Buddhism

Buddhism is an evolving mythic tapestry that weaves many different (often opposing) thoughts, practices, people and insights together. Its rich history has kept practices and insights alive for thousands of years and it includes a lot of very helpful tools and concepts; however, some of its teachings are a bit outdated at best and riddled with shadows and misperceptions at worst.

Some of its core philosophies – everything being Buddha Nature, practicing for the benefit of all beings, the importance of contemplative practice, acceptance, a combination of rationalism and mysticism – describe some of the deepest truths of the nature of the Universe and these places are where my experiences and content is emulating from. I have experienced a deepening of some of these qualities and the outcome is a more refined inclusion of embodiment and the soul realm. Another turning of the wheel.

This way of practicing doesn’t involve turning away from or disowning our darkness, but being radically accepting towards it; integrating these aspects of ourselves so they don’t get lost in shadows, fear and projection. Freeing ourselves from the self-consciousness, pain and ignorance that these unintegrated parts create and becoming fuller, more whole human beings, who can see and feel things clearly.

When the soul realm is integrated into our understanding of the world, we can notice how the collective story is evolving and the metaphors and concepts that we use to relate to experience are changing alongside this. This also relates to Buddhism itself.

With this in mind, here is my updated understanding of some classic Buddhist tools and concepts; a modern and inclusive update to some of the deepest metaphors for experience, life and practice.