Podcasts about contemplative practices

Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Jan Hosea at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico, as we delve into the essence of spiritual identity and Elderhood. Discover the history and current character of St. Mary's congregation, renowned for their welcoming and pastoral care. Learn about the transition from a life centered on 'doing' to one focused on 'being,' and how this shift can lead to deeper spiritual fulfillment. Jan also shares insights about a new six-week program dedicated to exploring spirituality in later life, encouraging the community to reflect on their spiritual 'bucket list.' Don't miss this enriching discussion about wisdom, contemplation, and embracing a new phase of life. 00:00 Introduction to Spiritual Identity 00:33 Welcome to St. Mary's Episcopal Church 01:00 History and Formation of St. Mary's 02:48 Current Congregation and Activities 03:55 Pastoral Care Team and Community Support 05:07 Pet Memorial Garden and Church Grounds 06:08 Elderhood and Spiritual Growth Program 10:23 Contemplative Practices and Wisdom 15:19 Spiritual Bucket List and Personal Fulfillment 17:39 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

In today's episode, I'm joined by Noel Coakley, someone I've known from a distance since high school. Back then, he was just my friend's cool older brother, but little did I know, he had already started his meditation journey in 1996. Fast forward to today, and Noel is blending Buddhism, psychology, meditation, and trauma-informed Western psychology to support his clients. He's also the founder and director of the Boston Center for Contemplative Practice.Noel's approach to wholeness, both in life and in his work, really resonates with me, and I was excited to explore how these teachings can deepen our understanding of ourselves. In this episode, we dive into the spiritual aspects of parenting, how Buddhism can inform our approach to life and leadership, and Noel shares a transformational practice that really aligns with shadow work.Noel discusses his work, emphasizing the importance of unconditional love and the concept of Buddha nature. He shares a practice called Guru Yoga, which involves visualizing an unconditional loving being to reconnect with one's inherent wholeness. The conversation highlights the integration of spirituality and therapy, the challenges of parenting, and the ongoing practice of self-awareness and compassion. Noel hosts annual retreats, courses, and more - make sure to connect with Nore for more. If you enjoy this conversation, be sure to share it with others.Connect with Noel: Bio: https://www.thebccp.com/team/2019/6/25/noel-coakley-med-lmhcEvents: www.thebccp.comIG: @wakeupsleepybuddhaSchedule a session: Schedule a Meditation/Therapy Session or General MeetingLink to free set of guided meditationsLinktree (upcoming events, podcasts): https://linktr.ee/wakeupsleepybuddhaSupport the showWelcome to the Raising Wholeness podcast. I'm Jenn Reilly, your host and guide on a journey of deepening into the full complexity and simplicity of our human experience. As a coach, mentor, and advocate for women's rights, I'm passionate about supporting women—especially those navigating the shifts of motherhood and leadership—on their path to embodied wholeness. Through my own transformative journey, catalyzed by early motherhood and postpartum, I've learned that true wholeness means embracing every part of ourselves: the strengths, the challenges, and everything in between. It's about honoring our cycles, aligning with our unique design, and cultivating self-trust and support as we move through life. On this podcast, we explore the deep and sometimes messy human experience—tending to our bodies, minds, and spirits in a way that is conscious, compassionate, and attuned. Whether you're seeking to heal generational patterns, deepen your leadership, or find more balance in your life, Raising Wholeness is a space where we can evolve together. If you're ready to move from surviving to thriving, to lead from a place of wholeness, and to model this for the next generation, you're in the right place. Thank you for joining me on this journey. I'm honored to walk alongside you. Book a Free Discovery Call ...

Jonathan Prescott explores how you can use contemplative practices to make your life more joyful. He shares his life-long contemplative practice techniques and encourages you to find ways to transform everyday activities into opportunities for deepening.

In this enlightening conversation, I sat down with Corey Jackson, a prominent figure in mindfulness research and emotional regulation, to explore the intricate world of mindfulness and metacognitive approaches to emotion. We traversed through the realms of Buddhist psychology, the impact of mindfulness on anxiety and depression, and the importance of attentional control. What You'll Learn: Mindfulness and Metacognitive Therapy: Corey discussed the differences between traditional cognitive-behavioural models and metacognitive models. He detailed how the latter focuses on metacognitive beliefs and how adjusting these beliefs can affect anxiety and depression more effectively. This model, often overlooked, offers a promising avenue for those dealing with mental health challenges. Attention and Its Role: Corey and I delved into the critical aspect of attention in shaping our reality. Drawing parallels with William James's theories and contemporary neuroscience, we examined how controlled attention can lead to better emotional regulation. Corey emphasised the importance of knowing not just what you pay attention to, but how you attend to it, and how this awareness can transform your emotional and psychological well-being. Traditional vs. Modern Mindfulness Practices: A significant portion of our conversation focused on comparing traditional Buddhist mindfulness practices with the modern, often simplified versions popularised in the West. Corey highlighted the rich history and depth of traditional practices, which often encompass a broader system of mental cultivation beyond just breath awareness. The Importance of Judgments: We explored the role of judgments in our mental and emotional lives. Corey challenged the popular Western notion of nonjudgmental awareness, explaining how traditional practices encouraged good judgment to guide behaviour aligned with personal goals and virtues. The Role of Emotions: Corey shared insights from his work with emotional balance, particularly how emotions serve as signposts indicating important events. We discussed strategies from both Eastern and Western philosophies to manage emotions, transform emotional states, and cultivate a balanced emotional life. Key Takeaways: Mindfulness as a Multifaceted Tool Attention and Emotional Control Judgment is Crucial Traditional Practices Hold Rich Insights Emotions are Indicative, Not the Enemy Resources: Visit Corey Jackson's website for more about his work and offerings. Explore Amishi Jha's research on mindfulness and attention for further insights into the neuroscience behind these practices Support and Share: If you found this conversation insightful, consider exploring Corey's online courses to further your understanding and practice of mindfulness and emotional balance. Cultivating emotional balance is a skill that benefits everyone, and Corey’s expert guidance offers a valuable path toward achieving it. 00:59 PhD Journey and Challenges 02:45 Exploring Mindfulness Mechanisms 04:30 Metacognitive Model and Therapy 08:15 Traditional vs. Modern Mindfulness 10:13 Brooding vs. Reflective Rumination 12:45 Contemplative Practices and Wisdom 17:26 Secularisation of Mindfulness 29:08 Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Observing Thoughts 29:59 Comparing Buddhist and Tibetan Views on Thought Observation 31:23 Attention and Attentional Control in Various Fields 33:20 The Role of Attention in Tibetan Buddhism 35:07 Managing Anger and Emotional Reactions 37:28 The Stoic Approach to Anger 39:14 Paul Ekman's Insights on Emotions 44:17 Controlled vs. Captured Attention 50:41 Brain Activity Patterns in Meditators 53:15 Corey Jackson's Work and Online Programs 55:13 Concluding Thoughts and Future ProjectsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian Harnetty's recent record, Words and Silences, takes voice recordings made by the famed American Trappist monk Thomas Merton and sets them within Harnetty's musical compositions. The meditative and revealing result has been lauded by critics in The Wire, MOJO, and Aquarium Drunkard.  In this episode, we share a Phantom Power exclusive: a brand new narrative piece that Brian created about the making of his record. “Words and Silences: The Thomas Merton Hermitage Tapes” is much more than a behind-the-scenes look at Brian's process. Harnetty's audio diary is its own moving meditation on Merton, solitude, sound, media, and the self.  This is the second piece that Brian has shared with Phantom Power–you may remember his Forest Listening Rooms episode. Like that episode, this is something special. We highly recommend taking a walk in the woods or finding a quiet space to listen to this beautiful meditation. And after we listen, Mack talks to Brian about what we've heard.  (And, of course, we'll have a longer version of the interview and our What's Good segment for our Patrons.) Who was Thomas Merton? Thomas Merton was an author, mystic, poet, and comparative religion scholar who lived from 1915 to 1968. It's hard to imagine a spiritual superstar quite like Merton appearing in America today. His first book, 1948's “The Seven Storey Mountain,” became a best-seller and led to a flood of young men applying to join Catholic monasteries.  Merton had a major influence on spaces such as the progressive Catholic church Mack grew up going to. He was outward facing, committed to leftist causes, and fascinated by other religions, but at the same time, he retreated from his fame into his hermitage in KY. In The New Yorker, Alan Jacobs called him “perhaps the proper patron saint of our information-saturated age, of we who live and move and have our being in social media, and then, desperate for peace and rest, withdraw into privacy and silence, only to return.” Brian Harnetty Brian Harnetty is an interdisciplinary sound artist who uses listening to foster social change. He is known for his recording projects with archives, socially engaged sound works, sound and video installations, live performances, and writings. His interdisciplinary approach has been compared to “working like a novelist…breathing new life into old chunks of sound by radically recontextualizing them” (Clive Bell, The Wire). Brian is currently a Faculty Fellow at Ohio State University's Global Arts and Humanities Discovery Theme (2022-23), Harnetty is a two-time recipient of the MAP Fund Grant (2021, 2020), and received the A Blade of Grass Fellowship for Socially Engaged Art in Contemplative Practices (2018) and the Creative Capital Performing Arts Award (2016). He has also twice received MOJO Magazine's “Underground Album of the Year” (2019, 2013). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Brian Harnetty's recent record, Words and Silences, takes voice recordings made by the famed American Trappist monk Thomas Merton and sets them within Harnetty's musical compositions. The meditative and revealing result has been lauded by critics in The Wire, MOJO, and Aquarium Drunkard.  In this episode, we share a Phantom Power exclusive: a brand new narrative piece that Brian created about the making of his record. “Words and Silences: The Thomas Merton Hermitage Tapes” is much more than a behind-the-scenes look at Brian's process. Harnetty's audio diary is its own moving meditation on Merton, solitude, sound, media, and the self.  This is the second piece that Brian has shared with Phantom Power–you may remember his Forest Listening Rooms episode. Like that episode, this is something special. We highly recommend taking a walk in the woods or finding a quiet space to listen to this beautiful meditation. And after we listen, Mack talks to Brian about what we've heard.  (And, of course, we'll have a longer version of the interview and our What's Good segment for our Patrons.) Who was Thomas Merton? Thomas Merton was an author, mystic, poet, and comparative religion scholar who lived from 1915 to 1968. It's hard to imagine a spiritual superstar quite like Merton appearing in America today. His first book, 1948's “The Seven Storey Mountain,” became a best-seller and led to a flood of young men applying to join Catholic monasteries.  Merton had a major influence on spaces such as the progressive Catholic church Mack grew up going to. He was outward facing, committed to leftist causes, and fascinated by other religions, but at the same time, he retreated from his fame into his hermitage in KY. In The New Yorker, Alan Jacobs called him “perhaps the proper patron saint of our information-saturated age, of we who live and move and have our being in social media, and then, desperate for peace and rest, withdraw into privacy and silence, only to return.” Brian Harnetty Brian Harnetty is an interdisciplinary sound artist who uses listening to foster social change. He is known for his recording projects with archives, socially engaged sound works, sound and video installations, live performances, and writings. His interdisciplinary approach has been compared to “working like a novelist…breathing new life into old chunks of sound by radically recontextualizing them” (Clive Bell, The Wire). Brian is currently a Faculty Fellow at Ohio State University's Global Arts and Humanities Discovery Theme (2022-23), Harnetty is a two-time recipient of the MAP Fund Grant (2021, 2020), and received the A Blade of Grass Fellowship for Socially Engaged Art in Contemplative Practices (2018) and the Creative Capital Performing Arts Award (2016). He has also twice received MOJO Magazine's “Underground Album of the Year” (2019, 2013). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sound-studies

Brian Harnetty's recent record, Words and Silences, takes voice recordings made by the famed American Trappist monk Thomas Merton and sets them within Harnetty's musical compositions. The meditative and revealing result has been lauded by critics in The Wire, MOJO, and Aquarium Drunkard.  In this episode, we share a Phantom Power exclusive: a brand new narrative piece that Brian created about the making of his record. “Words and Silences: The Thomas Merton Hermitage Tapes” is much more than a behind-the-scenes look at Brian's process. Harnetty's audio diary is its own moving meditation on Merton, solitude, sound, media, and the self.  This is the second piece that Brian has shared with Phantom Power–you may remember his Forest Listening Rooms episode. Like that episode, this is something special. We highly recommend taking a walk in the woods or finding a quiet space to listen to this beautiful meditation. And after we listen, Mack talks to Brian about what we've heard.  (And, of course, we'll have a longer version of the interview and our What's Good segment for our Patrons.) Who was Thomas Merton? Thomas Merton was an author, mystic, poet, and comparative religion scholar who lived from 1915 to 1968. It's hard to imagine a spiritual superstar quite like Merton appearing in America today. His first book, 1948's “The Seven Storey Mountain,” became a best-seller and led to a flood of young men applying to join Catholic monasteries.  Merton had a major influence on spaces such as the progressive Catholic church Mack grew up going to. He was outward facing, committed to leftist causes, and fascinated by other religions, but at the same time, he retreated from his fame into his hermitage in KY. In The New Yorker, Alan Jacobs called him “perhaps the proper patron saint of our information-saturated age, of we who live and move and have our being in social media, and then, desperate for peace and rest, withdraw into privacy and silence, only to return.” Brian Harnetty Brian Harnetty is an interdisciplinary sound artist who uses listening to foster social change. He is known for his recording projects with archives, socially engaged sound works, sound and video installations, live performances, and writings. His interdisciplinary approach has been compared to “working like a novelist…breathing new life into old chunks of sound by radically recontextualizing them” (Clive Bell, The Wire). Brian is currently a Faculty Fellow at Ohio State University's Global Arts and Humanities Discovery Theme (2022-23), Harnetty is a two-time recipient of the MAP Fund Grant (2021, 2020), and received the A Blade of Grass Fellowship for Socially Engaged Art in Contemplative Practices (2018) and the Creative Capital Performing Arts Award (2016). He has also twice received MOJO Magazine's “Underground Album of the Year” (2019, 2013). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Harnetty's recent record, Words and Silences, takes voice recordings made by the famed American Trappist monk Thomas Merton and sets them within Harnetty's musical compositions. The meditative and revealing result has been lauded by critics in The Wire, MOJO, and Aquarium Drunkard.  In this episode, we share a Phantom Power exclusive: a brand new narrative piece that Brian created about the making of his record. “Words and Silences: The Thomas Merton Hermitage Tapes” is much more than a behind-the-scenes look at Brian's process. Harnetty's audio diary is its own moving meditation on Merton, solitude, sound, media, and the self.  This is the second piece that Brian has shared with Phantom Power–you may remember his Forest Listening Rooms episode. Like that episode, this is something special. We highly recommend taking a walk in the woods or finding a quiet space to listen to this beautiful meditation. And after we listen, Mack talks to Brian about what we've heard.  (And, of course, we'll have a longer version of the interview and our What's Good segment for our Patrons.) Who was Thomas Merton? Thomas Merton was an author, mystic, poet, and comparative religion scholar who lived from 1915 to 1968. It's hard to imagine a spiritual superstar quite like Merton appearing in America today. His first book, 1948's “The Seven Storey Mountain,” became a best-seller and led to a flood of young men applying to join Catholic monasteries.  Merton had a major influence on spaces such as the progressive Catholic church Mack grew up going to. He was outward facing, committed to leftist causes, and fascinated by other religions, but at the same time, he retreated from his fame into his hermitage in KY. In The New Yorker, Alan Jacobs called him “perhaps the proper patron saint of our information-saturated age, of we who live and move and have our being in social media, and then, desperate for peace and rest, withdraw into privacy and silence, only to return.” Brian Harnetty Brian Harnetty is an interdisciplinary sound artist who uses listening to foster social change. He is known for his recording projects with archives, socially engaged sound works, sound and video installations, live performances, and writings. His interdisciplinary approach has been compared to “working like a novelist…breathing new life into old chunks of sound by radically recontextualizing them” (Clive Bell, The Wire). Brian is currently a Faculty Fellow at Ohio State University's Global Arts and Humanities Discovery Theme (2022-23), Harnetty is a two-time recipient of the MAP Fund Grant (2021, 2020), and received the A Blade of Grass Fellowship for Socially Engaged Art in Contemplative Practices (2018) and the Creative Capital Performing Arts Award (2016). He has also twice received MOJO Magazine's “Underground Album of the Year” (2019, 2013). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/christian-studies

As we continue this season's theme of expanding the boundaries of our faith tradition by creating space for dialogue with our brothers and sisters deeply rooted in other spiritual traditions, we're delighted to welcome Dr. Yuria Celidwen. She will guide us in exploring contemplative practices from an Indigenous perspective.Yuria was born to Nahua and Maya indigenous lineages in the cloud forest of the highlands of Chiapas, Mexico. As a scholar, she investigates forms of contemplation and transcendent experiences from the perspective of the ancestral wisdom of Indigenous peoples. She looks into how these forms are embodied in pro-social behavior and refers to this research as the “Ethics of Belonging” to understand the world from consciousness, intention, and actions toward planetary flourishing. Her recently published book is titled Flourishing Kin: Indigenous Wisdom for Collective Wellbeing.To connect with Yuria:Follow her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yuria.celidwen/Follow her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuriacelidwen/Check out her Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/author/yuriacelidwenGet your copy of her new book: https://www.amazon.com/Flourishing-Kin-Indigenous-Foundations-Collective/dp/1649632045vTo connect further with us:Visit our website: www.contemplativeoutreach.orgFind us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prayerofconsentLike us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prayerofconsentCheck out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@prayerofconsentOr explore our Threads: https://www.threads.net/@prayerofconsentTo learn more about Father Thomas Keating's guidelines for service and principles visit www.contemplativeoutreach.org/vision.Stream and Download the Opening Minds, Opening Hearts Podcast NOW for FREE on Apple Podcast, Google, Amazon and Spotify!

DateJanuary 26, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we explore Howard Thurman's powerful concept of "Inner Authority" and what it means to truly come alive to ourselves. Through the lens of Christian mysticism and social justice, we discover how the Holy Spirit empowers us to speak truth and act boldly in the face of injustice. Thurman teaches us that spiritual formation and social transformation are inseparable – when we learn to listen deeply to the divine presence within, we find the courage to stand on holy ground and work for justice in community.ReferencesScripture: John 14:15–21About The Local ChurchFor more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org.To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

This Round Table discussion delves into the intricacies of Christian spirituality and contemplative practices, focusing on how they can foster unity among diverse faith traditions. The panelists, including radical theologian Josh Patterson (host of "(RE)Thinking Faith") and philosophy professor J. Aaron Simmons, explore the significance of personal experience in shaping one's spiritual journey and the importance of relational discipleship. The conversation highlights the varying expressions of spirituality within different denominations, such as Lutheranism and Methodism, and how these practices can transcend traditional boundaries. Guests Reverend Laura Wittman, Pastor Will Rose, and Pastor Joe Dea (host of Buddy Walk with Jesus) contribute insights on the need for authenticity and intentionality in spiritual practices. Ultimately, the discussion emphasizes that the pursuit of spiritual growth and community requires a willingness to embrace complexity and foster genuine relationships..What is the real meaning of spirituality? Is spirituality a religion or a belief? What are the 3 elements of spirituality? What is the spiritual fruit? What does it mean to bear spiritual fruit? What are spiritual gifts? What are contemplative practices in Christianity? What is the difference between Christian meditation and contemplation? What is spirituality in Christianity?.In this episode, we will:Discuss the nature of Spiritual FruitExplore the different experiences of spirituality within the broader Christian faithDeconstruct the priority given to certain kinds of spirituality within ChristendomExplain the importance of spirituality to Christians across various traditions.Check out all of the other shows in the Anazao Podcast Network:https://anazao-ministries.captivate.fm.Don't miss any of our Round Table episodes:https://player.captivate.fm/collection/af576211-7f60-4495-8b01-f3074b2f836a.Hear more from Pastor Will Rose on "The Homily":https://the-homily-with-chill-will.captivate.fm/listen.Check out Rev Laura Wittman on Systematic Geekology:https://player.captivate.fm/collection/a5e92f29-d8b1-4945-96c8-16b5bf4626c2.Check out more from TJ on Systematic Geekology:https://player.captivate.fm/collection/642da9db-496a-40f5-b212-7013d1e211e0.Listen to (RE)Thinking Faith with Josh Patterson:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rethinking-faith/id1438696524.Check out Joshua's Kingdom Hearts substack, The Kingdom Key:https://thekingdomkey.substack.com/.Check out "Camping with Kierkegaard" by Aaron Simmons:https://www.amazon.com/Camping-Kierkegaard-Faithfulness-Way-Life/dp/B0CGWYN1F1.Subscribe to Aaron Simmon's substack, Philosophy in the Wild:

These conversations with our guests this season have been a profound privilege and truly humbling experience. Together, Colleen and Mark have embraced the role of students, exploring contemplative practice and meditation from diverse perspectives, and our guest in this episode is offering us some profound insights into the wisdom of the mystics within the Christian perspective.We are honored to ‘sit at the feet' of Dr James Finley, a student of Thomas Merton and also a clinical psychologist. Jim teaches how connecting to our divine indwelling can transcend fear and shame, and awaken us to our true self. He is a faculty member at the Center of Action and Contemplation.Jim has authored numerous books, including Merton's Palace of Nowhere, The Contemplative Heart, and Christian Meditation. He also hosts the Center for Action and Contemplation's podcast, Turning to the Mystics.Join us in exploring the way contemplative practices, particularly within the Christian mystical tradition, opens us up to a unitive experience of God's presence in all aspects of life, transforming both suffering and the ordinary into expressions of extraordinary grace.Find out more about Dr. James Finley:On the CAC website: https://cac.org/about/our-teachers/james-finley/The Turning to the Mystics podcast: https://cac.org/podcast/turning-to-the-mystics/To connect further with us:Visit our website: www.contemplativeoutreach.orgFind us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prayerofconsentLike us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prayerofconsentCheck out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@prayerofconsentOr explore our Threads: https://www.threads.net/@prayerofconsentTo learn more about Father Thomas Keating's guidelines for service and principles visit www.contemplativeoutreach.org/vision. Stream and Download the Opening Minds, Opening Hearts Podcast NOW for FREE on Apple Podcast, Google, Amazon and Spotify!

In this podcast episode, David shared his harrowing near-death experience where a life vest meant to save him nearly drowned him during a violent sea storm. David described his journey into a peaceful darkness, encountering fragments of light that welcomed him as family. He recounted reliving his life during this experience, a life review where he felt the emotions of everyone he ever interacted with. Commanded by a higher entity to return to life for a purpose, David eventually found himself back in his broken body. David revisited his spiritual journey, including how Native American spirituality impacted his turbulent childhood and his life-saving confrontation with stage four lung and bone cancer. He emphasized the importance of acceptance, tolerance, inner truth, and connecting with one's spiritual essence. David also discussed his role as a spiritual healer and the significance of contemplation and mindful living. This episode provides profound insights into the interconnectedness of life, death, and spiritual awakening. About David: David Bennett enjoys the retired life of a Public Speaker, Author, Energetic Healer, and Woodworker. He's had many appearances on radio and television, including on The National Geographic Channel series The Story of God with Morgan Freeman, Dr Oz, Angels Among Us, NBC national news and PBS. David publishes articles in numerous magazines, blogs and papers.  David had three transformative experiences; in 1983 He drowned and had a Near-Death Experience while the Chief Engineer of the ocean research vessel Aloha. He experienced a second transformative experience in 1994 when in meditation in Sedona AZ, his childhood home. The third experience occurred in November 2000, when he was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer that metastasized into his spine causing its collapse. Now in remission and retired/disabled his passion includes volunteering with experiencer groups and cancer survivors to help integrate their spiritually transformative experiences. Key Points Discussed:  (00:00) - NEAR-DEATH SURVIVOR Reveals What You Were NEVER Told About Your SOULS Purpose (00:38) - Introduction to the Podcast (01:21) - Starting the Podcast with David (03:23) - David's Early Life and Spirituality (06:19) - Journey into Engineering and Diving (08:26) - The Near-Death Experience Begins (14:30) - Encounter with the Light Beings (20:08) - Returning to the Body (27:46) - Struggling with the Aftermath (28:45) - Profound Life Review (30:00) - Second Experience and Acceptance (31:53) - Battling Cancer with Inner Guidance (35:40) - Embracing Skepticism and Sharing the Story (38:24) - Understanding Our Soul's Purpose (40:19) - Living in the Moment (49:17) - Contemplative Practices and Healing (52:14) - Final Thoughts and Resources How to Contact David Bennett:dharmatalks.com www.youtube.com/@DavesDharmaTalk   About me:My Instagram: www.instagram.com/guyhlawrence/?hl=en Guy's websites:www.guylawrence.com.au www.liveinflow.co''

(Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center) Naming the tasks of the individual satipaṭṭhāna channel; psychological map of the contemplative territory. (Including some common hangups)

(Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center) Naming the tasks of the individual satipaṭṭhāna channel; psychological map of the contemplative territory. (Including some common hangups)

(Insight Meditation Society - Retreat Center) Naming the tasks of the individual satipaṭṭhāna channel; psychological map of the contemplative territory. (Including some common hangups)

Question - "How does Jhana meditation simplify experience to facilitate insight and cognitive flexibility?" John Vervaeke is joined by Mark Miller, Rick Repetti, to explore the intersection of predictive processing, relevance realization, and embodied cognition in contemplative practices. They introduce PhD candidate Jonas Mago, who discusses his research on Jhana meditation and its impact on cognitive flexibility and insight. The conversation touches on contrasting Jhana practices with charismatic Christian traditions such as speaking in tongues. They also explore how Jhana states temporarily reduce the complexity of perception, allowing practitioners to observe the construction and deconstruction of their experiential models. The neuroscientific evidence provided, such as changes in brain responses during these states, adds depth to this exploration, illustrating how such simplification can lead to profound insights. Mark Miller, a philosopher and cognitive scientist, holds a senior research fellowship at Monash University's Center for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies in Australia, with affiliations at the University of Toronto and Hokkaido University in Japan. His work, which dives into the interplay between human thought, technology's impact on well-being, and human-computer interaction, is at the forefront of integrating cognitive neuroscience with philosophical inquiry. Rick Repetti is Professor of Philosophy at Kingsborough Community College, CUNY, USA. He is the author of The Counterfactual Theory of Free Will (2010), as well as several articles on Buddhism, meditation, free will, and philosophy of religion. Jonas Mago is a cognitive neuroscientist and wellbeing aficionado, deeply invested in understanding the cognitive and neurobiological mechanisms underlying human flourishing. His research explores contemplative practices designed to cultivate wholesome states of mind—spanning meditation, prayer, collective cultural rituals, and psychedelic therapies. I approach these topics from an interdisciplinary perspective, integrating cognitive science, neurobiology, computational modeling, and phenomenology to investigate mechanisms of self-regulation and transformation. He is currently pursuing my doctoral studies in Neuroscience at McGill University under the supervision of Dr. Michael Lifshitz, with co-supervision from Prof. Dr. Karl Friston. His academic journey includes a master's degree in Mind, Language, and Embodied Cognition from the University of Edinburgh (UK) and undergraduate studies in Liberal Arts and Sciences at University College Maastricht (Netherlands). Connect with a community dedicated to self-discovery and purpose, and gain deeper insights by joining our Patreon.   Notes:  (0:00) Introduction to the Lectern. This is the beginning of The Predictive Processing Series (0:30) Mark Miller, Rick Repetti, and Jonas Mago joins John Vervaeke  (1:30) Predictive Processing and Meditation (4:00) Inside Jhanas Meditation (10:00) Phenomenology and Cognitive Functions of Jhanas (11:30) “Is Jhanas essential for the path of awakening?” (13:00) Predictive Coding and Cognitive Models (18:00) Jhana meditation and the transient nature of predictive models (25:00) Analysis of the risks and benefits associated with Jhana practice (30:00) EEG Studies on Jhana Practitioners (37:00) Jhana versus Pure Consciousness (45:00) High Arousal Contemplative States: Jhana and Christian prayer (54:00) The Importance of Context in Contemplative Practices (1:05:00) Final Words   ---  The Vervaeke Foundation is committed to advancing the scientific pursuit of wisdom and creating a significant impact on the world. Become a part of our mission.   Join Awaken to Meaning to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships.   John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon     Ideas, People, and Works Mentioned in this Episode: Predictive Processing Epistemic Vulnerability Metacognition Absorption States fMRI Studies Sangha EEG Studies Relevance Realization Embodied Cognition Jhana Meditation Thomas Metzinger Michael Lifshitz Alton Ram Dass Buddha Tanya Luhrmann Shaila Catherine Metzinger, T. (2021). The Elephant and the Blind: Insights into pure consciousness experiences. Lerman, T. (2012). When God Talks Back: A study on evangelical experiences of speaking in tongues.   Quotes:   “What we're trying in, in meditation is starting to model our predictive hierarchy of the brain opaque. So to notice that experience ultimately is not something that's, that's kind of a real grasp on reality, that all we have is this imprint of reality on our experiential or generative modeling, through this, this predictive hierarchy.”   "The interplay between micro and macro perspectives mirrors the flexibility we aim for in meditation and science."   "Epistemic vulnerability can be a doorway to growth if properly framed—or a risk without it." Mark Miller: Website | X | Podcast | YouTube Rick Repetti: Website | X | Facebook Jonas Mago: Website | X |  —   Thank you for Listening!

Will Hunter is a former monk, hermit, and wilderness therapy guide, who currently serves as the retreat director for the Earth & Spirit Center in Louisville, KY. In this episode, Will and I talk about the evolution of monastic life and how the desert or wilderness spirituality of monastic practice is possible – and even essential – for all of us, even in the midst of our built environments and our busy lives. Resources: Donate to support this podcast: https://www.earthandspiritcenter.org/donate/ Earth & Spirit Center homepage: https://www.earthandspiritcenter.org/ Will's upcoming three-week course on Wilderness Spirituality (in-person and online via Zoom): https://www.earthandspiritcenter.org/class/wilderness-spirituality/

Send us a textAs the US is in an election week, we are reminding ourselves of some helpful spiritual practicesSupport the show

Anna Robinson is a regular co-host on Nomad podcast, and the founder of LiveLight|DwellDeep. She describes herself as "a contemplative, deeply drawn to the mystics and misfits, those who feel at home in the wilderness."In this conversation, Will and Anna explore the themes of wonder, contemplative spirituality, and the journey of rediscovering a deeper connection with the divine. They discuss the importance of nurturing a sense of awe in children, the transformative power of contemplative practices, and the significance of embracing doubt and mystery in spiritual journeys. Anna shares her personal experiences with various spiritual practices and the influence of mentors in her life, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to spirituality that integrates daily life with moments of reflection and connection to nature. This episode was produced by Meeting Ground and edited by Phil McNab.Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

This week's episode explores a theme that resonates across Masonry, psychology, and contemplative traditions as we journey through the rich tapestry of Masonic teachings, uncovering the evidence based benefits of compassion and gratitude. Illustrious Brother Chuck Dunning, 33°, joins us as we unlock the transformative power of these Masonic virtues and how to make them a part of your everyday life.Show notes:Order Chuck's new book "The Mystic Tie and the Way of Oneness: Masonry's Mystical Quest for Unity, Wholeness, and Harmony"Follow the Craftsmen Online Podcast on Spotify.Subscribe to the Craftsmen Online Podcast on Apple Podcasts.Follow Craftsmen Online on YouTube, hit subscribe and get notified the next time we go LIVE with a podcast recording!Get tickets to the first New York Masonic Con, happening on January 18, 2025 at the Grand Lodge of New YorkVisit the Craftsmen Online website to learn more about our next Reading Room event, New York Masonic History and see the Lafayette Bicentennial Calendar!Get our latest announcements and important updates in your inbox with the Craftsmen Online Newsletter.Email the host, RW Michael Arce! Yes, we will read your email and may even reach out to be a guest on a future episode.Support the Craftsmen Online Podcast. Whether it's a one time donation or you become a Patreon Subscriber, we appreciate your support!Sponsor offer: Don't forget to use the promo code CRAFTSMEN to receive free shipping with your first order from Bricks Masons!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/craftsmen-online-podcast--4822031/support.

This OPTalks episode features a conversation between Dr. Yohana Junker and Rev. Dr. Aizaiah Yong exploring the intersections of art, spirituality, and decolonial studies within theological education. Reflecting on their co-teaching experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, Drs. Yong and Junker highlight the necessity of cultivating inclusive and compassionate classroom environments. The dialogue highlights how spiritual practices and artistic expression are vital tools for healing and social justice, which enable students to bring their full selves into the learning process while deepening connections. They discuss the transformative power of relationships within the context of higher education while critiquing Eurocentric individualist frameworks from their chapter, "Contemplative Practices and Acts of Resistance in Higher Education: Narratives Towards Wholeness." They also argue for a holistic approach that honors the interconnectedness of students' emotional, psychological, and vocational lives. Their collaboration as co-educators emphasizes how mutual support, compassionate listening, and convivencia foster resilience and hope in academic spaces often marked by structural violence and disconnection. Additionally, the ongoing challenges of navigating personal and collective grief while striving for justice and liberation can be met in these spaces. Dr. Junker says she, "…didn't want to just write out of like, oh, here's a spiritual practice, this is going to…help you in these ways, without sitting with the actual grief of working in institutions of higher education, working within power structures that are very asymmetrical, that have perpetrated, you know, historically so much violence against people like you and me,” to which Rev. Dr. Yong responds, “We're also confronting intergenerational trauma, historical trauma, against people, groups done in the name of religion and white supremacy.”

How can we cultivate agility and adaptivity in our chaotic, shifting times? Dr. Pam King offers a research-backed cycle of practices to incorporate into the rhythms of your daily life—helping you navigate change and work through life's obstacles. She calls them the 5 A's of Spiritual Health: Attunement, Awareness, Alignment, Activation, and Assessment.In this episode, she introduces the 5 A's, explaining the context, process, and benefits. She comments on the contemplative practices and psychological science that support this cycle of habits and offers reflections on why these simple movements can be so transformative.ANNOUNCEMENT: With & For Season 2 launches on January 6, 2025!Show NotesWith & For Producer Jill Westbrook introduces the episode“Why do we need to develop agility as a practice?”Developing agility and adaptivityWhat the 5 A's are: “a cycle of practices synthesizing, research on different contemplative practices from different spiritual traditions …. and psychological research around the efficacy or the impact of different types of spiritual practices on human well being and health.”Attuning to our bodies and physiologyWhat sensations might meanEngaging emotions, thoughts, values, actions, and behaviors that lead to a thriving lifeDealing with complexity and unpredictabilityTuning into our sources of meaning and purposeHow to cultivate more spiritual vitality and sense of purpose“At the center of thriving is adaptive growth.”“We want to be able to grow in a purposeful direction.”“Thriving is living life on purpose.”Agility allows us to balance goals, relationships, and values.AttunementAwarenessAlignmentActivationAssessment About the Thrive CenterLearn more at thethrivecenter.org.Follow us on Instagram @thrivecenterFollow us on X @thrivecenterFollow us on LinkedIn @thethrivecenter About Dr. Pam KingDr. Pam King is Executive Director the Thrive Center and is Peter L. Benson Professor of Applied Developmental Science at Fuller School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy. Follow her @drpamking. About With & ForHost: Pam KingSenior Director and Producer: Jill WestbrookOperations Manager: Lauren KimSocial Media Graphic Designer: Wren JuergensenConsulting Producer: Evan RosaSpecial thanks to the team at Fuller Studio and the Fuller School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy.

In this episode of the Your Forest podcast, host Matthew Kristoff speaks with Dr. Jason Brown, an environmental ethicist, and lecturer in religious studies, about "contemplative forestry". They explore how blending mindfulness with ecological understanding can foster a deeper connection to forests. Jason shares his journey into this unique field, emphasizing the spiritual and cultural dimensions of forestry.Dr. Jason Brown is a lecturer at Simon Fraser University, specializing in the intersection of religion, ethics, and ecology. With a background in anthropology, forestry, and ecological theology, Jason's work focuses on integrating spiritual practices into environmental management, promoting a holistic approach to forestry.Matthew and Jason discuss the concept of "contemplative forestry," which combines mindfulness with ecological practices. They explore the balance between work and contemplation, the importance of recognizing forests' intrinsic value, and how indigenous practices can inform a more reciprocal relationship with nature. The episode also touches on broader themes like climate change and the role of spirituality in environmental stewardship.Key Takeaways:Work and Contemplation Balance: Contemplative forestry integrates practical work with mindful experiences, fostering a deeper connection to nature.Contemplative Forestry: This practice views forests as living ecosystems and encourages a reciprocal relationship between humans and nature.Relational Forest Management: Inspired by indigenous practices, this approach values both the ecological and cultural roles of forests.Mindfulness in Nature: Engaging all senses in the forest promotes mindfulness and a deeper understanding of the environment.Sacredness of Nature: Recognizing the spiritual value of forests can lead to more ethical and sustainable management practices.ResourcesDr. Jason Brown's Website: https://holyscapes.org/Dr. Jason Brown's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jason.m.brown.566/Dr. Jason Brown's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holyscapes/SponsorsWest Fraser: https://www.westfraser.com/GreenLink Forestry Inc.: http://greenlinkforestry.com/Quotes:01:24:13-01:23:40- “Contemplative forestry has this sort of potential that no matter what you're doing in the forest, just do that thing right. Be present.”00:19:45- 00:19:57- "Spiritual ecology or a contemplative ecology feels motivated to protect the environment because of its deep intrinsic value and our connection to that."Timestamps:Balance Between Work and Presence (00:00:05 - 00:00:37)Connecting Spirituality and Environmental Ethics (00:20:33 - 00:21:05)The Role of Indigenous Approaches in Forestry (00:23:20 - 00:23:56)Contemplative Forestry as a Practice (00:30:43 - 00:31:12)Embracing Mystical Traditions in Understanding Forests (00:40:29 - 00:40:46)Reciprocity in Human-Forest Relationships (00:50:14 - 00:50:52)Capitalism and Contemplative Practices (00:53:13 - 00:53:39)The Need for a Revolution of Heart and Mind (00:56:29 - 00:56:55)Reinterpreting the Concept of Value in Forestry (00:59:33 - 01:02:25)Moving Away from Broad Acre Plantation Forestry (01:12:53- 01:13:13)The Role of People in Ecosystems (01:15:52 - 01:16:49)Follow YourForest Podcast on:Website: https://yourforestpodcast.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yourforestpodcast7324Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourforestpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourforestpodcast/?hl=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourforestpodcast/Twitter: https://x.com/yourforestpdcst/Email: yourforestpodcast@gmail.comIf you liked this podcast, please rate and review it on your favorite platform!

Contemplative practices have been shared across cultures and spiritual traditions for centuries. These practices encompass methods such as meditation, prayer, and mindfulness, which focus on deep reflection and awareness. Their purpose is to foster inner peace, self-awareness, and personal growth. Additionally, they help individuals cultivate resilience, manage stress, and develop emotional balance. Christa Tinari, Director of the Contemplative-Based Resilience (CBR) Project at the Garrison Institute, explains that these practices not only contribute to personal well-being but are also essential for professionals exposed to secondary or vicarious trauma, such as healthcare workers, educators, and humanitarian aid providers. Christa has been a Buddhist contemplative practitioner for nearly 30 years and has observed how contemplative and mindfulness teachers now integrate trauma awareness and resilience strategies into their teachings. This dialogue highlights the intersection between contemplative practices and the body-awareness skills taught through the Community Resiliency Model (CRM). In 2019, Christa encountered CRM while working with Emory University's Social, Emotional, and Ethical Learning (SEE Learning) program, where CRM techniques were integrated into the curriculum for both children and adults. One key realization she gained was the importance of trauma-informed approaches when introducing mindfulness practices, especially to those who have experienced trauma. CRM skills help create a safe and supportive environment, enabling individuals to benefit more fully from contemplative practices. These practices and skills work in tandem to foster not only personal but also social and systemic resilience by addressing the mental and emotional well-being of those who help others, making them more capable of sustaining their work in high-stress environments.

Contemplative practices have been shared across cultures and spiritual traditions for centuries. These practices encompass methods such as meditation, prayer, and mindfulness, which focus on deep reflection and awareness. Their purpose is to foster inner peace, self-awareness, and personal growth. Additionally, they help individuals cultivate resilience, manage stress, and develop emotional balance. Christa Tinari, Director of the Contemplative-Based Resilience (CBR) Project at the Garrison Institute, explains that these practices not only contribute to personal well-being but are also essential for professionals exposed to secondary or vicarious trauma, such as healthcare workers, educators, and humanitarian aid providers. Christa has been a Buddhist contemplative practitioner for nearly 30 years and has observed how contemplative and mindfulness teachers now integrate trauma awareness and resilience strategies into their teachings. This dialogue highlights the intersection between contemplative practices and the body-awareness skills taught through the Community Resiliency Model (CRM). In 2019, Christa encountered CRM while working with Emory University's Social, Emotional, and Ethical Learning (SEE Learning) program, where CRM techniques were integrated into the curriculum for both children and adults. One key realization she gained was the importance of trauma-informed approaches when introducing mindfulness practices, especially to those who have experienced trauma. CRM skills help create a safe and supportive environment, enabling individuals to benefit more fully from contemplative practices. These practices and skills work in tandem to foster not only personal but also social and systemic resilience by addressing the mental and emotional well-being of those who help others, making them more capable of sustaining their work in high-stress environments.

Pam King joins licensed therapist Dan Koch on his podcast, You Have Permission, for a discussion of the six facets of spiritual health.Announcement! With & For Season 2 is dropping on January 5, 2025! And until then, every Monday from September to December, we're sharing some shorter clips, practical features, and other talks or interviews featuring Dr. Pam King, to offer insight into what it means to thrive and pursue spiritual health.Show NotesWith & For Season 2 is dropping on January 5, 2024!Subscribe to Dan Koch's podcast, You Have Permission and his Patreon at patreon.com/dankochPam's research interests: positive developmental psychology and theologyHow do psychologists perceive religion, spirituality, and theology?How does spirituality and religion factor in human development?William Damon (Stanford University) on moral development in the wake of the Columbine shooting“My work has really focused on how do we offer people insight into the psychological benefits available in spirituality and religion at their best.”Youth group“What's the question I could ask that would get her thinking about the potentially harmful theology?”Purity culture at youth groupThe Thrive Center's rubric of Six Facets of Spiritual HealthWhat are the six facets of spiritual health?Transcendence and spirituality. Habits and rhythms. Relationships and community. Identity and narrative. Vocation and purpose. Ethics and virtues.“This model comes from is comes from existing research that highlights potential resources available through religious participation or being a spiritual person that can promote our well being.”How religion and spirituality buffer against mental illnessPsychological benefits of spirituality“Mechanisms of change”Benefits mediated through relationships with other people“Young people need relationships.”What is the nature of healthy spiritual community?“But increasingly, with the fragmentation of our society and our very transient and digital affiliations, we don't have the richness and the thick connections that we once did.”Polarization and culture wars and Robert Putnam's “Bowling Alone”Transcendence: ”something beyond the self”Spirituality: “experiencing and responding to transcendence”Habits and rhythms.Creativity and music“The reality is, as humans, we often find freedom with some structure.”Atomic HabitsContemplative neuroscienceFight, flight, freezeBuilt in rhythms of work and restSabbathAncient rhythms and practical wisdom that give us permission to restListen to Pam and Dan discuss facets of “Relationships and community” and “Identity and narrative” in the Patron-only second half of the conversation, available via patreon.com/dankochVocation and purpose.Teleology and Telos (end, goal, purpose)Reciprocating relationshipsPursuing purpose as an “enduring goal that is actionable”Mary Helen Immordino Yang (USC) and the default networkMeaning making“The moment that I was able to admit that I was a theological liberal was when I felt through contemplative practice directly accepted by God.”“If God exists, then I'm God's kid.”“And if there is God, and if these spiritual experiences actually correlate to something, then the clearest thing I know is I'm good. I'm loved. I'm accepted.”Ultimate transcendence and connection to divine love“Ultimately spiritual health involves an identity in which we are the beloved.”Contemplative practicesHow to make changing diapers a spiritual practice: “Oh, we got a pooper!”Directionality to narrativeEthics and virtues.Ethics as “real-world application to moral thinking.”Virtues as “building up certain regular capacities in ourselves such that we will naturally make good ethical choices.”Intercessory prayer and loving-kindness meditationHow youth approach morality in the context of community and family About the Thrive CenterLearn more at thethrivecenter.org.Follow us on Instagram @thrivecenterFollow us on X @thrivecenterFollow us on LinkedIn @thethrivecenter About Dr. Pam KingDr. Pam King is Executive Director the Thrive Center and is Peter L. Benson Professor of Applied Developmental Science at Fuller School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy. Follow her @drpamking. About With & ForHost: Pam KingSenior Director and Producer: Jill WestbrookOperations Manager: Lauren KimSocial Media Graphic Designer: Wren JuergensenConsulting Producer: Evan RosaSpecial thanks to the team at Fuller Studio and the Fuller School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy.

In this episode, Shannon K. Evans takes us on a fascinating journey through the lives and teachings of radical female mystics from history, and explores how their wisdom and practices can speak powerfully to our lives and faith today. We'll dive into topics like the importance of art and creativity, caring for the environment, mental health, and finding balance between action and contemplation. So join us as we listen to what the mystics of the past have to say to us. Shannon K. Evans is the author of the books The Mystics Would Like a Word, Feminist Prayers for My Daughter, and Rewilding Motherhood. With interest in ecofeminism, contemplative practice, and social change, Shannon leads workshops and retreats across the country that spark curiosity and compassion. She has partnered with the Jesuits of Canada and the U.S. and is a frequent contributor to Franciscan Media. Having previously lived in Indonesia for two years, Shannon loves to travel, but is happiest at home on the Iowa prairie with her family and beloved chickens. Shannon's Book:The Mystics Would Like a WordJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowAll Nations Kansas City Trainings:Register for CatalyzeRegister for CPx Support the show

Driven by a need to be seen as successful and accomplished in the eyes of others, Enneagram 3s are known for constantly “doing” and striving for recognition. However, this constant drive for achievement can lead to burnout, as they push themselves to their limits in pursuit of their goals. Today, we welcome meditation teacher and spiritual coach, Ben Katt, who shares his experience with burnout and how committing to contemplative practices such as silence, solitude, and stillness, helped him heal. These practices, which may seem counterintuitive to a Three's productivity-oriented mindset, are essential for well-being and personal growth.  Join us as we discuss the concept of midlife as a pivotal moment for reflection and explore the ritual practices that can awaken us.

In this week's episode, Brian Russell presents Avoiding the Seven Mistakes that Cause Pastors and Spiritual Leaders to Rust Out. This episode will also describe the opposite seven behaviors that promote flourishing in ministry for the long haul. Sign up for Brian's 2024 Spiritual Growth workshops: www.brianrussellphd.com/growthworkshops  . You'll receive the zoom invites and also you'll get the video replay as well as all of the tools and resources I share. Next workshops: July 24 Contemplative Practices for Busy 21st Century Pastors  (noon eastern) Aug 21 How to Be Astonished by the Word: Reading Scripture for Deep Transformation (noon eastern) Brian's Website: www.brianrussellphd.com Book Recommended by Brian: George Leonard, Mastery: The Keys to Success and Long-Term Fulfillment https://amzn.to/3tPw9lU  Brian Russell's Books Astonished by the Word: Reading Scripture for Deep Transformation https://amzn.to/3OKecg8 Centering Prayer: Sitting Quietly in God's Presence Can Change Your Life https://amzn.to/2S0AcIZ (re)Aligning with God: Reading Scripture for Church and World (Cascade): https://amzn.to/3PU5RqE Invitation: A Bible Study to Begin With (Seedbed) https://my.seedbed.com/product/onebook-invitation-by-brian-russell/  Connecting with Brian: Website: www.brianrussellphd.com Twitter: @briandrussell Instagram: @yourprofessorforlife Interested in coaching or inviting Brian to speak or teach for your community of faith or group? Email: brian@brianrussellphd.com Links to Amazon are Affiliate links. If you purchase items through these links, Amazon returns a small percentage of the sale to Brian Russell. This supports the podcast and does not increase the price of the items you may choose to buy. Thank you for your support.

Victor Koo is a familiar face in China's tech industry. In the 90s, he was president of Sohu, China's second-largest search engine. Subsequently, he founded YouKu, China's largest online video platform with 500 million monthly users (commonly called the "YouTube of China" and later sold to Alibaba). Surprisingly, his journey of scaling began to turn inwards at a tech conference in Sun Valley in 2016, when a networking conversation with a young entrepreneur soon turned towards meditation. Upon hearing that Victor had always wanted to try it, the young entrepreneur let go of the opportunity to network with others, instead guiding Victor to an hour-long meditation. That was the first hour of meditation in Victor's life, a seed that he continues to cultivate through a daily practice now spanning several years. Along the way, on a trip to Thailand, he casually walked into a breathwork course without any context. That session, led by a teacher who had survived Stage-4 terminal cancer through breathwork practice, further opened up his inner world in a striking way. "If I never believed in chakras and energy body within each of us, that session blew all of that disbelief away based on direct experience that lasted over a day." As Victor's inner journey took root, it has also decidedly altered the course of his work in the world. After transitioning from his role at Youku, Victor shifted his focus to inner-purpose-driven service and investing. In late 2016, he co-founded Tianren Culture - a social platform based out of Hong Kong that aims to promote "One Wisdom, One Health" by encouraging and enabling contemplative practices and healthy lifestyles. It focuses especially on those practices and lifestyles with roots in spiritual and natural wisdom and non-dualistic philosophies, positing that human physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health and wellness is interconnected with the health of the broader environment and ecosystem. Tianren Culture partners with foundations, NGOs, and businesses to put in place effective social innovation initiatives to improve physical wellness through overall food system transformation, as well as mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness by supporting scientific research and promoting meditation and breathwork practices. The Tianren team is actively volunteering time for Servicespace's AI-related initiatives, including CompassionGPT. Related to Tianren's work, Victor is also a board director of Good Food Fund and on the advisory board of Global Wellness Institute. Victor's exposure to multiple cultures has been formative in his journey - he was born in Hong Kong, and apart from twenty-five years in China, he has lived extensively in Australia, US, and Japan - with Japan being his current home since the pandemic. He received his BS degree from University of California, Berkeley, where he was also a Regent's scholar and MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business, where he currently serves on the Advisory Council. Victor's professional experience lies mostly at the intersection of the technology and media sectors, as well as private equity and venture capital investments. He continues to serve as Chairman of Heyi (his company that incubated Youku), which now focuses on disruptive innovation and social impact investments in areas such as health, genome, and new protein. He is also a senior advisor of Texas Pacific Group and a business advisor of DeCheng Capital. "If there was one thing I wish I had known before I started my company, it is meditation (by far!) because of the calm and equanimity that it brings you, and really helps you question the purpose of why you're doing what you're doing." It's a piece of advice that Victor can often be found paying forward now to b-school students and young founders. Join us in conversation with this founder-turned-server, as we learn more about his journey of scaling inwards, or as he loves to quote Bruce Lee, to "be like water". The call will be hosted by Xue Devand and Birju Pandya. Xue formerly founded one of the "50 most innovative companies of the world" and now currently runs The Space Between, a venture capital fund aiming to be a "sacred hospitality" company that helps inspire wealthholders to transition their consciousness from being owners of money to being the stewards of money. Birju is Chief Mindfulness Officer/Managing Director at Mobius.life, an integrated capital family office, and a long-time volunteer with Servicespace.

Oren Jay Sofer teaches meditation and communication internationally. He holds a degree in comparative religion from Columbia University and is a Certified Trainer of Nonviolent Communication. A husband and father, he's also the author of several books, including the best-seller Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication and his latest book, Your Heart Was Made for This: Contemplative Practices to Meet a World In Crisis with Courage, Integrity, and Love.Check out courses and events offered by Oren at www.orenjaysofer.com/events Connect with Oren Jay Sofer:Website: www.orenjaysofer.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OrenJaySofer/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orenjaysofer/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/orenjaysofer/ TurnKey Podcast Productions Important Links:Guest to Gold Video Series: www.TurnkeyPodcast.com/gold The Ultimate Podcast Launch Formula- www.TurnkeyPodcast.com/UPLFplusFREE workshop on how to "Be A Great Guest."Free E-Book 5 Ways to Make Money Podcasting at www.Turnkeypodcast.com/gift Ready to earn 6-figures with your podcast? See if you've got what it takes at TurnkeyPodcast.com/quizSales Training for Podcasters: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sales-training-for-podcasters/id1540644376Nice Guys on Business: http://www.niceguysonbusiness.com/subscribe/The Turnkey Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turnkey-podcast/id1485077152 Partner Links -- We use these apps and get amazing results and huge time savings too!Design tool: Canva Pro: Create Stunning Design in Minutes!Check out Headliner to create social media posts with video easily- make.headliner.appSimplecast is the easiest way to set up your podcast hosting- Simplecast.comZoom is the easiest way to schedule meetings and record your podcast interviews. Zoom.usAcuity is the easiest way to schedule your podcast interviews, meetings, and life.Acuityscheduling.com

In this episode, Sarah E. Westfall shares about belonging, identity, and community. Sarah shares her personal journey of finding belonging through vulnerability and authentic connection rather than external performance. We discuss how to cultivate belonging through contemplative practices, empathy, humility, and asking open-ended questions. We also address the challenges of loneliness and isolation, and offer tips for overcoming feelings of not belonging through small acts of connection and relationship building within existing communities. So join us as we find a path to belonging. Sarah E. Westfall is a writer, speaker, and host of the Human Together podcast. Her previous work includes serving as director of community for online writing groups and as a student development professional on college campuses. She is the author of The Way of Belonging: Reimagining Who We Are and How We Relate. Sarah lives in Indiana with her husband, Ben, and four sons. Sarah's Book:The Way of BelongingSarah's Recommendation:How to Walk Into a Room by Emily P. FreemanListen to my episode with Emily about the bookJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowSend us a Text Message.Support the Show.

Dr. Kamilah Majied is a contemplative inclusivity and equity consultant, mental health therapist, clinical educator, researcher, and internationally engaged consultant on building inclusivity and equity using meditative practices. After 15 years of teaching at Howard University, Dr. Majied joined the faculty at California State University, Monterey Bay as Professor of Social Work. She teaches clinical practice to graduate students employing psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, and artistic approaches to well-being, and authored a chapter in the second edition of Advances in Contemplative Psychotherapy, “Contemplative Practices for Assessing and Eliminating Racism in Psychotherapy.” Dr. Majied gave opening remarks at the first White House Conference of Buddhist Leaders on Climate Change and Racial Justice, where she also facilitated a dialogue on ending racism amongst the internationally represented Buddhist leadership. She is the author of the forthcoming book Joyfully Just: Black Wisdom and Buddhist Insights for Liberated Living (Sounds True, 2024). In this episode we discuss her latest work, 'Joyfully Just: Black Wisdom and Buddhist Insights for Liberated Living ,' a book that not only challenges us to rethink our approach to justice but also invites us to engage with joy as a radical act of resistance. Through this discussion, Dr. Majied shares how interdependence and Buddhist insights, when blended with Black wisdom traditions, can offer rich perspective and possibility for both justice and joy. In this conversation, we explore how language and culture play pivotal roles in shaping our approach to liberation, and how art, music and contemplative practices can nurture joy as well as help us confronting the biases of our own intuition. So dig in, and get ready to build your discomfort resilience and stoke your fierce compassion. Music credits - Blue Dot Sessions tracks: Milkwood https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/251374 10c Coffee https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/251382 Santo Apure https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/251383 Slow Rollout https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/251384 Buy the Book: https://www.kamilahmajied.com/joyfully-just

"I've found this form of prayer is a real low barrier for those of us who sometimes feel a bit weird about prayer or have lost the old pathways of prayer. Sometimes this is the only way I can pray for broad stretches of time. It connects prayer between my body and my soul well - and deep breaths are never a bad thing for any of us."-Sarah Bessey, 10 New Breath PrayersBreath Prayer is becoming an integral part of my spiritual growth practices. I've set up an "upper room" in my home as a sacred space in which "to be." I don't do " human being" well, so during a difficult medical journey, I'm revisiting an old pathway to prayer: breath prayer. As a master of "human doing," with all emphasis on doing, I'm in great need of living life at a different tempo.In today's episode, we learn how this ancient spiritual practice is deeply connected in science. Nancy S. Weins writes, "When deep trauma occurs, the well-trod paths of faith can be erased. In those situations, describing God's action as part of the most basic of human actions - breathing - can reignite an intimacy with the One, who is closer to us than our very breath."Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:Visit Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online coaching center and meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide. Learn more about my books and work: Janell RardonSupport the show: Subscribe to the Substack CommunityMake a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift InternationalLearn more about Beauty Counter and get 20% off your first order: CLEAN MAKEUP and FACE CARE.Learn more about Young Living Therapeutic-Grade Essential Oils and the Aroma Freedom Technique: HEALINGFROMTRAUMAMeet me on Instagram: @janellrardonSupport the showToday's Heartlift with Janell is currently fully supported by Heartlift International, a 501(c)3 committed to making home and family the safest, most secure place on earth. Every resource developed, every podcast recorded, and every book written has one goal: To help families become stronger every day. Learn more about Heartlift International and help support this podcast with your tax-deductible donation: https://www.janellrardon.com/heartliftinternational/

Tom Williams is a Louisville-based labor relations attorney with a deep commitment to the contemplative path, with the wild idea that a lawyer's vocation may ultimately be to serve as a healer. In this conversation, Tom shares how he puts spiritual principles and insights into action as a tireless advocate for radical compassion, restorative justice, equity, and inclusion. RESOURCES: Donate to support the Earth & Spirit Center and this podcast: https://www.earthandspiritcenter.org/donate/ Visit the Earth & Spirit Center homepage: https://www.earthandspiritcenter.org/ Learn more about Restorative Justice: https://www.voamid.org/services/restorative-justice/ Learn more about Tom's legal practice: https://www.skofirm.com/attorney/thomas-m-williams/ Compassion Games International: https://www.compassiongames.org/

In this episode, Pastor Mike shares a summary of last Sunday's discussion; high lighting the main talking points. Here, Pastor Mike shares some contemplative practices that you may consider incorporating to deepen your experience with God.Mutual Mentors is a discussion series that we'll be exploring over the next several weeks, shedding light on the various ways members of our community experience closeness with God, in hopes to equip each other with real tools to seek a deeper connection with the divine.Kindred Church is a Christian community gathering in Reno, Nevada. We are a 501c3 non-profit organization. If you believe in the ministry of Kindred Church and would like to support our efforts, visit kindredchurchreno.com/donate to make a contribution. If you'd like to join us for a gathering, please visit kindredchurchreno.com/gatherings for our location and service times.Thanks for listening.

What does it mean to have a "quiet time"? Why have we been taught to have one? What are the ways that we can purposefully put ourselves in a position to meet with God? Join me as we focus on contemplative practices that can deepen our relationship with God.    If this meant something to you, I'd love to connect. You can find me at amybphillips.com or justbelievepodcast on instagram. Subscribe for more weekly fear busting!

Join John Vervaeke and Jordan Hall on a thought-provoking journey into faith and meaning. Beyond mere intellectual debate, they delve into the heart of Christian virtues, the transformative potential of the imaginal, and the profound depths of dialogue. Through their respectful and insightful exchange, they navigate complex themes such as love, relationality, and the richness of the imaginal realm, illuminating how engagement with diverse spiritual traditions can deepen understanding and faith. John and Jordan provide actionable insights for personal and collective growth, presenting an open invitation for introspection of beliefs, fostering an environment for meaningful engagement, and unlocking the potential for true transformation. This conversation offers a unique opportunity to discover the complexities of faith and meaning, along with pathways to enrich spiritual and intellectual lives.   Jordan Hall, a pioneering figure at the forefront of societal transformation, co-founded MP3.com and DivX, catalyzing revolutions in music and online video. His ventures, such as Neurohacker Collective and Civium Project, harness cutting-edge technology and deep philosophical insights to address the metacrisis facing humanity. Currently, as Executive Chairman of Qualia Lifesciences, he leads efforts in human optimization, embodying the ethos of the fellowship of the spirit and inspiring profound dialogues on reimagining the future. Glossary of Terms   Dialogos: A form of dialogue aimed at transcending mere conversation to reach deeper understanding and connection. Imaginal: Pertaining to a mode of perception that transcends the purely sensory, engaging with symbols and the deeper aspects of reality. Christian Virtues: Fundamental qualities valued in Christianity, such as faith, hope, and love.   John Vervaeke: Website: https://johnvervaeke.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@johnvervaeke  Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke   X: https://twitter.com/vervaeke_john   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VervaekeJohn/   Jordan Hall YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMzT-mdCqoyEv_-YZVtE7MQ  Medium: https://medium.com/deep-code  X: https://twitter.com/jgreenhall?lang=en Join our new Patreon https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke   The Vervaeke Foundation - https://vervaekefoundation.org/   Awaken to Meaning - https://awakentomeaning.com/ Books, Articles, Videos, and Publications Mere Christianity - C. S. Lewis https://www.amazon.com/Mere-Christianity-C-S-Lewis/dp/0060652926 The Courage to Be - Paul Tillich https://www.amazon.com/Courage-Be-Paul-Tillich/dp/0300084714 Heart of Darkness - Joseph Conrad https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Darkness-Joseph-Conrad/dp/1936594145 Boden, Margaret. (2009). Creativity in a nutshell. Think. 5. 83-96. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/209436199_Creativity_in_a_nutshell The Psychological Drivers of the Metacrisis John Vervaeke, Iain McGilchrist, Daniel Schmachtenberger https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7i1ughRGcQ Embodiment and the Metacrisis with Rafe Kelley https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVJztMRSeek&t=307s Quotes    "Make ourselves vehicles and instruments, both. That's something that's capable both of holding and expressing. So, I am the life and the light, and I am the way. Not the destination, not the end of the journey, but the way."​​ - Jordan Hall [00:44:11]   "The invitation to take up your cross and bear it, to step through the crucifixion of the human nature, must, in fact, be voluntarily self-crucified, and human will must surrender itself into a sort of a divine coupling. That's the stepping through of the win-lose into the win-win."​​ - Jordan Hall [01:20:00]   Chapters    00:03:00 - Christian Virtues and the Imaginal: A Journey into Spiritual Depth 00:20:00 - The Power of Transformative Dialogue: Unity and Deepening Faith 00:28:00 - Bridging Divides: The Quest for Global Unity and Transcendent Communication 00:52:00 - Faith's Duality: Wholesomeness Versus Completeness 01:05:00 - Encountering Sacredness: Reflections on Faith and Community 01:24:20 - Upcoming Dialogue: Non-Rivalrous Christianity, Religio, and the Fellowship of the Spirit  

Lama Tsultrim Allione is the bestselling author of Women of Wisdom, Feeding Your Demons and Wisdom Rising Journey into the Mandala of the Empowered Feminine. She was the first American to become a Tibetan Buddhist nun in 1970 in India and Nepal, returning to the USA. She later disrobed and became a widely known Buddhist teacher. She was has written about women and Buddhism particularly in the Tibetan tradition and has been outspoken about issues of patriarchy and the need for the presence of the feminine and women in Buddhism. Her bestselling book Feeding Your Demons has been the subject of several scientific studies and has been proven effective for depression, anxiety and addiction. Lama Tsultrim is the founder of Tara Mandala, a 700-acre retreat center  near Pagosa Springs, Colorado. In 2007 she was recognized in Tibet as the emanation of the renowned 11th-century Tibetan yogini, Machig Labdrön. She received the “Outstanding Woman in Buddhism” award in 2009 in Bangkok, Thailand.https://www.taramandala.org/about/lama-tsultrim-allione/bio/_______________________________________________________PATREON / GIFT - Please support the show by joining our East Forest COUNCIL on Patreon.  Monthly Council, live-streams, demos, and more. NEW ALBUM OUT NOW - "Music For The Deck of the Titanic - Deluxe Edition" - LISTEN / BUYhttps://eastforest.orgUPCOMING LIVE - http://eastforest.org/ticketsMarch 20-24 - Treefort Music Fest / Yogafort, Boise, IDApr 4-7 - Summit at Sea, International WatersJune 18-July 1 - Esalen Institute Retreat, Big Sur CACOMMUNITY - join at EastForest.orgMUSIC by East Forest: Spotify / AppleMEDITATIONS by East Forest on Spotify & AppleSHOP: http://eastforest.storeConnect with the Forest - Mothership: http://eastforest.orgIG:  @eastforest | FB/TT/YT:  @eastforestmusic

Learn about contemplative practices for medical providers offered by the NY Zen Center for Contemplative Care. My guest Koshin Paley Ellison is an author, Zen teacher, and Jungian psychotherapist. He co-founded the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care, which offers contemplative approaches to care through education, personal caregiving, and Zen practice. Koshin is also… Continue reading Ep. 444 Contemplative Practices for Death and Grief with Sensei Koshin Paley Ellison

In this episode of Voices with Vervaeke, philosopher and cognitive scientist Mark Miller joins John Vervaeke and Rick Repetti for a fascinating discussion on the connections between philosophy, science, and contemplative practice. Mark provides insight into his work as a 'synthetic philosopher', integrating diverse fields like neuroscience and Buddhism to create theoretical frameworks for understanding the mind and contemplation. The conversation explores whether there can or should be a 'philosophy of meditation', and how science and philosophy might contribute to human flourishing and contemplative development. Mark shares rich examples of how computational models and cognitive science can elucidate contemplative skills and states, providing nuance to traditional teachings. He emphasizes the importance of balance between insight practices and compassion cultivation on the contemplative path.   Mark Miller, a philosopher and cognitive scientist, holds a senior research fellowship at Monash University's Center for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies in Australia, with affiliations at the University of Toronto and Hokkaido University in Japan. His work, which delves into the interplay between human thought, technology's impact on well-being, and human-computer interaction, is at the forefront of integrating cognitive neuroscience with philosophical inquiry.   Glossary of Terms   Predictive Processing: A cognitive science theory that suggests the brain continuously makes predictions about the environment based on past experiences. Synthetic Philosophy: An interdisciplinary approach that integrates insights from various fields to develop comprehensive frameworks for understanding complex phenomena. Contemplative Science: A field of study that investigates the effects of meditation and contemplative practices on the mind and well-being.   John Vervaeke: Website: https://johnvervaeke.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@johnvervaeke  Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke   X: https://twitter.com/vervaeke_john   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VervaekeJohn/   Rick Repetti: Website: https://www.rickrepetti.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickrepetti/  X: https://twitter.com/rickrepetti  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philosophicalpractitioner/   Mark Miller: The Contemplative Science Podcast: https://www.thecontemplativescientists.com/ Website: https://www.markdmiller.live/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaYjSup-Hp3V9P6MGt2zPuA X: https://twitter.com/predictivelife Join our new Patreon https://www.patreon.com/johnvervaeke   The Vervaeke Foundation - https://vervaekefoundation.org/   Awaken to Meaning - https://awakentomeaning.com/   Books, Articles, and Publications   Routledge Handbook on the Philosophy of Meditation - Rick Repetti  https://www.amazon.com/Routledge-Handbook-Philosophy-Meditation-Repetti/dp/036764746X Why I Am Not a Buddhist - Evan Thompson https://www.amazon.com/Why-I-Am-Not-Buddhist/dp/0300264674   Quotes   “Meditation is philosophy. It's not about relaxing, and it's certainly not about just creating weird psychedelic states so that we can blow our minds and talk about it. Meditation is a way of knowing ourselves, knowing our situation, and then flourishing through that special knowing.” - Mark Miller [00:16:42]   "Don't under appreciate the value of love for your training. If you're listening to this, and you're contemplative, and you're tuning in now to help your practice, don't overlook it. It's valuable at the beginning, in the middle, in the end - like even a small amount of loving kindness and kindness practice now is going to make all the difference." - Mark Miller [00:56:00]   Chapters   [00:00:00] Introduction  [00:06:00] - Mark Miller's Journey in Contemplative Science [00:14:00] - Meditation's Role in Philosophy and Contemplation [00:17:00] - Synthetic Philosophy and Contemplative Science [00:23:00] -  Bridging Science, Philosophy and Contemplative Practice  [00:30:00]  - Blending Philosophy and Cognitive Science in Contemplative Practice  [00:47:00] -  Exploring Deep Belief Structures and Skillful Engagement [00:55:00] - Concluding Thoughts  

Dr. Richard Davidson is the William James and Vilas Professor of Psychology and Psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and Founder & Director of the Center for Healthy Minds.  In this episode, he discusses the current state of research on mindfulness and meditation as mental health interventions.00:00 Introduction02:15 Focus areas in current research04:37 Well-being as a universal intervention06:21 Beyond mindfulness: other forms of meditation 07:24 Four pillars of well-being: awareness, connection, insight, and purpose13:04 Healthy Minds Program and the impact of short daily meditation practices17:05 Comparison of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and the Healthy Minds Program, focusing on accessibility and time commitment20:55 The potential for structural changes in the brain with meditation26:24 Integrating mindfulness and meditation into clinical practice28:06 Micro-supports for everyday well-being33:27 Mindfulness and social connection35:06 Future research directions, including the concept of a flourishing cityVisit our website for more insights on psychiatry.Podcast producer: Jon Earle

Scott continues his discussion of the connection between contemplative practices and wellbeing, focussing on how an essential aspect of each is listening.  

What role does contemplative practice play in meeting a world in crisis? Oren Jay Sofer outlines practical ways that we can cultivate mindfulness, resolve, wonder, and empathy to build resilience, love, and strength that can transform our world.

Oren teaches Buddhist meditation, mindfulness, and communication internationally.  He is the author of several books, including the bestselling Say What You Mean:  A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication (2018) and his latest work, Your Heart Was Made for This:  Contemplative Practices for Meeting a World in Crisis with Courage, Integrity, and Love (2023) which is the focus of this podcast. Lama Rod Owens states that Oren's work "offers a beautiful and poignant invitation to meet the crises of our current world and communities with the power or contemplative practice, which helps us to acknowledge the pain that we are all experiencing and reveals how we can respond directly with awareness and tenderness."   For more information and to connect with Oren and his teachings, please see: https://www.orenjaysofer.com/ https://www.instagram.com/orenjaysofer https://www.facebook.com/OrenJaySofer/ This podcast is available on your favorite podcast platform, or here:  https://endoftheroad.libsyn.com/episode-281-oren-jay-sofer-contemplative-practicedharmayour-heart-was-made-for-this Have a blessed weekend!

How to Support the Show! - Head on over to patreon.com/21stcenturyvitalism and become a member. - Follow us on Instagram or Facebook - Subscribe on YouTube - Implement any of the topics covered on the show and write me about your experience! This weeks conversation is with Buddhist scholar, author, and photographer, Andy Karr. As a former student of the legendary meditation master, Chogyam Trungpa; Andy has gone on to share the teachings of the Buddha all across the world. From cofounding the first Shambhala center in Paris to teaching at the Gampo Abbey Monastery College, Andy is most known for his well articulated teachings on Contemplative practice and dharma art. His newest book, 'Into The Mirror' released in the Spring of 2023 and serves as a foundation to the themes covered in this show.  andykarrauthor.com SHOW TOPICS - What is a Contemplative Practice? - Different Methods of Contemplation - The Issue with Getting Caught In Concepts - Spiritual Materialism - Limitations of Materialism - What is Samsara? - The Three Vehicles to Liberation - The Outer and Inner Journeys - Different Approaches to Contemplating Emptiness - Letting Go of Self Cherishing - Stages of Compassion - The Paramitas

Immerse yourself in the captivating tale of Clementine Moss, a rock and roll drummer turned shamanic practitioner, who embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery. As she explores the healing power of the drum, she uncovers a surprising twist that intertwines music and spirituality in ways she never imagined. Witness her profound realization as she harnesses the ancient magic of the drum to find joy, compassion, and profound self-expression. In this episode, you will be able to: Explore the integration of music and spirituality to unlock a deeper connection with yourself and the world around you. Harness the healing power of the drum to release stress, promote relaxation, and restore balance to your mind, body, and spirit. Experience personal empowerment through depth hypnosis techniques combined with the rhythmic meditation of drumming. Uncover the wisdom of your ancestral lineage and tap into past lives through the transformative practice of drumming. Immerse yourself in a captivating memoir that combines the art of drumming and meditation to inspire personal growth and self-expression. Get ready to be inspired by Clementine Moss. Clementine is not your average musician. As the founder and drummer of Zaparella, she brings her unique blend of hard rock energy and contemplative practice to the stage. But that's not all - Clementine is also a spiritual counselor and non-denominational minister, using modalities like depth hypnosis and applied shamanism to guide others on their healing journeys. Her book, "From Bonham to Buddha and back: The slow enlightenment of the Hard rock drummer," delves into the profound connection between music and spirituality. With her wealth of knowledge and experience, Clementine is here to share her insights on the healing power of the drum, the integration of music and meditation, and so much more. Prepare to be captivated by her wisdom and passion as we explore the transformative potential of music with Clementine. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:17 - Introduction 00:01:08 - Diverse Interests and Modalities 00:05:12 - The Power of Drumming 00:09:37 - Balancing Hard Rock and Contemplative Practice 00:13:34 - Drumming from Joy 00:17:41 - Opening Hearts and Working with Clients 00:19:00 - Traditional Shamanic Techniques and Empowerment 00:21:08 - Moving Away from Intermediaries and Reclaiming Personal Power 00:22:59 - Ancestral Lineage and Past Lives Resources: Share this episode with anyone in your life who would be interested in it. Help spread the light by sharing high vibe content. Subscribe to the Meditation Conversation podcast and rate and review it. Your support helps the show grow. Explore Clementine Moss's book From Bonham to Buddha and back: The slow enlightenment of the Hard rock drummer to learn more about her journey and the connection between contemplative practice and being in the world.  Consider trying shamanic drumming for a unique and powerful healing experience. Look for local drum circles or workshops. Dive deeper into meditation by practicing Vipassana meditation. Explore insights into your mind and observe without reacting. Connect with your own joy and find the place of infinite stamina within you. Drum from that place and experience effortless expression. Embrace a centered mindset as you move through the world. Feel everything fully but understand that emotions are temporary and can pass through you without attachment.

Each solstice and equinox Contemplify offers a public Lo-Fi & Hushed contemplative practice session for both free and supporting subscribers of the Non-Required Reading List. For those interested, go tell it on the mountain… The third week of Advent salted on joy. Not because of the circumstances, but despite them. The work remains to create the conditions for the gift of joy to emerge. The candlelight had built around the Advent wreath and solstice was breaking into a light jog. The arms of Advent and winter solstice were outstretched, reaching towards embrace. We were so close to completing the circle. Our own sweet darkness yields in a protected and patient trust. Let us welcome the gift. Wendell Berry's “To Know the Dark” was the vessel for the Winter Solstice Lo-Fi & Hushed Practice Session. You can follow the link to peek at the entire poem. Welcome this dark knowing into practice. May we show up with expectation under its seamless cloak. Advent rejoices within the crackles of reality. Let us slow our pace to hear this joyful song. visit contemplify.com

Perhaps upon first glance, when the terror of the world is breathing down our necks, we refuse to see how capable we are of meeting it. Perhaps we think, our hearts were not made to contend with the immensity of what's happening- the chaos the sensory input, the imminent threat of climate change, or the video footage of the atrocities happening around the world in Israel and beyond. And yet, we are equipped with an incredible potential for compassion and resilience - to grow and learn from challenge, and to biologically, neurologically, and spiritually, adapt and change to meet the times we are living in. My Guest, Oren Jay Sofer, believes that every one of us can transform and grow, even in the midst of the heartbreak. In his new book Your Heart Was Made for This: Contemplative Practices for Meeting a World in Crisis with Courage, Integrity, and Love , Oren reveals how we can tap into our full capacity for peace and goodness by cultivating a practice day by day with tiny steps and many other revelations for living in this time of extreme chaos and change. "I like to think of the human organism as an instrument," he says. "And this whole journey I invite readers on is about how well you know how to play your instrument. Can you hit the notes of compassion and joy and generosity and gratitude and energy and integrity?” In this episode he walks us through where to start exploring the amazing capacities that we have as human beings- not as a blueprint but to develop the resources inside so that we can each play the role we're uniquely called to play. Key points discussed in this episode include: * The importance of keeping our hearts open during painful and uncertain times * The inspiration behind Oren's latest book, Your Heart Was Made for This * An exploration of contemplative practice and its role in reflecting upon meaning and purpose in life * Various forms that contemplative practice can take for diverse individuals * The healing power of letting go, and the practice of renunciation * The interconnection between inner personal transformation and larger societal changes * The critical role of forgiveness in finding inner peace and restoration Oren Jay Sofer teaches meditation and communication internationally. He holds a degree in comparative religion from Columbia University and is a Certified Trainer of Nonviolent Communication. He's also the author of several books, including the best-seller Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication and his latest book, Your Heart Was Made for This: Contemplative Practices to Meet a World In Crisis with Courage, Integrity, and Love. A husband and a father, Oren lives in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he enjoys cooking, spending time in nature, and home woodworking projects. Special Guest: Oren Jay Sofer.