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Earthen Zen

Zen Buddhism

Water, Weeping & Emotional Regulation through the Grieving Process

Also known as a natural antidote to counter-balance and tame other elemental emotions, water symbolizes compassion, healing, purity, impermanence, strength, flow, and emotions. In many cultures, water is considered to be a powerful source of cleansing and purification in body and mind. With the above said, the act of shedding tears is one of the ways in which the body can cleanse itself from pent-up trauma. Unfortunately, often crying is seen as a sign of weakness, however, many people are unaware of the power tears hold.

Communal Healing: How the Grieving Process Connects Community

Communal Healing: How the Grieving Process Connects Community.

Grief is an inherent part of the human experience, transcending cultural boundaries and affecting individuals and communities alike. In many societies, the process of healing from loss is deeply intertwined with communal support, offering solace, strength, and a shared space to navigate the intricate journey of grief. This article explores the significance of communal healing, focusing on the isiXhosa and isiZulu peoples of South Africa, as well as the ancient Dagara way of grieving in West Africa.

Journeying through Eons: Intergenerational Healing – The Ancestral Connection

By engaging in the process of intergenerational healing, we break free from the cycles of pain and suffering that have been perpetuated across time. As we delve into the depths of our ancestral lineage, we uncover hidden narratives and unhealed wounds that have shaped our existence. Through this exploration, we develop a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of our experiences with those of our ancestors. With awareness as our guiding force, we can consciously choose to release the burdens that no longer serve us and transform the energy of ancestral wounds. By embracing this transformative path, we not only reclaim our own lives but also contribute to the collective healing and evolution of our lineage.

Meditate on your DNA – Predispositions & Epigenetics.

Nature would be the genes – what has been passed down from previous generations. Nurturing is how one feeds or starves these genes. In one’s external world, pollutants, chemical exposure, diet and personal lifestyle choices encourage positive changes and impact on the epigenome. Your holistic choices in the form of dietary changes, increased exercise, stress reduction through meditation, and habitual changes, big or small, can determine which path your health takes.

Diving into Dreams: Different Types of Dreams and their Benefit

Dreams are a fascinating aspect of human consciousness. They occur during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep and can provide valuable insights into our subconscious mind. Dreams encompass a wide range of experiences, from pleasant fantasies to terrifying nightmares. They hold a significant place in various cultures and have been the subject of study and interpretation throughout history.

Integration after Kensho: How Daily Practices and Community Help

In the realm of spiritual awakening, Kensho represents a profound moment of realization and transcendence. However, the true journey begins after this transformative experience. Integrating Kensho into our daily lives becomes crucial to align our newfound insights with our actions, relationships, and overall well-being. This article explores the changes that occur after Kensho, the significance of integration, and how daily practices and community support aid in this process.

After Enlightenment, the Laundry – the Zen Experience

Enlightenment, a state of profound spiritual awakening, has been sought after by individuals across different cultures and religions throughout history. In Zen philosophy, enlightenment holds a special place, often portrayed as a transcendent experience that brings about profound transformation. However, the Zen masters teach us that the journey doesn’t end with enlightenment but rather continues into the fabric of everyday life. This article explores the concept of “After Enlightenment, the Laundry” and how mundane tasks can become a Zen experience.

Experiencing Depression? How Meditation can help.

There are many different forms of depression ranging from chronic mild depression to more severe major depressive disorders like manic depression or bipolar disorder.

Although the exact causes of depression are not known, there are three components that are known to contribute to its development. Factors include chemical or hormone imbalance, genetics and trauma.