Deep Listening

Deep listening is based on the teachings of Zen Buddhist Master Thich Nhat Hanh and the Humanistic Psychology of Carl Rogers (empathic and active listening).

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Thich Nhat Hanh says that compassionate listening (deep listening) generates healing, reconciliation, and relief for the person who is suffering.

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The ability to listen deeply to someone, to listen to our friends, our children, our students, is something that must be developed. Deep listening enables true understanding, and true understanding generates love. Understanding arises from the ability to let go of our preconceived ideas to listen to what the other person is saying, and even to listen to what the other person doesn't have the courage to say. We listen not only with our ears, but with our whole body, our whole mind; we listen with our breath and our heart. We are completely present with the other person. And this deep presence creates a welcoming environment where the other person finds relief from their suffering and finds well-being.

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