June 2008 Issue: Meditating with the body

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On Practice

Paramananda: Exploring the face

Acclaimed meditation instructor and author Paramananda explores why he spends so much time exploring the face when leading people through body relaxation exercises.

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Reginald Ray: The body’s call to return

Esteemed author of five books on Buddhist history and practice Reginald "Reggie" Ray teaches a systematic process that results in a profound awareness "in your body rather than in your head." Here he discusses how the body can become a partner on the spiritual path.

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Jill Bolte Taylor: A stroke of insight

Jill Bolte Taylor was suddenly struck by an awareness of a deep connectedness with the world, a profound spiritual realization that her body blended with the world around her, that she was a being composed of energy, connected to other beings composed of energy. Bodhipaksa explains how experiencing a stroke gave one scientist insight into how the brain deals with reality.

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Vidyamala: Unweaving pain's tapestry

How do we meditate with pain when meditation helps us become more aware? Can meditation be a way of screening out uncomfortable sensations? Long-term pain sufferer and pain-management coach Vidyamala outlines three approaches to help make meditation enjoyable and sustainable when meditating with pain.

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Go Deeper Into Your Practice With The Open Circle

If you've been looking for the support and encouragement of a community of like-minded spiritual practitioners, the Open Circle may be just right for you.

The Open Circle is an ongoing discussion forum in which you can explore Buddhist teachings and apply them in your life. You can join the Open Circle at any time.

What are the topics for discussion and practice?

To begin with the discussions and activities are based on an exploration of the the very accessible book Buddhism: Tools for Living Your Life, by Vajragupta.

The focus of the Open Circle is on practice and discussion rather than simply study.

Each week we read and discuss a short section of the book, and take the principles and practices being covered into our daily lives.

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Test-Drive The Open Circle!

If the idea of an online practice community like the Open Circle appeals to you, but you'd like to test it out before committing, we're pleased to announce that we're offering a limited number of two-week trials. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you're interested, email newsletter@wildmind.org.

Ask Auntie Suvanna

This month our resident advice diva Auntie Suvanna counsels a woman who's looking for friendship with a Buddhist colleague, but who thinks her coworker may be a freak. Is your workplace a circus sideshow? If so...

Check out Auntie Suvanna's new column, and tell her your troubles.

Quote of the Month

"I used to think that the brain was the most wonderful organ in my body. Then I realized who was telling me this."
-Emo Philips

Given that it’s the mind that makes up the stories with which we try to make sense of the world, perhaps it’s not surprising that the mind also tells us the story that it is the most important part of ourselves. But in reality, Bodhipaksa points out, thoughts are inextricably entwined with feelings and the body, with profound implications for our practice.

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Meditation in the News:
Top Five Stories of Last Month

We've recently integrated our news database into our regular blog. We hope that you like the new arrangement as much as we do.

• Lotus therapy
• Walking meditation: steps that nourish body, soul
• Zen toolbox offers path to peace for prisoners
• Study: Meditation against ADHD
• Neuroscience of meditation and attention