Classic Alan Watts on the importance of stilling the mind

I discovered a wonderful classic TV show that introduced Americans to the seemingly exotic practice of meditation on Open Culture, a favorite site.

You may be interested in watching the 1960 TV program called “The Silent Mind” by Alan Watts. It opens with some tinny music but if you can get past that, it’s just fascinating.

 Alan Watts began popularizing the teachings of Zen Buddhism, Hinduism, and Taoism in America during the 1950s. He taught at the Academy of Asian Studies in San Francisco, wrote Way of Zen and other bestselling books, gave talks on the radio, and developed TV programs.

Friendship…


Peace between countries must rest on the solid foundation of love between individuals.

–Mahatma Ghandi

This Memorial Day weekend, I’m thinking about the people we care about who live in the U.S. We were warmly welcomed during our recent trip by family and by new and old friends alike. As a Canadian I may not agree with certain U.S. government policies (especially around intervening in other countries), but I love and appreciate individual Americans.

Time for a change of view…a photo meditation on a city park

Appreciation, gratitude, affection — these are the qualities city folks bestow on their parks. Beauty, serenity, tranquility, majesty — these are the rewards they reap in return.

Adapted from Landt Dennis

On this sun-drenched holiday weekend, I’ve been fortunate to spend time in a beautiful green space that lines the Humber River in Toronto. I shared the park with people of all ages, engaged in walking, cycling, picnicking, playing, and dreaming.

We all know from our own experience that being in such a space can lift our spirits, heal our woes and rejuvenate our flagging energy. But many studies have confirmed that time spent in nature relieves mental fatigue specifically by restoring the ability to concentrate and pay focused, effortful attention. The sights and sounds of nature absorb individuals effortlessly. Through rest, concentration is renewed.

With my camera around my neck, I am drawn to the sparkling light, the multi-hued green, and the gestures of the folks enjoying the space separately and together. I try to capture a slice of this in photographs.

Looking at life through my lens bestows on me great gratitude, appreciation and affection for this city park.