The Contemplative Life

Today we look at perspectives from philosopher, Albert Borgman and historian, Daniel Immerwahr.   We see how history reveals that what was once deemed as a “threat” to flourishing is now seen as a focal practice.  Join us as we wrestle with some of our thoughts and experiences around what it means to experience connection, embodiment, creativity and attention in our modern world. Some of our show...

 Alejandro Rodriguez joins us today to talk about discovering contemplative paths in the midst of a corporate lifestyle.  We explore both the healthy and shadow sides of ambition and accomplishment.  Learn more about Alejandro’s current work at yesandsc.com Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we get a small commission at no ex...

Join us today as we explore ways we are noticing AI coming into our contemplative spaces.  What are the opportunities? What are some of the shadow sides? We look at ways we can grow in our awareness of this aspect of life that is rapidly growing.  For those interested in learning more about this topic, we did a previous episode in early 2024, E 162 Thoughts on AI.  Some of our show notes contain a...

Today we explore the topic of places and the ways that places have impacted us.   We discuss  4 types of travel and the impact it makes in our lives. Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we get a small commission at no extra cost to you.  Thanks for your support.

Today we are sharing some reflections from Part 1 and Part 2 of the sample spiritual direction sessions.  These episodes were recorded in partnership with Spiritual Directors International.  Tune in to hear some of Christina and Matt’s takeaways from the experience. Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we get a small commission...

Today we are sharing an episode that was recorded in partnership with Spiritual Directors International (SDI).   In Part 1, Christina Roberts was in the role of a spiritual guide with Matt.  Today Matt is the spiritual guide and Christina has given permission to share the session on the podcast as an example.  Enjoy. (link) E 224 Sample Spiritual Direction Session, Part 1 sdicompanions.org Some of...

Today we are sharing an episode that was recorded in partnership with Spiritual Directors International (SDI).   In Part 1, Christina Roberts is in the role of a spiritual guide with Matt, who has given permission to share the session on the podcast as an example. Next week, the roles will switch.  Enjoy. Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking...

Legacy Letters Today we discuss Legacy Letters with spiritual director, Robin Clossman.  We explore how time reviews and photos can be a gateway into sharing legacies with those we love.   These ideas translate to any decade of life. Connect with Robin to learn more at: robin@wcitech.net Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we...

Today we talk about ways that spiritual guidance shows up in our everyday lives- at home, work, with neighbors.  We explore both the informal settings for deep listening and how these practices can change our daily interactions. For more information, go to thecontemplativelife.net or email robertscontemplative@gmail.com Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the eff...

Today we explore how music connects us to God and the many ways music is prayer.  Whether you play music or simply listen, we hope you find new ways of experiencing meaningful spiritual moments. Mentioned in this episode: Marimbas Candle making supplies Fountain pens ink Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we get a small commi...

Join us as we unpack various types of rest.  Rest is not just taking a nap, but includes a variety of ways to find rejuvenation and restoration in our lives.  Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we get a small commission at no extra cost to you.  Thanks for your support.

Today we continue our conversation about rest and look at common barriers we might face.  As we highlight barriers we have faced, we hope you find inspiration to identify and move towards flourishing times of renewal in your life. Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we get a small commission at no extra cost to you.  Thanks fo...

Today we discuss common paradigms and mindsets around rest and renewal.  We hope this helps us become aware of how we approach rest and expand how we engage. Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we get a small commission at no extra cost to you.  Thanks for your support.

Today we are exploring the idea of fixing compared to listening.  To help us on this topic, we are revisiting a previous conversation with spiritual director and supervisor Marcia Bentley.   Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we get a small commission at no extra cost to you.  Thanks for your support.

Today we wrap up our series on art and contemplative with guest Sarah Bianchi. Join us as we talk about liturgy that first nourishes our own souls and from that deep space then sharing with others. Follow Sarah at: artbysarahkay.com IG:  Artbyskay  FB:  SarahKay Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we get a small commission at...

Today we explore photography and how it can be a doorway into contemplative spirituality.  As we have increasing access to photos on our phones, we hope this episode inspires you to engage in new ways. Resources mentioned in this episode:   The Practice of Contemplative Photography  by Andy Karr & Michael Woods Jameshazelwood.net/blog Miksang.com Connect with Ann: usheringgrace@gmail.com   htt...

Today we are joined by the Creative Director of Spiritual Directors International, Matt Whitney.  We explore the intersection of art, nature, movement and spirituality.   To learn more about Matt’s work and his art, connect at  matthewwhitney.com or follow on Instagram  @mattpwhitney Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we get...

Join us as we talk about the differences between time and energy and how to make the most of our natural energy rhythms.  Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we get a small commission at no extra cost to you.  Thanks for your support.

Join us as we explore body-mind-spirit connections with licensed Physical Therapist, Shannon Kunstman.  We discuss the importance of integrative body work with spiritual guidance.  To learn more, connect with Shannon at https://www.awarenessinmotionpt.com/about Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we get a small commission at n...

Join us as we explore body-mind-spirit connections with Katie Anders.    Katie is a spiritual guide, a trained yoga instructor and also one who recently has entered the process of becoming a nun with a religious order.   See how she integrates these various parts of her life and spiritual practice.  Connect with Katie at: ktanders1933@gmail.com Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We...

We are concluding our series exploring the lives of modern contemplatives who have helped shape our spirituality.  Today we are joined by Dave Schmelzer.  Dave has been a colleague and friend for almost 2 decades and has been instrumental in helping us grow our contemplative awareness.     Check out his work at: https://www.journey-on.net/ https://www.blueoceanfaith.org/ Some of our show notes con...

We are continuing our series exploring the lives of modern contemplatives who have helped shape our spirituality.  Today is the artist Scott Erikson.   Check out his work at: https://scottericksonartshop.com/ Instagram: Scott the Painter Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we get a small commission at no extra cost to you.  Th...

We are continuing our series exploring the lives of modern contemplatives who have helped shape our spirituality.  Today is the band Waterdeep with the music of Don and Lori Chaffer. We encourage you to check out some of their music at https://www.waterdeep.com/ or their youtube channel . Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking up resources + we...

We are continuing our series exploring the lives of modern contemplatives who have helped shape our spirituality.  Today is Barbara Brown Taylor.  We encourage you to check out some of her writings.  Mentioned in today’s episode were Altar in the World and Learning To Walk in Dark .  Learn more at https://barbarabrowntaylor.com/ Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save yo...

Today we kick off a new series for 2025 exploring the lives of modern contemplatives who have helped shape our spirituality.  We start with the Irish poet John O’Donahue.   We encourage you to check out some of his writings, particularly To Bless The Space Between Us .  Learn more at www.johnodonohue.com Some of our show notes contain affiliate links.    We want to save you the effort of looking u...