An Application Mindfulness to Strengthen Relationships for Peaceful Family

Abstract

The study consisted of the following objectives: 1) to investigate the strengthening of family relationships according to the modernsciences 2) to explore the use of mindfulness that strengthens family relationships according to Buddhism; and 3) to propose the use of mindfulness to strengthen peaceful family relationship. Documentary research was used in the study, and the data gained from the relevant documents were analyzed and discussed using an inductive method.

From the study, the following results are found: 1) According to modern science, enhancing family relationships aims to prevent conflicts that might lead to family breakdown. In order to build affection, warmth, and understanding in the family, physical, verbal, and mental expressions are required. 2) In Buddhism, mindfulness is the foundation for training oneself to recall one's actions, thoughts, and speech in order to live a peaceful life. Mindfulness also helps in directing oneself in observing the five precepts, which are the basis of maintaining the relationships and fostering family peace. 3) Broken family relationships are caused by a variety of factors, including the economic crisis, differences in family backgrounds, age differences that lead to misunderstanding and conflict, and a lack of precept observance that leads to a loss of trust. The use of mindfulness in maintaining family relationship is: the use of mindfulness in the face of a family economic crisis; the use of mindfulness in married life when the pair comes from different backgrounds and cultures; and the use of mindfulness in solving communication problems between people of different ages. Mindfulness can be used to observe the precepts as the guideline for having a decent life. Mindfulness can be used to direct and cultivate oneself for inner peace that leads to outer peace, which contributes to decent behavior for peaceful coexistence.