beginners mind – Diary of a Pilgrim

A View As Vast As Space

“Although my view is as vast as space, when comes to the nature of actions and their consequences, I am extremely precise, like little particles of flour.” (Or sand.) ~Guru Rinpoche

A different perspective

Sometimes it’s good to look at things from a different perspective…

Attitude of gratitude and Thanksgiving resolution

Though I rarely celebrate Thanksgiving anymore– I’ve lived in Asia for over 10 years now– I love the spirit behind this day of thanks. There is a powerful message to be learned here. This message was brought to me loud and clear this past few weeks, which have presented quite a few obstacles. Now, IContinue reading “Attitude of gratitude and Thanksgiving resolution”

To do or not to do

Here’s the big lesson I’ve learned in the past month: Relaxing is the key to doing anything. I didn’t set out to learn this lesson. I set out on an adventure with a friend, to take some time out and rest on one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand. We rented a small houseContinue reading “To do or not to do”

How to Practice Meditation

These days, you see references to sitting meditation everywhere. People sell cars now sitting in lotus posture, eyes closed with wind gently tousling their hair. It’s enough to make you gag. But if you truly want to learn to meditate, check out this practical guide to learn to meditate from one of Tibet’s great yogis,Continue reading “How to Practice Meditation”

Ashtanga Yoga for Beginner’s Mind

Finally. Ashtanga Yoga for Beginner’s Mind is available as an Ebook on Amazon! Ashtanga for Beginners is a guide to the practice of the primary series with a section on shamatha meditation and commentary on how each practice informs the other. While the book is appropriate for all levels of students and gives instruction at theContinue reading “Ashtanga Yoga for Beginner’s Mind”

Beginners Mind for Yogis

Here’s the honest to god truth: after over twenty years of devoted (bordering on obsessive) yoga and meditation practice, I am amazed at how much time I still spend criticizing myself, judging others and wanting things to be different than they are. Wanting things, in general. Or, not wanting things. Being mad at how ourContinue reading “Beginners Mind for Yogis”