Seeing both the election season and global temperatures heat up can make us anxious. To address the stress of working on these issues, Third Act Faith is offering monthly online contemplative practices.
Each session begins with a short introduction, followed by a meditation of about 20 minutes, with a short period to debrief. Most will last 35-40 minutes. Because these are spiritual experiences and not informational events, the meditation sessions are not recorded.
Many people equate contemplative practice with Buddhist meditation, but most religions have contemplative traditions. Spiritual practices like meditation, breath awareness, gratitude, and compassion resonate with many people who are not religious. These practices help us develop empathy, improve focus and attention, reduce stress, enhance creativity, and cultivate resilience.
TAF online practices complement Third Act’s monthly Hope & Joy sessions. These 90-minute interactive sessions feature experts in such fields as neuroscience, psychology, faith traditions, sociology, and philosophy to help connect contemplation and action. Visit the Third Act Events page for information on upcoming sessions.
Religious leaders like Franciscan friar Richard Rohr recognize the importance of connecting action and contemplation. Seeing the two as inseparable, Rohr founded the Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC), whose vision is “transformed people working together for a more just and connected world.” CAC faculty include Rev. Dr. Brian McLaren, who spoke at TAF’s February meeting.
While Rohr’s work is rooted in Christianity, TAF is partnering with the Garrison Institute, which draws on contemplative practices more broadly, believing that “contemplation is key to discovering insights and innovations which lead to transformative action.” TAF is working specifically with the Institute’s Pathways to Planetary Health initiative, which recognizes the deep interconnection between the wellbeing of people and Earth. Teachers associated with this project will lead our sessions periodically.