There are a myriad of meditation techniques geared toward various ends. At Sage Mountain Center we encourage the two most basic foundational ones: Sitting Meditation and Meditative Awareness.

Sitting Meditation or “just sitting” is a disciplined examination of being. This simple yet profound practice is free of ritual and compliments any religious or non-religious practice. During sitting meditation one explores humanity and all creation in the form of ourselves. This practice is not necessarily for self-improvement, but to befriend who we already are, to embrace all that is, moment to moment. This practice of being present, of learning not to escape or judge, allows us to develop an acceptance of reality. Compassion arises in the deepest sense when we recognize that we are not separate from that which is around us.

The second form of meditation encouraged at Sage Mountain Center is Meditative Awareness. This form of meditation is done all the time: in the shower, driving, walking in the forest or on the Labyrinth, playing with the kids, shopping, or any other activity. It involves being aware of one’s thoughts, feelings and emotions in a non-judgmental manner. We observe ourselves as if listening to another’s conversation or watching somebody else live their life. Meditative awareness reveals the conditioned patterns which contribute to inner conflict, fear, and suffering. The activities of daily living are all we need to be fully awake, fully alive humans. The ordinary activities of daily life are used to stimulate spiritual growth and a sincere concern for others.

The freedom of meditative awareness coupled with the discipline of sitting meditation provides the foundation by which balance and equilibrium are discovered.