Sharon is joined by her longtime friend, and fellow MindPod patron, Raghu Markus, for a thoughtful and thorough discussion of the principles involved in the Buddhist teaching of the Eightfold Path, as well as how we can apply its core sentiments to our modern landscape. The Path begins with the basic recognition of our seamless connection to the world around us, and an evolving determination to avoid actions that we know will result in suffering. We discover our affinity toward intuitive action, and learn to incorporate that connection in all aspects of our lives.   Episode Outline: - Right Understanding - The cause/effect relationship - Right Thought (Right Intention) - Right Speech - What are we saying, and how are we saying it? - Right Livelihood - Kindness is key - Right Action - Actively promoting harmony - Right Concentration - Stabilizing our intentions - Right Effort - Doing the necessary work (without strain or judgment) - Right Mindfulness - Unbiased perception