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The Tree of Contemplative Practices On the Tree of Contemplative Practices, the root symbolizes the two intentions that are the foundation of all contemplative practices: cultivating awareness and developing a stronger connection to one's inner wisdom and/or the divine/God. The root encompasses and transcends differences in the religious traditions from which many of the practices originated, and allows room for new practices that are being created in secular contexts. The branches represent the different groupings of practices. For example, Stillness Practices focus on quieting the mind and body in order to develop stillness and stability. Generative Practices come in many different forms (i.e. prayers, visualizations, chanting) but share the common intent of generating feelings of devotion and compassion. Each of the branches has a number of leaves, which are the specific practices. Just as on a tree, the leaves may fall to the ground, become compost and nurture the tree, and eventually take the form of leaves on other branches. In the same way, these contemplative practices inform one another and may often be combined. For example, groups may start a meeting with a few minutes of silence and then move into a council circle. Intention is a key factor. Many activities not included on the Tree (gardening, practicing a musical instrument, taking a bath) could be considered contemplative practice when done with the intent of cultivating awareness and developing a stronger connection to God/Spirit and/or one's inner wisdom. Copyright © 2007 St. Augustine by-the-Sea
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