Mirabai Bush — Contemplation, Life, and Work

Meditation Journey

Mirabai Bush's journey with Buddhist meditation began in the 1970s when she returned from India, bringing with her a transformative practice that would influence Western society. Initially, the idea of integrating meditation into everyday life was met with skepticism, as it was traditionally seen as a monastic pursuit. However, Bush and her contemporaries, like Joseph Goldstein and Sharon Salzberg, were determined to adapt these teachings for a broader audience.

We were so marginalized, to put it mildly, we didn't quite know what to do with it. But many of us were really profoundly affected by it and felt that in some way or other, we wanted to, well, first integrate it into our own lives fully and then share it with others.

--- Mirabai Bush

Her efforts led to the establishment of a business that combined spiritual symbols with popular culture, marking the beginning of a cultural shift towards mindfulness and meditation in the West 1.

   

Education Impact

Bush's work extends into educational settings, where she has been instrumental in introducing contemplative practices to students. At Amherst College, she observed a significant interest in meditation and yoga among freshmen, highlighting a shift in student priorities towards mindfulness. This approach encourages students to engage with their surroundings more deeply, fostering a sense of presence and awareness.

The freshmen at Amherst College had to choose a three-day orientation, and out of 400 entering students, 70 chose meditation and yoga. So there's a big change.

--- Mirabai Bush

Bush's methods, such as mindfulness of an object, help students develop focus and resilience, preparing them for the challenges of academic life 2.

   

Spiritual Rediscovery

Bush's rediscovery of contemplative traditions began during a tumultuous period in the 1960s, driven by a search for meaning amidst societal upheaval. Her travels from London to Delhi exposed her to diverse spiritual practices, culminating in a transformative Buddhist course in India. This experience shifted her perspective from external validation to internal awareness, fostering a profound sense of belonging and understanding.

I began to see the basic nature of the impermanence of thoughts as they rise and fall away. And I just started taking them less seriously.

--- Mirabai Bush

Bush's journey underscores the importance of introspection and the potential for personal growth through contemplative practices 3.