Mindfulness Meditation · Awakening
This week’s meditation session is led by Kimberly Brown and the theme is Awakening. The guided meditation begins at 08:06.
Lotus Goddess, Lakshmi; Nepal; 17th century; Wood with pigments and gilt repoussé; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art, Formerly of Joe Gelpey Collection; C2008.1a-b
This intricately carved wooden sculpture portrays Lakshmi as a lotus goddess. Lakshmi is a goddess of wealth who is often associated with lotuses. Lotus flowers grow immediately after the monsoon season. They blossom in autumn when rice is being harvested. Thus, lotuses are associated with abundance and the harvest.
The lotus flower has a significant symbolic meaning in Hindu and Buddhist practices. Lotuses grow out of muddy, murky water and emerge as beautiful flowers. This serves as a metaphor for our own process of transformation. It speaks to our ability to transcend arduous circumstances.
Lakshmi’s throne and tiara, along with the pedestal that she rests upon, are adorned with lotuses. The motif of the lotus in this sculpture of Lakshmi is a potent visual reminder of our potential to blossom and flourish despite difficult situations.
Kimberly Brown is a meditation teacher and author. She leads classes and retreats that emphasize the power of compassion and kindness meditation to reconnect us to ourselves and others. She studies in both the Tibetan and Insight schools of Buddhism and is a certified mindfulness instructor. Her latest book is Happy Relationships: 25 Buddhist Practices to Transform Your Connection with Your Partner, Family, and Friends. You can learn more about Kimberly at meditationwithheart.com.
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