Mindfulness Meditation · Discernment
This week’s meditation session is led by Lavina Shamdasani and the theme is Discernment. The guided meditation begins at 14:00.
Akashagarbha; Tibet; 19th century; Pigments on cloth; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art; C2003.11.2
This vibrant Tibetan scroll used in meditation practices (thangka), features the bodhisattva Akashagarbha, who is associated with the element of space. He is typically portrayed with blue skin which denotes the wisdom of infinity.
Akashagarbha is one of the Eight Great Bodhisattvas, each of whom represents an aspect of enlightenment. He embodies the Buddha’s blessings and is invoked by practitioners seeking purification from transgressions.
One of the most unique characteristics of this painting is the presence of a flying mystic, which is a theme throughout Buddhist literature. The levitating monk glides through the air with outstretched arms evoking freedom. When we develop a strong sense of discernment and are able to pierce through illusion, we become limitless, like the monk soaring through the air.
Lavina Shamdasani is a certified compassion teacher through the Compassion Institute and Stanford University. She has taught programs focused on mindfulness, compassion, joy, and gratitude and led book club discussions and meditations for over five years.
Lavina studied positive psychology coaching at the Wholebeing Institute and helps clients transform their lives and meet their personal and professional goals.
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