Critical Mindfulness - S3, EP4.

Season of the Witch

Episode Dedication: A shoutout to Apple podcast reviewer “Mr. Fullbottom.”

Episode Highlights:

1. Historical Roots in Hinduism and Vedic Traditions:

   • Exploration of mindfulness or "attentive awareness" in early Hindu scriptures.
   • Discussion on Hinduism's evolution over 4,000 years and its religious traditions in Vedic writings.
   • Introduction of concepts like dharma in Hinduism, and their significance in mindfulness.

2. Paths in Hinduism and the Modern Interpretation of Yoga:

   • Overview of different yogas in Hinduism, focusing on Jhana, Bhakti, Karma, and Raja yoga.
   • Critique of Yoga's modern commercialisation, especially in the Western world.

3. Mindfulness Beyond Emotional Management:

   • Hinduism views mindfulness as a step towards higher states of consciousness.
   • Contrast between spiritual mindfulness in Hinduism and the secular approach in modern practices.

4. Buddhist Influence on Mindfulness:

   • Impact of Buddhist teachings on mindfulness.
   • The Buddha’s introduction of mindfulness as part of the Eightfold Path to enlightenment.
   • Concerns about the dilution of mindfulness in contemporary society.

5. Jon Kabat-Zinn and Western Adaptation of Mindfulness:

   • Kabat-Zinn's role in popularising mindfulness in the West.
   • Development of the Mindfulness-Based Stress

• Critique of mindfulness becoming a tool for stress management in capitalist societies.

1. Personal Views on Mindfulness:

   • I share my opinions on mindfulness being used to manage stress symptoms but not stressors.
   • Discussion on mindfulness as a means of creating passive workers rather than addressing corporate issues.

2. Benefits of Mindfulness:

   • APA study findings on mindfulness reducing anxiety, depression, and stress.
   • Harvard Health's remarks on mindfulness enhancing brain efficiency and perception.

3. Witchy Business Shoutout: Lucas Katz:

   • Lucas Katz work in assisting LGBTQIA+ individuals through mindful coaching.

4. Critical Mindfulness in Witchcraft and Paganism:

   • Integration of mindfulness in witchcraft and pagan practices.
   • Encouragement for a critical and attentive approach to mindfulness.

5. Personal Experience with Mindfulness:

   • An exploration of my journey through grief and mental health, and the role of mindfulness in my life.
   • A call for embracing emotions and connecting with them mindfully.

6. Mindful Activism Activity:

   • A guided activity to connect mindfulness with nature and self-activism.
   • Steps include choosing a natural setting, engaging senses, journaling, and setting activism intentions.

Contact Info:

@SOTWWITHROWAN on insta

or email at [e-mail].