EPISODE 11

A Conversation with Psychologist Amiee Pember: ‘Stop Trying’, Connection and Community (Part 2)

In this episode, we move into the heart of practice — exploring what it really means to live Buddhist wisdom in the middle of modern, often overwhelming, professional life.

The Wisdom of “Stop Trying”

Amiee shares a pivotal story from a nine-day silent retreat, including a moment with Ajahn Brahm that shifted her understanding of practice.

His advice was simple: stop trying.

Rather than forcing stillness, Amiee learned the importance of allowing the nervous system to settle naturally. Practice became less about effort and more about gentleness — meeting the mind with patience rather than pressure.

Being a Scientist of Your Own Mind

We explore the Buddhist invitation to become a “scientist-practitioner” of your own experience: test the teachings and see what works.

For Amiee, this meant recognising how rest, transition, and kindness toward the body are essential parts of practice — especially in busy professional and family life.

Connection, Silence & the Need for Community

Amiee reflects on the profound sense of connection experienced during silent retreat — a quiet, shared presence that felt deeply human and grounding.

Returning to daily life without a strong sangha can be challenging. We speak about how community supports integration and how shared silence often communicates more than words.

A Compassionate Reminder for Practitioners

At its core, this episode offers a gentle reminder:

The spiritual path is not about perfection.
It is about self-acceptance.
And about returning — again and again — with kindness.

For any practitioner who feels they’ve “fallen off” their path, this conversation offers reassurance: you are always welcome back.

Listen to Episode 11 (Part 2): “Stop Trying,” Connection & Community on The Practitioner’s Heart.