Mindfulness Meditation · Openness
This week’s meditation session is led by Tracy Cochran and the theme is Openness. The guided meditation begins at 14:38.
Mahasiddha Jalandhara; Tibet; ca. 16th century; Copper alloy; 9 1/2 × 5 3/4 × 3 3/4 in. (estimated); Rubin Museum of Art; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art; C2003.13.4
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.
Tracy Cochran has been a student and teacher of meditation and spiritual practice for decades. She is the founder of the Hudson River Sangha. In addition to offering meditation online, Tracy has taught mindfulness meditation and mindful writing at the Rubin Museum 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.
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