“If the body is not cultivated, the mind cannot be cultivated. If the body is cultivated then the mind can be cultivated.” ~Majjhima Nikaya 36
The Buddha’s teachings repeatedly point to the body’s centrality for waking up. That is why mindfulness of the body is the First Foundation of Mindfulness.
Our somatic sense of the body is integral to deepening our practice, to discovering realizations and insights into the nature of existence. This can support unbinding from new and old patterns of physical and emotional stress. We awaken into and through the body.
The body is not an obstacle, but an asset, a sensitive vehicle worthy of exploration, and the very condition necessary for awakening.
In this program we will work with and mindfully inhabit this unique body. We will explore grounding in the body to support our practice. We will investigate its elemental nature, and learn the art of regulating and releasing habitual patterns of physical, mental, and emotional stress.
All levels of practice and all bodies are welcome.
Program Format: Our time together will include short Dharma talks, mindfulness meditation instructions, and guided meditations, with alternating periods of stillness and mindful movement, silence and speaking each day.
