Dharma
Dharma is often translated as “truth.” Its Sanskrit root dhr- means “to hold” or “to support,” related to the Latin firmus (firm, stable). Dharma, then, points to what is established and enduring—the truth of how things are, right now, both seen and unseen.
Living in alignment with Dharma means embodying presence: a grounded belly, a compassionate heart, a clear mind, and connection to the unmanifest, timeless nature of reality. This connection—to our True Nature—is what the Dharma calls awakening.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness has become a mainstream concept, which is a positive cultural shift. But it’s only one piece of a larger path. In the Buddhist tradition, mindfulness is the first of the Seven Factors of Awakening, followed by investigation, energy, joy, tranquility, concentration, and equanimity.
Mindfulness is intentional awareness—observing one’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors with clarity. It lays the groundwork for understanding how we relate to the world and ourselves. It’s a key step in the journey toward inner freedom.
Mindfulness doesn’t require stillness or silence. It can be woven into everyday life—by noticing how we’re affected by experiences, how we respond, and what our reactions reveal. In this way, we engage in a lived process of growth, evolution, and becoming a more skillful human being.
Meditation
From the perspective of the Buddhadharma, meditation includes two core aspects:
- Shamatha (Pali: Samatha) – cultivating steady, one-pointed attention by focusing on a single object, without falling into distraction, dullness, or restlessness.
- Vipashyana (Pali: Vipassana) – resting in open, spacious awareness, including all experience as it arises.
These practices support one another, like the front and back foot in walking. Whether secular or sacred, a meditation practice is served by these two aspects of practice. Together, they form the foundation for awakening to our True Nature and a more informed and easeful life. Consistent, devoted practice is key.
My Path
My spiritual path draws from Yoga, Buddhism, and Taoism. I began studying Yoga in 1998, discovered the Buddha Dharma in 2000, and began exploring Taoist philosophy in 2010. I'm particularly drawn to Tantric Buddhism, the Taoist roots of Yin Yoga, the classical teachings of Hatha Yoga, and the teachings on non-duality in general.
The teachings that guide me are simple, though not easy:
- Life includes difficulty and pain. Rather than resist this truth, I allow it to open compassion—for myself and others. We’re not alone in this human experience, even when it feels that way.
- Everything rises and falls. Nothing lasts. Everything we love will change or end. Facing the truth of impermanence encourages me to cherish what’s here and live fully while I can. I let myself feel the heartbreak of loss, honoring it as part of being alive.
- We can all awaken. Each of us has the capacity to recognize our True Nature. When we stop identifying with thoughts and emotions and begin to unlearn old patterns, we taste the innate freedom already within us. Fighting or fleeing from reality obscures that freedom. Meeting it honestly reveals it.
- Practice and community are essential. Meditation, mindfulness, and connection with others on the path are what sustain this way of living. None of us do it alone.
Connection
If you’re looking for guidance in beginning or deepening your meditation practice, or seeking community and support, please reach out. I’m happy to connect.
Lineage
I stand on the shoulders of my teachers and the ancient lineages that have passed down these practices. Their support is a treasure and a foundation I hold with deep gratitude. Spiritual friends and guides are among the great jewels of this life—and essential for growth and awakening.
Deepest bows to...
