Mindfulness Meditation · Reawaken
This week’s meditation session is led by Tracy Cochran and the theme is Reawaken. The guided meditation begins at 12:06.
Green Tara; Tibet; 13th century; Brass with inlays of silver; 18 1/2 × 12 1/2 × 9 5/8 in. (estimated); Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art; C2005.16.30
Tara is a completely enlightened Buddha, who has promised to appear in the future in the form of a female bodhisattva and deity for the benefit of all beings. Tara typically appears in the form of a radiant young woman. The green form of Tara is known for bestowing protection from the Eight Fears. She helps us to overcome internal and external states of turmoil. Tara is beloved in all schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
This 13th-century work of art is a remarkable example of early Tibetan sculpture. Its distinguishing features include the proportionally large head, the distinctive hoop earrings, and the subtle sense of motion of the figure. Early Tibetan sculptures such as this one were strongly influenced by Indian art.
Green Tara embodies compassionate action and the willingness to embrace all beings without judgment. Her 10-syllable mantra—Om Tare Tuttare Ture Svaha—is memorized and recited by Tibetans from early childhood. Reciting this mantra with devotion strengthens our connection to Tara, bestows us with protection, and helps us accrue merit.
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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