation? Pain is the raw, unavoidable sensation - physical or emotional.

Suffering, however, sometimes called the “second arrow”: the mental resistance, stories, and bracing we add on top of pain. Meditation isn’t about erasing pain; it’s about letting go of the resistance to it. This insight is especially relevant during stressful times, whether it’s a tight deadline at work or the anxiety before a big presentation. By practicing “Recognizing the narrative our minds create” we can learn to pause, notice these stories we’re telling ourselves, and learn to sit with any sensations that present - without adding layers of judgment or worry.

This time of year can be challenging for many, and I want to Honour that. In this episode, we revisit a heartfelt conversation from Christmas Day 2022 with the late, much-loved Ralph De La Rosa. Ralph’s wisdom continues to resonate, offering comfort and insight to those navigating grief and difficulty, especially during the holidays.

Together, we’ll delve into the realities of grief, seasonal depression, and the lingering effects of what many are calling the poly crises happening around the world.

 In the conversation we share personal stories and perspectives on the importance of acknowledging and processing emotions, rather than pushing them aside.

Ww discuss the toll of living in survival mode, the value of wellness practices, and the power of mindfulness and meditation practices in being able to see when our mind is adding extra suffering.

The episode finishes with a short practice offered by Ralph designed to help you find and access inner space and connection, leaving you with practical tools to carry forward into challenging times.