What Are Our Emotions Telling Us?

It’s very human to avoid unpleasant experiences. When it comes to emotions, there are some unpleasant ones that we really prefer not to have anything to do with. Typically labeled as “negative emotions,” they are difficult feelings such as shame, jealousy, disappointment, sadness, and anger. We avoid those emotions in subtle and not-so-subtle ways, sometimesContinue reading “What Are Our Emotions Telling Us?”

Mindfulness & Self-care

Self-care is an important part of wellness. Many of us take care of others (humans, animals, plants), but do we take the time to take care of ourselves? And what does that self-care look like? When we take care of someone, we are ultimately giving them our attention. In fact, one might even argue thatContinue reading “Mindfulness & Self-care”

What is the Place of No Thought?

Zen Master Dahui talked about the place “where the road of words and speech ends” (言語道斷) and “where the domain of mental activity disappears” (心行處滅). Meditation is connecting with that place through immediate experience – What’s right in front you, right now? Mindfulness is letting go of thinking and judgment, and returning to the mindContinue reading “What is the Place of No Thought?”

How Do I Live an Authentic Life?

We all desire to live a life that is open, one in which each moment is imbued with freshness and aliveness. Zen Master Wumen said, “The great way has no gate.” Great way means a life that is completely wide open. And similarly, Zen Master Sengcan said, “The great way is not difficult,  just don’tContinue reading “How Do I Live an Authentic Life?”