What exactly do I mean by the contemplative life, anyway?
Well, it is a lifestyle specifically designed to cultivate awareness, insight and compassion for oneself and others by slowing down, simplifying, and exploring one's inner depths. It is a way of being that is fundamentally radical and transformative. Contemplative practices include meditation, in all its various forms, but also encompass a wide range of other disciplines, to include mind-body practices, art, and reflection.
I currently find myself drawn to the spiritual purification practices of Buddhism. The entire Buddhist path can be regarded, in a way, as an extended lesson on the contemplative life. The most vigorous training, of course, is that of a monastic. However, I not yet ready to retreat into a Buddhist monastery.....but I am seriously interested in pursuing deep and rigorous spiritual growth as a layperson. So, how can I live a radically spiritual life without becoming a monastic? Well, that is my project.....
'Monastic' Rules
I decided to begin by coming up with some practices to follow. I wanted to be as hard-core as possible, to really explore the possibilities....I expect these to be a work in progress.....
1) Spiritual practices
-Keep the Buddhist 5 precepts (pañca-sila)
-Meditate one hour in the morning
-Read some dhamma daily
-Yoga practice
-Reflect on the day before bed
-Do an evening inventory of the ten unwholesome actions (akusala-kammapatha)
2) Sunday uposatha day
-Reserve Sunday for a day of silence, meditation, solitude, and reflection
-Keep the Buddhist 8 precepts (attha sila)
-Meditate for at least 4 hrs
-Study at least four suttas
-Study and discuss dhamma with other practitioners
3) Asceticism
-Only buy new stuff when absolutely necessary (buy used clothing, books, furniture)
-Eat vegan
As I continue to explore these and other practices, I will share my journey. I welcome any comments, ideas, thoughts, and advice. :)
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| One of my favorite organizations, The Center for Contemplative Mind in Society, has created a great Tree of Contemplative Practices to visually depict the plethora of practices included. |
