There are some places in this world that seem to emanate energy. It’s hard to describe exactly what it is, but you can just sense it. Maybe it’s the massive magma chamber underneath the lake, or perhaps its the Maya and their ancient history here. Whatever the cause, most people who come feel inspired, and often gain a renewed sense of curiosity, reminiscent of childhood.
It was here, specifically in San Marcos and Panajachel, that three expats recently created a self guided meditation journal entitled, “Everyday Enlightenment: Beginnings.”
Everyday Enlightenment takes often difficult to understand concepts of the Buddha’s 8 Fold Path, and puts them into simple exercises that you can accomplish daily. It also introduces you to Anapana Sati, the meditative breathing technique taught by the Buddha. If you’re coming to Lake Atitlan with purpose, with a desire to alter negative thought patterns, and become the best version of you, we highly recommend this book.
As the title suggests, this book is for beginners. Each day contains a insightful quote followed by 4 unique exercises.
The first exercise is Breathing, which is inspired by path 8, or Right Concentration. The book does a beautiful job in slowly introducing Anapana Sati, so that even a first timer can learn this powerful and ancient breathing meditation. Over the 21 days, one develops a strong control over this technique.
The second exercise presents a question that you are to answer in the journal in indelible ink. The questions are meant to help you better understand yourself, reality, and the nature of suffering. Each question is carefully aligned with one of Buddha’s 8 paths. Although simple questions, they truly inspire self reflection, and ultimately allow a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.
The third exercise is the repetition of a mantra. The mantras seem to reflect the days theme. They are worded for our modern lives, and are simply inspiring.
The final exercise surrounds action, and also reflect the days theme. They prompt the reader to do things out of their ordinary routine, such as smiling at yourself in front of a mirror, or calling a loved one to tell them how much they mean to you.
Conclusion
After having completed the 21 days of the Everyday Enlightenment Journal, we believe this resource can have a powerfully positive influence on one’s overall sense of wellbeing. Although it is geared towards beginners, it’s equally beneficial for advanced practitioners of yoga and meditation.
*We recently learned that publishing company, Backpack Buddha, developed a kids version with the help Jim Henson’s cartoonist, Guy Gilchrist, entitled, Buddha Bear’s Enlightenment Coloring Book. We’re really looking forward to getting our crayons out for this one!
The energy of Lake Atitlan has different effects on different people. Some spiral down into an ever increasing abyss fueled by drugs and alcohol. Others use its energy to elevate towards enlightenment through yoga, meditation, and physical activities around the lake. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which path to take.