In this week’s Weekend Reader newsletter, LionsRoar.com’s Sam Littlefair goes back to the basics of Buddhism.
Welcome to the Realm of the Perpetual Beginner
Each Friday, we share three topical longreads in our Weekend Reader newsletter. This week, LionsRoar.com editorial director Rod Meade Sperry reflects on his many years as a beginning meditator.
A Beginner’s Mind for Business
The classic Zen concept of “beginner’s mind” is finding popularity in American business circles. Minh Do looks at what that means for Buddhism.
How to Meditate Every Day
Diana Winston on committing to meditation. Featuring her “Ten Suggestions for Having a Regular Daily Practice Even if You Would Rather Be Thrown into a Shark-Infested Ocean.”
Beginner’s Mind or Imposter Syndrome?
As a young, female Zen teacher, Gesshin Greenwood struggles to find the line between humility and self-criticism.
What Is Your Body?
It’s less than we think. It’s far more than we know. It’s who we are but it’s not. Contemplate the deeper reality of the body.
How to Cultivate Your Beginner’s Mind
Beginner’s mind is open, curious, and unbound by concepts and opinions—just like the mind of the buddhas. Ezra Bayda has some techniques you can use to cultivate the fresh mind of the beginner.
The Beginner’s Mind of Scientist Sir Roger Penrose
Rev. Tony Stultz on the brilliant mind who models a rich exchange between Buddhism and scientific thought — for the benefit of all beings.
Taking the Practice Seriously
Jill S. Schneiderman responds to James Atlas’ “Buddhists’ Delight” piece in the New York Times, his first encounter with Buddhist meditation.
Dukkha Explained
Toni Bernhard discusses suffering as it is understood in Buddhism. She introduces three kinds of dukkha and then a helpful practice for working with these.