Religion and Spirituality Archives • Heather Lyn Mann

#MeditationPractice for the #SacredEcologist

December 6, 2013 by heatherlynmann

Through the ages, wise ones handed down two forms of meditation: active and selective. In active meditation, we sit in an upright way, calm our body, and place attention on the inflow and outflow of our breath. Here we meet our wandering mind. The "practice" of active mediation involves 1)…

How #SacredActivists can Transform the #ClimateChange Debate

October 16, 2013 by heatherlynmann

Environmental conflicts like climate change are ready for a more peaceful discourse, one shaped by an awareness of brotherhood and sisterhood. Sacred activists and other ethical and spiritual leaders can dedicate themselves to cultivating a more equitable terrain for decision-making by calling for kindness, adding diversity to the community of…

#GovernmentShutDown? Activate #Happiness

October 4, 2013 by heatherlynmann

Yes, the government shut down, our prisons are past capacity, the climate overheats, and guns proliferate. Society is a mess. But, I will not let my unhappiness--my anger, fear, and sadness--add to the sorrows of those around me. I will live a life of sacred activism, healing the world by…

#RadicalTransformation for #EnvironmentalActivists and #Buddhist Practitioners

October 2, 2013 by heatherlynmann

Each of us--as children of Mother Earth--can benefit from a spiritual relationship with the natural world. Countless studies disclose the mental and physical benefits that emerge from time in nature. But two groups are especially ripe to have that relationship be intentional and radically transformative: environmental activists and Buddhist practitioners.…

60 Seconds with #ThichNhatHanh

October 1, 2013 by heatherlynmann

[wpvideo vndkPbcD] I spent last week on retreat with my root teacher--Thich Nhat Hanh (Thay)--at Magnolia Grove Monastery in Mississippi. We practiced mindfulness as we walked, sat, and ate. We woke to the truth of inter-being. Here we are in the meadow enjoying tea and breathing together in the company…

Six Steps Toward Living in #PlanetaryHarmony

September 14, 2013 by heatherlynmann

1. Vision--Imagine all beings holding Earth in sacred trust. 2. Skill--Learn more about planetary suffering and sustainable healing actions. 3. Wisdom--Join others in identifying the way for individuals and society to avoid suffering. 4. Action--Water the seeds of happiness by touching and healing wounds within your reach. 5. Gratitude--Honor that…

Mother Earth’s Prayer

June 1, 2013 by heatherlynmann

Meaning no sacrilege, I offer this prayer to help us honor and awaken to the primacy of sacred creation. Mother Earth's Prayer Our Planet, beneath our feet, Hallowed be thy name. Nature’s Order abounds, Nature’s Laws govern all, On earth and in society’s relationships and systems. Give us this day…

Flight

May 29, 2013 by heatherlynmann

Dizzy the mind caught in a Sangha of Cormorants In formation on wing just inches above the sea Swarming my body one-hundred fold. Primal wisdom urges me to jump To take my place in the V To act in community. But these arms are too slow. Duty and longing evaporate…

Heather Lyn Mann