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; 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 taught meditation and spiritual practice for many years. She is a speaker and author whose most recent book, Presence: The Art of Being At Home in Yourself, was published by Shambhala Publications in 2024. Tracy is the founder and leading teacher of the Hudson River Sangha and has taught mindfulness and mindful writing at New York Insight, the Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art, and many other venues. In addition to serving as the editorial director of the acclaimed spiritual quarterly Parabola, her writings have appeared in The New York Times, New York Magazine, Psychology Today, The Best Spiritual Writing series, Parabola, and many other publications and anthologies. For more about Tracy, please visit tracycochran.org and parabola.org.
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