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Consciousness & Interdependence (Part 1)
In this talk, Michael explores the Buddhist and Yogic perceptions of consciousness as well as how the mind and senses function to form a sense of self. These talks are part of a series on the psychology of yoga and
Mindfulness & Intimacy (Part 2)
In this talk Michael continues to present his approach to spiritual practice with grounded psychological insight into key practices of both the yogic and Buddhist traditions. These talks are part of a series on the psychology of yoga and Buddhism
Mindfulness & Intimacy (Part 1)
In this talk Michael presents his approach to spiritual practice with grounded psychological insight into key practices of both the yogic and Buddhist traditions. These talks are part of a series on the psychology of yoga and Buddhism and were
Best of Awake in the World: In that Lump of Flesh and Bones
This week we’re revisiting a favourite Awake in the World podcast episode. In this talk, Michael argues that yoga and mindfulness are best practiced via the body versus striving for the attainment of philosophical or intellectual concepts. He encourages trusting
Best of Awake in the World: Do People These Days Need Enlightenment?
This week we’re revisiting a favourite Awake in the World podcast episode. In this talk, Michael considers the final lines of the first pada of the Yoga Sutra through the lens of a Buddhist koan: Case 62 of the Book
The Form is Hugging You
Michael gives a talk about the importance of form, and the importance of not becoming caught by form, and how this insight expands out to allow spontaneity, creativity, and freedom to be whatever you need to be moment by moment.
Nest Building
In this talk on awareness, Michael uses the metaphor of a nest to describe our accumulation of narratives, memories and viewpoints, and argues that non-attachment (vairagya) is crucial and “viewpoint interruption” is a practice in itself.
Not Too Tight, Not Too Loose
Michael leads a thirty-minute meditation focusing on the finer points of the posture (form), and explains how physiological details and psychological states affect one another.
Best of Awake in the World: The Good Enough Meditator
This week we’re revisiting a favourite Awake in the World podcast episode. In this talk, Michael highlights the hindrances to practice described in line 30 of the Yoga Sutras and then offers some techniques to work with them.
Heart Sutra: Give Yourself a Break (eBook)
In the fourth talk, Michael continues to unpack the Heart Sutra, discussing self-liberation, three kinds of burnout, thoughts without a thinker, and more. He shares the poem Bluebird by Charles Bukowski.
Knowing the Unknowable
In this talk on the Third Foundation of Mindfulness (from the Satipatthana Sutta), Michael covers the Kleshas, karma and learning to discern skillful versus unskillful mind states.
An Army of Coolness
Michael gives a talk about the Buddha’s “Fire Sermon,” and connects it to practice, being in relationship, and the cultivation of generosity, creativity and loving action.
About the Community Library
Michael was a great archivist and the Community Library was—and continues to be—a labour of love. Everything in the Community Library is available for free. Anyone, anywhere can have instant access to material that will help them deepen their practice and contribute to a culture of compassion and collaboration.
Libraries are places where we gather alone together. They are known to be places of refuge for seekers, as well as those who are marginalized. This library is no different. It helps us nourish our beautiful, international community without walls. Now, it will also help keep Michael’s legacy alive.