04/06/2024
Buddhism and the Body: A Somesthetic Workshop in Chanting Meditation
- by Elaine Hsu, (Translated by Li Huei Huang)
On April 6th, the Austin Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) organized this special lecture, Buddhism and the Body – A somesthetic workshop in chanting meditation. The lay Dharma Lecturer, Dr. Hollowy, delivered his lecture at the main shrine, drawing an audience of over 70 participants.
Dr. Holloway shared his personal journey, recounting how the demands of his studies and career led to imbalances in his physical and mental health. He underwent heart surgery, while his wife battled cancer. Through the practices of meditation and chanting, he found improvements in his well-being. Dr. Holloway encouraged attendees to engage in repentance ceremonies, highlighting their ability to cleanse both body and mind, and to enrich the spirit through the harmony of chanting.
During the lecture, Urraca Fitten posed a question about the distinctions between music and Buddhist chanting, as well as methods for non-mandarin speakers to concentrate on Buddhist chanting. Andrew Knowles and Lilja Macki also shared their profound experiences from attending last year's "When Buddha Meets the Gods” Festival at Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, expressing the transformative power and inspiration found in chanting.
Following the midday meal, participants gathered at the Tea Room to practice "Praise of Incense Offering" of the Amitabha Sutra. Ven. Jue Ji explained the significance of this practice and offered guidance on chanting techniques and breathing. Ven. Yong Jia played the drum and bell, and together, the assembly immersed themselves in the enchanting beauty of chanting.
