Training the wisdom body: adverse experience allow us to connect with others

Not only are our adverse experiences beneficial for our own path, but they are the best way for us to connect with others. Suffering is a universal experience. This is why the Buddha chose suffering as the first topic of his teachings. So when we connect with our own suffering, we can also recall that many beings all over the world are having similar experiences. This helps us develop understanding, love, and compassion for others. — Rose Taylor Goldfield, From Training the Wisdom Body: Buddhist Yogic Exercise

I’ve not read the book this quote comes from but it sounds good. As the readers of this blog know, I’m very much into movement and general body awareness and healing through such methods. This is a description of the book:

Sitting still in meditation may be the common image that comes to mind when one thinks of Buddhist practice—but just as important is cultivation of awareness through movement. The traditional Tibetan practice of yogic exercises known as lujong helps us connect with and explore the natural wisdom inherent in our living, breathing, feeling bodies. Lujong is an exercise that engages our whole being—body, mind, and subtle body—from the coarse aspects to the subtler and more profound. This book provides a thorough foundation for those new to the practice, and it helps people already engaged in any form of yogic exercise to deepen the potent fusion of meditation and physical movement. Included is an overview of the unique tradition of Buddhist yoga, along with instructions on how to work with the body and mind in seated meditation; tips for furthering our practice by working with adversities such as fear, procrastination, and anxiety; and guidance on bringing practice mind into daily life. The author also offers exercise instructions and a complete explanation of the movement practices, with photos to illustrate.