When I hear the word “radical” used in the context of personal change —whether a book, a course, a workshop — I generally pass it by. It’s so overused and overblown, I’ve come to mistrust it. But in the past few months, I’d heard a number of smart, curious, level-headed people mention Tara Brach’s book, Radical Acceptance: Embracing Your Life With the Heart of a Buddha. Among the trove of very wise and helpful ideas, I especially love this passage about saying yes, perfection, self-comparison and….biscuits.
Read MoreMoment of Zen: Auguste Rodin’s Instruction
These words from the famous sculptor’s book Cathedrals of France are such good counsel for visiting a museum or a gallery or a cathedral. For life really, and any part of the day.
Read MoreCandide Thovex Skis Everything But Snow (With Zen View)
We didn’t know that skiing without snow is possible until we saw Candide Thovex traverse the globe in this magical, thrilling, uplifting two minutes, with unexpected lessons in Zen.
Read MoreAllen Ginsberg’s Distracted Tai Chi Meditation + House Tour
(Video link here.) Tai Chi is not only a martial art but a form of moving meditation, where the practioner is meant to be “present” and aware of each move. Like all forms of meditation, that part is difficult; the mind loves to wander. In 1984, the great poet Allen Ginsberg wrote a poem about himself practicing tai chi…
Read MoreMorning poem
A favorite poem by Japanese poet Shiki, from one of our favorite morning reads Zen Art for Meditation, accompanied by an image by the great photographer Hiroshi Sugimoto. Can you see the blue?…
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