Although initially my daily meditation was secular, it eventually lead me to Buddhism and evolved into a spiritual practice. If I had to name its most challenging part, it would be following the five precepts. For example, a non-monastic life inadvertently leads to occasional alcohol use, white lies, and other morally questionable choices (no one … Read more
Just watching a dog or a cat can be a deeply healing experience. It takes us out of our mind and brings us into the now — the only place free of chains of the past and unknown void of the future. That’s where an animal lives all the time, surrendered to life, enjoying it … Read more
For a very long time, I had a hard time accepting that I was too critical of myself. Even when I noticed negative thoughts during meditation, I saw them as justified. Especially when it came to running this blog. Of course, I told myself, you’re not disciplined enough, not consistent enough, not creative enough. What … Read more
Have you read a Zen story about a cold-hearted monk? Writing about how Buddhist monks resist sexual temptation reminded me of a beautiful story from 101 Zen Koans. It’s titled “No Loving-Kindness,” a reference to a meditation technique that you can try right now by reading our in-depth article. Returning to the story, listen to … Read more