Tonight I will introduce the practice of contemplating the thirty-two parts of the body at our weekly meditation group. This traditional way of investigating the body supports the development of both concentration and insight, and dispels attachment to concepts about the body. This blog post provides a basic list of the parts and a reminder [...]
I have been invited to attend an interfaith symposium at a Shivananda Ashram. As the Buddhist representative I give talks and workshops and may participate in the activities of the ashram to whatever extent that I wish. I am quite impressed with their disciplined schedule. Every day starts with a program of morning meditation, chanting, [...]
Have you ever seen the inside of a corpse? Can you visualize the layers of muscles, tendons, nerves, and bones in your shoulder, back, and legs? Do you know how many feet of intestines are packed into your abdomen? These may not sound like spiritual concerns, but contemplation of the body is a fundamental Buddhist [...]
Toni Bernhard authored the recently published book, How To Be Sick: A Buddhist Inspired Guide For The Chronically Ill And Their Caregivers. It is an inspiring and eye opening account of how the teachings of the Buddha can support the chronically ill person to deal skillfully with their condition, and grow in wisdom and compassion. [...]