Lighting the incense.

I meditate in the style of Shambhala teachings from Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche. Check out his book Shambhala: The Path of the Warrior. Also I love Pema Chodron, one of his students. She is American and a Buddhist nun. She has written many wonderful books. Caryl

It doesn't really surprise me, I suppose, that so few individuals come here. The quiet resounds. Too much openness can feel overwhelming. My practice is not strong these days. I feel the need to build it up, but there's almost some part of me that refuses to give permission for me to recommence my sitting. Shallow breaths, monkey mind thoughts, and resistance, resistance, resistance. Anyone else struggle in this way? I feel the need for a retreat, but can't work one in right now. Maybe a mini home-retreat would be a creative alternative.... I hope that others come. I invite correspondence. Joanna

Its so easy to wrap my self in everyday concerns that meditation takes the back seat. I've been ill the last few days and I think part of it is because my body is telling me to relax. During the holidays I would try to calm my mind but it was hard. Now I remember my body is as important as my mind. Last night I used some meditative music and was finally able to completely let go. Is there some part of your meditation routine missing?. Sometimes its a simple thing needed to get you back into the place you need. I too feel the need for a spiritual retreat but in the mean time will search for the retreat within. Betty