OUR CONTENT
THEORY
Padakun is breaking new ground in how we understand the relationship between walking as a meditative act and the contemplative space that is generated in our minds while walking. This is being documented in our newest book - Walk Like a River: Mapping the Contemplative Space. In this section we will share selected research and writing to explain this for you.
PRACTICES
In this section we summarize and develop our understanding of contemplative practices which are affiliated with walking. Our work in Walk Like A Mountain focussed on the practices most integral to the Buddhist traditions. Now we will expand this to other traditions in more detail, especially non-Buddhist pilgrimages and indigenous practices like “walk-about”.
CONTEMPLATIVE MAPS
Padakun proposes that contemplative spaces are no different from physical ones, in that the process of movement in those spaces is improved through certain “maps” which assist the contemplator in providing a structure with landmarks. The most familiar examples are the mandala and the structured flow of the pilgrimage.
STORIES
The everyday experience of contemplative walkers gives us invaluable insight into the process and experience of that walk. We seek out such walkers and aspire to provide a forum for them to share those experiences with others. Their stories can also complement the development of our theory. And if you have a story to share, we invite you to connect and share with us.
OUR BOOKS
Our first book is the first of its kind and examines the relationship between walking and meditative or contemplative practices, especially in Buddhist traditions. Walk Like A Mountain: The Handbook of Buddhist Walking Practices (Sumeru Books, 2012) focusses on Buddhist traditions but also spans out to other forms as well. We have numerous other articles we have written for your information. In process as of 2023 is Walk Like A River: Mapping Contemplative Spaces.
As this book unfolds, we will share select details, until the full book is available (probably in late 2024)
THE PADOMETER NEWSLETTER
This newsletter is one of our long-standing ways to share our progress and interests. It is a quarterly presentation of more substantial articles and parallel work.