December 31 – Welcome!

Dear Friends,

Thank you for choosing to be part of this January email offering. This marks the tenth year of this tradition, and I am continually inspired by the teachings and by the knowledge that you are here with me on this shared journey.

This month, we will be exploring the factor of energy, or effort, as one of the seven factors of awakening. Together, we will delve into how energy supports persistence, resilience, and deepening our practice.

Here’s a glimpse of what to expect:

• Thursdays and Mondays: Teaching quotes on the theme.
• Fridays and Tuesdays: Poems or reflections.
• Saturdays and Wednesdays: Practice days, including a suggested guided meditation.
• Sundays: Cultivating heart practices to nourish and support us.

Our journey begins tomorrow with setting intentions. From there, we’ll dive into various facets of energy and effort, exploring how they show up in our lives and practice.

This year’s teachings draw inspiration from Joseph Goldstein’s Satipatthana Sutta Series (particularly parts 29 and 46) and his book, Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Awakening (primarily chapters 27 and 43).

You are also warmly invited to join me for Wednesday evening practices on January 1, 8, and 15, either in person or online. These sessions will include meditation practice and reflections on the month’s themes. Details on how to join can be found on the Saskatoon Insight Meditation Community website.

All emails will be archived on this blog:
https://www.grzesina.net/meditation/
I invite you to share your thoughts and feedback by commenting on the posts or replying directly to the emails. I will do my best to respond to you.

Stay tuned for tomorrow’s first email as we set our intentions for this month of practice and exploration.

With warmest wishes,
Andrea Grzesina
andrea@grzesina.net