During his stay in Choedaypung Dratshang, prof. Igor Pietkiewicz PhD from the SWPS University of Social Science and Humanities in Poland gave a series of talks about mental heath and well-being. Prof. Pietkiewicz, known in our community as Jigme Pema Wangyal, is a close disciple of Kyabje Tang Rinpoche. He explained the concept of health and mental illness according to western psychology and psychiatry, how people develop good emotional regulation, and mentioned risk factors to developing psychological problems. He also answered numerous questions from monks about different behaviours and community issues. He stressed the importance of developing one’s awareness and understanding of emotions, impulses, and symptoms which requires honesty and self-compassion.
