The Rubin is transforming. Read important updates from our Executive Director.
close-button

About the Meditation

Meditation session led by Tracy Cochran.

The guided meditation begins at 14:38.

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

Whether you’re a beginner, a dabbler, or a skilled meditator seeking the company of others, join expert teachers in a forty-five-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 twenty-minute meditation session, and a closing discussion.

This program is supported in part by the Hemera Foundation with thanks to our presenting partners Sharon Salzberg, the Interdependence Project, and Parabola Magazine.

Related Artwork

Mahasiddha Jalandhara; Tibet; ca. 16th century; Copper alloy; Rubin Museum of Art; C2003.13.4 (HAR 65218)
Mahasiddha Jalandhara; Tibet; ca. 16th century; Copper alloy; Rubin Museum of Art; C2003.13.4 (HAR 65218)

Theme: Openness

Legendary men and women called mahasiddhas, or great spiritually accomplished ones, are considered to be among the first teachers of Tantric Buddhist practices. Usually of ordinary occupations, such as wandering monk, weaver, or farmer, they are often depicted in various yogic positions, flying or dancing, wearing little or no clothing, drinking alcohol, and consorting with members of the opposite sex. In their wide variety and unconventional behavior the mahasiddhas exemplify Tantric Buddhist practices, which offer many paths to realization. They are celebrated as real people who embodied enlightenment through Tantric practice.

The Indian siddha depicted here in an active posture is known for his many yogic feats. It is said that he could manifest his body in many places at the same time and live in many bodily forms in widely disparate lands simultaneously.

About the Speaker

Tracy Cochran has been a student and teacher of meditation and spiritual practice for decades. She is the founder of the Hudson River Sangha, which is now virtual and is open to all. The link for her weekly meditations can be found on tracycochran.org.

Tracy has taught mindfulness meditation and mindful writing at the Rubin and the New York Insight Meditation Center, as well as in schools, corporations, and other venues worldwide. She is also a writer and the editorial director of Parabola, an acclaimed quarterly magazine that seeks to bring timeless spiritual wisdom to the burning questions of the day. Her writings, podcasts, and other details can be found on her website and on parabola.org.

zoom