For episode 271, Sharon sits down with poet, author and Zen master Henry Shukman.
After a spontaneous spiritual awakening at the age of 19, Henry embarked on a long journey of healing and deeper awakening through meditation. Since then, he has been leading a growing number of practitioners in Europe and the US. He is the Spiritual Director Emeritus of Mountain Cloud Zen Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Henry has also created the app, The Way, and is the author of several books, including his latest 2024 release, “Original Love.” This is Henry’s first appearance on the podcast.
In this conversation, Sharon and Henry speak about:
- Henry’s challenges in early life
- Discovering Zen teachings
- Henry’s new book, Original Love
- Mindfulness, Support, Absorption, Awakening
- Original Love versus Original Sin
- Mental health in spiritual practice
- The power of community and connection
- Henry’s meditation app, The Way
- How to microdose lovingkindness
The episode closes with Henry leading a guided meditation. You can learn more about Henry’s books and teachings on his website right here. You can also learn about his app, The Way, right here.