Buddha's Heart

A profound integration of clarity, heart, and grounded practice. Stephen is able to write with great precision and simplicity about far-reaching transformative processes. He is also deeply realized himself and can write from his own direct experience. It's a fantastic, amazing book! -Rick Hanson, PhD, psychologist and NYT bestselling author of Buddha's Brain Written from deep personal wisdom, Buddha's Heart expertly addresses key obstacles that block many people from accessing and opening to their true nature. Through clear and careful elucidation and instruction, Stephen brings these universal and timeless teachings to life. -Jud Brewer, MD, PhD, Director of Research and Innovation, Mindfulness Center at Brown; Associate Professor in Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Brown University; and author of The Craving Mind A profoundly original and intimate presentation of awakening through Buddhist heart practices. Stephen's framing of classical Theravada teachings will inspire novice and experienced practitioners alike to explore heretofore unfathomed depths of their own tender hearts. -Karin Meyers, PhD, Academic Director, Mangalam Research Center for Buddhist Languages A deep dive into the heart of who we truly are. Stephen offers us wise words and a host of nourishing Buddhist heart practices from the insight meditation tradition as doorways to awakening. -Loch Kelly, meditation teacher, psychotherapist, and author of The Way of Effortless Mindfulness Buddha's Heart offers practices that orient us toward awakening the heart and give us glimpses of our true nature, our innate goodness. Stephen gives us a framework for seeing the way our psychological selves can react to Buddhist teachings. This book in itself is rich in generosity and love. -June Kramer, MD, psychiatrist and psychoanalyst A thorough and inspiring step-by-step walk-through of just what the subtitle says: a meditation practice for developing well-being, love, and empathy. The experienced as well as the inexperienced meditator can reap a useful harvest from these pages. -David Chadwick, editor of Zen Is Right Here and author of Crooked Cucumber Stephen draws on his extensive experience as a practitioner and teacher to offer the Buddhist heart meditations. Unlike much Western instruction, ethical preparation is at the fore, with the precepts and psychological interrogation used to gently prompt self-reflection and resolve obstacles. The result is a balanced and manageable guide to an extensive and profound practice. -Kate Crosby, PhD, Professor of Buddhist Studies, King's College London, and author of Esoteric Theravada, UK