Some recent articles that came into my inbox of note … both holding wonder and awe!
1. Practising Wonder in a Threat-Focused World:
In a world shaped by constant alerts, headlines and doom-scrolling, wonder can feel like a such a privilege and luxury. I enjoyed this recent article from Psychology Today which suggests that wonder can be a quality we can actively cultivate, and mindfulness and meditation are key pathways. Psychiatrist Greg Sazima reframes wonder not as rare moments of awe, but as an attentional stance – the ability to meet life with openness, curiosity and fresh eyes. When the mind isn’t locked into threat-based survival mode, even ordinary moments regain their sense of aliveness.
Mindfulness is the practice that helps us interrupt habituation – the mental shortcut that dulls perception and narrows awareness. In meditation we cultivate this quality, softening and slowing our attention, so we begin to notice again. Familiar experiences can then feel excitingly new again, connections deepen, and life feels richer and more meaningful. Seen this way, wonder isn’t fleeting or sentimental. It’s a trainable way of seeing – and meditation quietly prepares the ground.
You can read more on this article here: Practising Wonder in a Threat-Focused World Meditation League
2. Buddhist Monks, a Rescue Dog and a 2,300-Mile Peace Walk:
This is such a beautiful and heartwarming article. I had seen images popping up in my social media, and then read more about the group of Buddhist monks who are currently walking more than 2,300 miles from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C. on a symbolic Walk for Peace … a moving meditation meant to spread mindfulness, compassion and unity in a deeply divided world. What makes this journey especially touching was reading about their loyal companion: Aloka, a rescue dog whose calm presence and steady steps alongside the monks have become a symbol of hope and joy along the way. Hundreds of locals have gathered to offer food, greetings and support, and the story has obviously resonated widely online …. a reminder that peace begins with simple, mindful connection.
This isn’t just a long walk; it’s a lived expression of meditation in action … compassion embodied in every step, invitation and greeting along the road.
You can read more here: Buddhist monk and their dog walking for peace
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‘Meditation in the News’ is my attempt to build a regular habit of reading, digesting and sharing some of the (many) articles and press releases that I receive daily about meditation and meditation research. I hope you enjoy it!
Read past editions of: ‘Meditation in the News‘