Theme: Mindfulness
Printed on a faded sketch of the meditational deity Chakrasamvara, this image contains the actual footprints of the prominent 13th century Tibetan teacher Drigungpa Jikten Sumgon. These footprints are suppose to contain the essence of Drigungpa Jikten Sumgon and it is said that in his absence, a devotee can read teachings next to the prints and it will be the same as receiving the teachings from Drigungpa himself. The footprints also reference some of the earliest depictions of the historical Buddha who for the first 500 years of the religion was only depicted in an iconic forms including a set of footprints. Lastly, the image of footprints reminds us to take those first steps on the path mindfulness (our theme for the day) and to remain steady in our practice.
Image credit: Footprints of Drigungpa Jikten Sumgon (1143–1217), Tibet; ca. 1200; Pigments on cloth; Rubin Museum of Art, C2003.7.1 (HAR 65205)
Mindfulness Meditation Series
Himalayan practitioners have, for centuries, used meditation to quiet the mind, open the heart, calm the nervous system, and increase one’s ability to focus. Now, western scientists, business leaders, and the secular world have embraced meditation as a vital tool for brain health. Learn more
Presented in partnership with Sharon Salzberg and the New York Insight Meditation Center.
About the Teacher
“Each of us has a genuine capacity for love, forgiveness, wisdom and compassion. Meditation awakens these qualities so that we can discover for ourselves the unique happiness that is our birthright.
— Sharon Salzberg
Sharon Salzberg is cofounder of the Insight Meditation Society (IMS) in Barre, Massachusetts. She has been a student of meditation since 1971, guiding meditation retreats worldwide since 1974. Sharon’s latest book is Real Happiness At Work: Meditations for Accomplishment, Achievement, and Peace, published by Workman Publishing. She is a weekly columnist for On Being, a regular contributor to The Huffington Post and is also the author of several other books including the New York Times Best Seller, Real Happiness: The Power of Meditation: A 28-Day Program (2010), Love Your Enemies (2013), Faith: Trusting Your Own Deepest Experience (2002), and Lovingkindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness (1995). For more information please visit: www.SharonSalzberg.com.