Peaceful Abiding Soldiers: Incorporating Mind Training into the Canadian Forces

Abstract

The 4th Generation of Warfare, with its wars among the people, confronts soldiers with complexities, challenges and demands, which they are not adequately prepared for. We see this in the increasing level of mental health issues and operational stress injuries, and in the entrenchment and attrition of modern operations that struggle to achieve strategic goals. Given this, the training of soldiers needs to be adapted: mental and emotional capacity needs to be built and maintained. The Shambhala Buddhist tradition has developed a complete practice integrating meditation and mindfulness awareness training with Western military culture and forms, called the Dorje Kasung. Practices, principles, techniques, and insights, from this and other Eastern military traditions can be adapted and applied to the Canadian Forces. Answering a need to enhance, reinforce, and develop the understanding and embodiment of the military ethos and professionalism of CF members throughout their career.