Mindfulness Meditation · Intention
This week’s meditation session is led by Kimberly Brown and the theme is Intention. The guided meditation begins at 08:28.
Kaumari; Nepal; 17th or 18th century; Gilt copper alloy with semiprecious stone inlays; 15 1/4 × 10 1/2 × 4 in.; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art; C2006.44.1
This sculpture from the Kathmandu Valley depicts the goddess Kaumari, who is known for assisting Durga in her fight with a demon. Portrayed here as youthful and full of vigor, Kaumari stands in an agile position, ready to leap into action. Kaumari’s intention to protect her devotees is evident from her posture. She is sprinkling libations from a cup, which signifies bestowing blessings.
This sculpture is a remarkable example of repoussé, a technique in which three-dimensional forms are hammered from a flat sheet of copper. Along with lost-wax casting, it is one of the two metalworking techniques for which Newari craftsmen are famous. As we gaze upon Kaumari, let’s recommit to acting with greater intention and conscious awareness.
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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