Meditation

I’ve written more about yoga than meditation, but both have been vital for my well-being over the years. Yoga was an easier path for me at first as an active person, since it’s hard for me to sit still (and I could do it at the gym!). I’m using “meditation” here rather than Buddhism because to me it implies putting that system of beliefs into practice.

Lately I keep returning to meditation as a refuge, and I feel compelled to try some longer retreats in a few traditions over the coming months. A teacher friend told me the advice to “stop dabbling” and commit to one style really advanced their practice. I totally intend to do that, right after I explore a few more!

I went to a couple of workshops living in NYC, but my practice really developed at the Shambhala Center and Insight Meditation groups in Boulder. I enjoyed the Shambhala Center’s open-hearted vibe and structured training pathway, but felt burned learning about the controversy there after volunteering to help with a few retreats. I loved the Insight Meditation Community of Colorado (IMCC) because I could sit in a chair and the teachings were very approachable. It also led me to the Insight Meditation group Open Door Sangha in Santa Barbara and some other wonderful retreats in the Theravada lineage with Thai monks at American Buddhist Meditation Temple in Goleta. Walking meditation in the garden there was a game changer!

Here in Humboldt I am grateful for Ancient Forest Sangha, a Thich Nhat Hanh / Plum Village group at the Humboldt Unitarian Universalist Fellowship (HUUF). I also attend Arcata Zen Group. I’m not sure when I’ll finally stop dabbling and settle into one of these traditions, but I’m sure that will become clear over time.

Recently I attended a very supportive orientation retreat at Shasta Abbey. I originally learned about the monastery through Marsha Linehan’s writing and I have attended online retreats there in the past, but it was great to finally experience it in person. I felt so healthy meditating throughout the day and working outside together with the community there.

I’m exploring the idea of longer residential practice in the coming months where that is an option at monasteries like Great Vow and Abhayagiri. I am conflicted because I also feel called to learn more about permaculture, while another part of me wants to apply myself in a new role working on climate tech. I don’t know whether these retreats will be part of a transition toward a new phase of my career or a longer monastic chapter. Please stay tuned here so we can share that journey together!