Introduction to Chapter 2: Opening Reflections + Short Readings
Welcome to Chapter 2 of The Heart of Wisdom!
In this chapter, we’ll take a deeper dive into Yin Meditation and how this approach aligns with the awakening of contemplative wisdom.
My main intention in this chapter is to link the Buddha’s teachings on wisdom to the qualities of awareness that develop in Yin Meditation. Specifically we’ll be exploring in theory and in practice how Yin Meditation develops into Yin Samatha-Vipasana Bhavana, or the cultivation of calm clarity.
Here are the main Practice Themes in this chapter:
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- The Path of Insight. This is a path of cultivating wisdom and compassion; it is not a path of chasing states.
- Samatha-Vipassana. In order to really “see things clearly” the lens of our awareness needs to possess the lucidity of still water, and that comes about through nurturing calm clarity in your practice. In theory and in practice, we’ll be exploring how relaxation and receptivity in Qi Gong, Yin Yoga and Yin Meditation support the cultivation of calm clarity.
- Practice + Consistency. I have tried to keep the teachings as simple as possible in this chapter so as to support a clarity of intention when you practice. Later lessons will explore some of the deeper implications of what “clear seeing” entails, and in order for one to experientially understand these teachings, practice is essential. Please try to commit to thirty minutes of Yin Yoga/Qi Gong/Sitting per day. Your future self will thank you!
- Questions. Please email (josh@joshsummers.net) any questions for the live Zoom session on October 16th.
- Zoom Link. Time: Oct 16, 2022 09:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
- Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85437651708?pwd=dUFrQ2NEVDB0SkMyeXQxbjY4bW9qZz09
- Meeting ID: 854 3765 1708 | Passcode: 950605
May the sincerity of your practice flower into the insight born of calm clarity.
With metta (friendliness),
Josh
Course readings.
Pages 50-57 in Mindfulness Manual
Pages 2-24 in Foundations of Mindfulness