The Paradox of Identity: An Introduction to Contemplative Psychology
With Miriam Hall and Naoko
Sunday, August 11, 11AM- 1:00 PM MDT
In this Karuna Live, we will play with the paradox of identity. On one level, all of our identities matter. However, on the level of our common humanity, our differences don’t matter. The paradox is to hold both these understandings at the same time.
This introduction to contemplative psychology will consider: How can we not get stuck in either way of looking at identity? How do we bridge this paradox for ourselves and with each other? What does any of this have to do with liberation?
Through movement, meditation, discussion and a practice called Body, Speech, and Mind, we will explore the paradox of identity together.
In the Karuna Live session, Participants will learn:
What to Expect:
In Karuna Training
In Karuna Training, we find strength in the intrinsic openness, wisdom, and compassion that is available to us as human beings. In this 90-minute Karuna Live introductory session, we will have time to reflect and discuss how we can draw on our innate wisdom as a resource in an ongoing way. The program is open to everyone and will include guided meditation, an experience of the Karuna teachings, and a discussion of upcoming Karuna Training offerings.
The word Karuna means compassion in Sanskrit. Karuna Training brings together a community of people who trust the world’s wisdom to awaken our compassionate hearts. We can learn to resource ourselves and integrate our experiences to live a more empowered life. The world needs all our compassion, health, and wisdom.
For 29 years, Karuna Training has offered time-tested mindfulness and compassion-based programs in Europe and North America.
A cohort is forming for the next Karuna Training program starting in fall, 2024, for which Naoko and Miriam are both core faculty.
Bios
Miriam Hall is on the core faculty for Karuna Training. She has twenty years of experience engaging with others through classes and coaching, all based in mindfulness and contemplative practices. She offers programs in writing, photography, social engagement, meditation, and psychology, often combined together. She always loves to visit the edge when engaging in community and find ways to hold ourselves and each other while growing.
Naoko is on the core faculty for Karuna Training. She grew up as a Buddhist in Japan but began a formal meditation practice in 2007. She is committed to creating and holding space for collective liberation and has been facilitating a group called Racial Justice & Dharma which she finds the most challenging and rewarding work.