Source: Mountain Phoenix Over Tibet
The Animal Realm
10 Worlds Teaching Series
Join us on April 17 for an online talk by Dr. Larry Ward, poet, dharma teacher and acclaimed author of America’s Racial Karma.
We have a remarkable relationship of play and work with animals, but we also have the tendency, especially here in the western world, to romanticize animals. The Buddhist tradition points to a different understanding of animals: a realm and a state of mind driven by instinct. When we find ourselves in the the animal realm, we leap to our instinct and are driven to drive. If we practice well within this realm, we provide a powerful foundation for the wellness of the human to rise. Our mindfulness practice puts us back in touch with the miracle of being an animal and to apply our instinctive energies for the better of the world.
This talk is a part of our year long teaching series on the Buddhist story of The 10 Worlds, ten different yet interconnected states of mind that we all inhabit. They are fluid and impermanent. All ten are existential realities with their own moods, characteristics and inquiries. No matter the realm, each one invites us on a quest to learn more about ourselves, to build our capacity to adapt to the challenges we face, and to help relieve the suffering of all beings through breaking free from the cycle of samsara.
Event also includes: Guided meditation, gentle movement exercises, poetry and practice invitations.
Wednesday, April 17
4:00–5:30 pm PST | 7:00–8:30 pm EST
Online via Zoom
Recording: Shared with members and everyone who registers. Attend live for the deepest transmission of the teachings.
Members: You do not need to register for this event. We will email you the Zoom link the day before.
Cost: This event is offered at a sliding scale. Please choose the price that works for you. For the most value, consider purchasing a membership for as little as $20/month to join every month’s meditation, talk, and more.
Dr. Larry Ward (he/him)
Larry is co-founder of the Lotus Institute, author of America's Racial Karma: An Invitation to Heal and a senior Dharma teacher ordained in the Plum Village tradition. Dr. Ward holds a PhD in Religious Studies with an emphasis on Buddhism and the neuroscience of meditation. As a teacher, Larry interweaves insights with personal stories and resounding clarity that express his Dharma name, “True Great Sound.”