Nonduality, dependent arising, and other Buddhist teachings can help us realize the interconnection between ourselves and nature and enhance our outdoor experience. With a blending of classroom discussion and time outside, we will explore ways of attending to our senses, calming our minds, and thereby becoming open to and nourished by what is around us. To support this shift from ego-driven doing to spirit-filled being, we will draw from Dōgen’s instructions to pour ourselves into the action at hand (gūjin) and realize how things presence themselves (genjō) just as they are in their suchness (Skt. tathatā). Outdoor activities will include walking moderately steep trails, so please bring sturdy walking shoes, as well as rain gear. The course will try to accommodate all abilities by offering a range of outdoor practices. Participants are encouraged, but not required, to read Meditations on the Trail: A Guidebook for Self-Discovery before the program.
Program Format: This program will consist of guided meditations (both indoors and outside), walks on BCBS trails, short presentations, discussions, solo time outside, and other activities.