Moving into Meditation

May 19, 2014
Yoga and meditation teacher Cushman presents a detailed, step-by-step plan for tapping into the mind/body/spirit connection with this 12-week program. Cushman emphasizes the importance of making meditation and asana a seamless practice; she offers an array of techniques to tune into the body and breath in ways that complement, enhance, and deepen the asana practice. While noting that the fusion and integration of yoga asana with Buddhist meditation has become more common, she observes the need for guidance. In each chapter (or week) she presents a component of her program, such as “Exploring Your Body in Action,” “Cultivating Your Breath,” or “Taking Your Seat” (in which the author dives deeply into the art of seated meditation) along with specific practices. Cushman includes helpful resource suggestions at the end of each chapter, as well as audio and video links. The author provides clear, precise instructions, but also weaves into her text lyrical prose and colorful anecdotes from her own life and the lives of other teachers and students. Practitioners of all levels will find this to be a rich companion volume, though it will speak most profoundly to those who already have some knowledge of yoga and meditation. Line drawings. Agent: Agent: Lisa Bankoff, ICM.

July 1, 2014

Cushman (Enlightenment for Idiots) created a "systematic program designed for yoga practitioners of all levels who want to deepen their practice of physical postures and breathing techniques to support, express, and include the ancient art of mindfulness meditation." Based on the author's work with students at Spirit Rock Meditation Center in Woodacre, CA, the program is a beautiful blend of insight meditation and classical yoga. Each week of the program has a theme with a series of practices to work on, and the program builds upon itself as it progresses, culminating with experiencing life joyfully. The author teaches how each week's theme can be integrated into asana practice, seated meditation, and daily life. Her kindness and sense of humor make connecting with one's intuitive wisdom a delightful journey. Each chapter provides a few suggested resources for exploration of the week's theme. This reading list alone will keep readers occupied for months, if not years--it is a treasure trove of resources. In addition, many of the practices in the book are available via downloadable audio or video. VERDICT An excellent guide for patrons seeking to deepen their yoga practice through mindfulness meditation.--Julia A. Watson, Marywood Univ. Lib., Scranton, PA

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