In this episode of From Darkness to Light, artist and host Matreya sits down with one of the most respected Buddhist figures in the UK: Venerable Bogoda Seelawimala Thera – Head Priest of the London Buddhist Vihara and Chief Sangha Nayaka of Great Britain.

Venerable Seelawimala is not only a meditation teacher and spiritual guide – he has also represented Buddhism at some of the UK’s most significant national and royal events. He has served as Buddhist chaplain to the London 2012 Olympics, as the sole Buddhist representative at the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey, and in the same role at the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

This is a gentle, powerful conversation about anxiety, depression, and the “monkey mind”, and how ancient Buddhist wisdom can help us meet modern life with more peace, courage and compassion.

🧡 In this episode, we explore:

• Why untrained minds fall into anxiety, fear and negative thought loops
• The Buddhist teaching of non‑self (anatta) and impermanence as a way to soften suffering
• The difference between wholesome desires and draining desires
• The four Brahma‑Viharas — loving‑kindness, compassion, appreciative joy and equanimity — and how to embody them
• How our own thought patterns can trap us (like a spider in its own web) — and how to break free
• The importance of real community, connection and shared humanity
• A simple introductory meditation anyone can begin — even total beginners

🧡 Key Takeaways:

• You are not your thoughts — emotions arise and pass like clouds.
• Mindfulness is mental exercise, just like the body needs training.
• We can transform our inner world by cultivating loving‑kindness and compassion.
• Taking responsibility for our inner ‘subjective world’ is the first step toward freedom.
• Even a few minutes of silence can shift an entire day. This episode is best experienced in a quiet space - sit or lie down, relax, and let the Venerable’s words wash over you.

🧡 If This Conversation Spoke To You:

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Connect:

Venerable Seelawimala & the London Buddhist Vihara:

Website: https://www.londonbuddhistvihara.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lbvihara

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf48_vKevmNqJhqJ1M-ICXg

Matreya:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matreyaofficial/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsmasonnoise/

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@matreyaoffici...

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MatreyaMusic

From Darkness to Light is a conversation series hosted by Matreya , exploring holistic pathways to move beyond anxiety and depression into resilience, empowerment, and healing.

🎧 More From Darkness to Light episodes:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7g5M0Zm7G_8&t=97s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C44CSXR2T7w

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TEXWEJ3z-MQ&t=134s

Disclaimer:

This episode shares personal stories and professional perspectives related to gut health and mental health. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing mental health challenges, please seek support from a qualified healthcare provider.

If You Need Support: You are not alone. Please reach out.

🇬🇧 UK – Samaritans: 116 123 (Free, 24/7)

🇺🇸 USA – 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Free, 24/7)

🇦🇺 Australia – Lifeline: 13 11 14 (Free, 24/7)

🌍 International Helplines: https://findahelpline.com