Mindfulness Meditation

A meditation session led by Sharon Salzberg.

Himalayan practitioners have, for centuries, used meditation to quiet the mind, open the heart, calm the nervous system, and increase one’s ability to focus. Now, western scientists, business leaders, and the secular world have embraced meditation as a vital tool for brain health.

Whether you’re a brand-new beginner, a dabbler, or a skilled meditator seeking the company of others, join expert teachers in a 45-minute weekly program designed to fit into your lunch break. Each session will be inspired by a different work of art from the Rubin Museum’s collection, and will include an opening talk, a 20-minute sitting session, and a closing discussion. Chairs will be provided.

Presented in partnership with Sharon Salzberg & the New York Insight Meditation Center.

Related Artwork

Theme: Love
Often described as a specific form of Avalokiteshvara, Amogapasha Lokesvhara from 17th century Tibet sits in a pose of royal ease with the right hand extended in a gift giving gesture while his left hand placed in front of his heart holding a lotus flower. The name “Amogapasha” means “unfailing lasso or noose” and refers to his endless love that actively lifts up beings and brings them closer to their enlightenment. According to Sonam Tsemo, a 12th century Tibetan Scholar, Amogpasha is the “created body” of Avalokiteshvara which manifests itself in time and space. Amogpasha is the form of Avalokiteshvara that beings from this world can experience and through his loving kindness receive relief from their suffering.

About the Teacher

“Each of us has a genuine capacity for love, forgiveness, wisdom and compassion. Meditation awakens these qualities so that we can discover for ourselves the unique happiness that is our birthright.” — Sharon Salzberg

Sharon Salzberg, cofounder of the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Massachusetts, has been a student of meditation since 1971, and guiding meditation retreats worldwide since 1974. Sharon’s latest book is Real Happiness At Work: Meditations for Accomplishment, Achievement, and Peace. She is weekly columnist for On being, a regular contributor to The Huffington Post and is also the author of several other books including the New York Times best-seller, Real Happiness: The Power of Meditation: A 28-Day Program, Love Your Enemies, Faith: Trusting Your Own Deepest Experience, and Lovingkindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness. Sharon has been a regular participant in the Rubin’s many on-stage conversations. This is her first formal meditation session at the museum. For more information, please visit SharonSalzberg.com