“We can’t solve everything we face but we can’t solve anything we don’t face.” - James Baldwin
Stress is a part of life. How well we navigate our stress is a significant predictor of our well-being. Chronic or unresolved stress may not only lead to struggles in mental health but may negatively impact cardiovascular health, gastrointestinal health, and more. Research has shown that mindfulness meditation is useful in stress reduction. Meditation is one of many supports available for achieving overall well-being. A skilled teacher can guide students toward additional options, including counseling, when needed.
Choosing a qualified teacher is essential. The teacher will serve as a guide. Zen Master Thich Nhat Hahn describes a teacher's role as, "A finger pointing toward the moon but it is NOT the moon. The finger is needed to know where to look for the moon." "The mark of the teacher’s work succeeding is that the world itself and your circumstances become the teacher” Barry Boyce, meditation teacher, author, publisher.
What is mindfulness meditation?
Mindfulness meditation begins with becoming aware of your mind, its patterns, judgments, feelings and thoughts. The practice of meditation and daily mindfulness, everyday life, helps us understand the ever changing flow of experience. It's not what experiences are happening to us but how we relate to the experiences that cause us to suffer. With regular practice we can experience an improved sense of well-being and joy.
It’s not rocket science. Meditation is simple but not easy.
I invite you to join me on this path.
Lauren E. Rubin – Dharmamumma
Trungram Gyalwa Rinpoche -
“By widening the gap between action and reaction, you can gain some distance from your automatic responses and also gain an opportunity to know your emotions. You can stop being ruled by these emotions and instead begin to rule your experience of life.”