This day-long seminar led by B. Alan Wallace explores in theory and practice three different methods for developing meditative quiescence, or shamatha: mindfulness of the breath as taught in the Theravada tradition (an effective approach to soothing the body and calming the discursive mind); “settling the mind in its natural state” (an approach pertinent to Dzogchen practice); and “shamatha without signs” – as taught by Padmasambhava.
The achievement of shamatha is widely regarded in Buddhism as an indispensible foundation for the cultivation of contemplative insight (vipashyana). This seminar consists of lectures, guided meditations, and discussion periods.
2 Disc DVD set
Disc 1: 2hr 34 min
Disc 2: 2hr 39 min
Recorded on August 30, 2008 at the Unity Church of Santa Barbara, CA.
