The Corpse Meditation

How many of you are going to die?

I know, I know, it's a silly question. We're ALL going to die. But, there's one problem. We don't give it enough thought.

There is something called the "Corpse Meditation" in Buddhist tradition, and it's very powerful. Have you heard of it? I'm going to refer you to the following article for some insight:
http://washingtontimes.com/world/20050103-123230-5077r.htm

Basically, it is a reflection on "attachment", in this case, attachment to the physical body. At first glance, it's unpleasant; after all the decay of the body after death is not something we like to think about. Its purpose is to make us aware of how precious and wonderful our life is - and seeing its impermanence, we learn to honor the absoluteness of each moment.

Find a comfortable position, and quiet the mind. Focus on your breathing, to slow it down, and center yourself. Then, visualize the nine stages of decomposition - of YOUR body, not someone else's, and not an animal's corpse.

1.) My corpse is bloated, blue and festering.
2.) My corspe is crawling with insects and worm. Crows tear it apart, consuming it.
3.) All that is left is a skeleton, with some flesh and some blood.
4.) All that is left is a skeleton, with some blood stains.
5.) All that is left is a skeleton, with no blood stains.
6.) All that is left is a collection of scattered bones.
7.) All that is left is a collection of bleached bones.
8.) All that is left is a collection of dried bones.
9.) No bones. Only dust.

Try the corpse meditation. Work with accepting the impermanence of life, and find yourself richer, more peaceful, more mindful.

Love!
Kim

Thanksgiving...and Giving Thanks!

Here it is, Monday, of Thanksgiving week in the U.S. I spent part of the morning completing a Gratitude Meditation, which reminded me of how much I have to be grateful for.

On the top of the list, of course, is "opportunity". Everyday, there are new opportunities:

• to be more physically fit through exercise
• to be more kind to everyone you meet
• to be more productive
• to be more purposeful

Today, I'm commited to a CrossFit workout. Have you heard of CrossFit? Check it out at www.crossfit.com. It's absolutely the best thing ever!

I've got my "to-do" list by my side, and now I can "check off" one of the things on the list: writing to you!

I'm also grateful for something else: the opportunity to write more articles on death rituals for the Internet and print magazines. I've been given the chance to write six more articles for one publisher - and I'm so excited. I'll keep you posted on the fruits of my labors.

Until next week then - make it a great one. A great day. A great week, and great holiday weekend!

Love,

Kim