Help us to establish Drala Jong - a Buddhist Retreat Centre in Wales

Help us to establish Drala Jong - a Buddhist Retreat Centre in Wales
Help us to establish Drala Jong - a Buddhist Retreat Centre in Wales

Friday 31 December 2010

Experts Share New Year’s Resolution Tips

Set small goals: Ngakma Nor’dzin, author of Relaxing into Meditation.

“Nor’dzin suggests that people who want to establish a regular practice of relaxation and meditation set themselves up to succeed, rather than be over-ambitious and fail. She advises people to aim to meditate 10 minutes a day, every day. Through starting in small ways we establish a change in our lives, which can simply become part of our lives.”

http://malenrutherford.com/experts-share-new-years-resolution-tips/





Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

The problem lies in our way of seeing

"The first fundamental certainty is the experience of unsatisfactoriness. Dukkha—unsatisfactoriness—is not what we are and where we are – but how we are. It’s the subjective quality of our experience that is being described as unsatisfactory. The problem lies in our way of seeing rather than in the material fabric of the world."

p23, Rays of the Sun, Ngakpa Chögyam, Aro Books worldwide, 2010, 978-1-898185-06-2

Monday 27 December 2010

Relaxing into Meditation : Inspiring Reviews

Relaxing into Meditation has received many reviews, all positive.  These provide and insight — from many different viewpoints — into what the book has to offer.

For some people, the reviews themselves have proved sufficiently inspiring for them to begin and sustain a meditation practice without ever having read the book.

Here are some excerpts from the reviews, with links to the full text. We hope that you find them interesting and inspiring.




"Relaxing into Meditation is the best book on meditation I've ever read, and I've been browsing them since the mid-70's. I say this because of the distinction made between relaxation and meditation, and the explanation of why relaxation must happen before meditation can begin."

Rossinna Ippolitto


"The patience and accessibility of the information is one of the highlights of the book throughout."

Kamili Feelings


"Although she writes about a subject that others have been prone to mystify and deliberately, it often seems, obscure, she writes in such an accessible and approachable way that you are drawn to listen avidly to what she has to say. She is, in fact, overwhelmingly kind and gentle in her approach, so that, no matter your age or background, you are likely to be comforted and inspired by her work."

Lois Henderson


"Ngakma Nor’dzin’s goal isn’t to get us meditating for an hour in both the morning and evening. It’s to help us develop a greater sense of awareness and compassion, fostered through meditative practices that are as diverse as we are as individuals."

Lori Deschene


"This is the kind of book I wish I had when I first started meditating."

Dan Hersam


"This book got me meditating again, after a long period of only occasionally finding time for it"

—  Esther Wieringa


"It is accessible and not plagued with off-putting esoterica like so many others on this subject. Although understandable for a novice, it also has value for the more practiced."

Phyllis Proctor


"Nordzin gives excellent explanations of some basic, commonly used relaxation and meditation techniques that can be used effectively no matter what your level of experience is."

Frank Martin


"The author presents the art of meditation in terms that anyone can understand."

Michael Gibb


"Wherever you are on your meditation journey you will find this book a constant companion allowing you to discover many enjoyable and informative methods.  An easy to digest guide to meditative practices for calming the mind, nurturing creativity, rejuvenating the spirit, and nourishing the soul."

Gary Stone


"I wish this book would have been there when I started to try meditation. It's written in a very accessible way and explains the basics and more in a very down-to-earth manner."

Tink-NL


"It’s excellent for beginners, and I’d highly recommend it as one of the best books I have read for anyone who’s got an interest in starting to meditate."

Noreen Blanluet


"So the book starts with relaxation practices and then phases gently on to meditation practices. The meditation practices have their roots in the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. There isn’t any kind of philosophy or religious dogma. It focuses completely on meditation as a skill, a practical skill than enhances life and promotes well being."

Mark McHugh


"As someone who does not meditate, but would like to, I found this book very useful in getting me started and giving me concrete steps to follow. "

Booklorn Reviews


"Those who are just beginning their meditative journeys will find the plain language and illustrations particularly helpful. From sitting, to breathing, to walking, stretching, and even singing, Lama Nor'dzin covers it all in this very practical, very inspiring guide."

John DiGilio


"This book provides a step-by-step guide to the various methods that can help relieve stress and leave you feeling more calm. [...]  It is easy to follow, with illustrations that help you understand the techniques suggested - it will leave you feeling at peace in no time."

Healthy magazine




Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Saturday 25 December 2010

Approach all that happens with an open heart

At Christmas time people seem to make an effort to be jolly. Strangers will greet you with a 'Merry Christmas' and generally there is an air of open-heartedness and goodwill. We all enjoy the sparkly decorations and coloured lights and are able to rediscover child-like pleasure in such simple things.

We can always live like this and not forget it just because Christmas is over. It is in fact possible to be warm towards one another throughout the year and continue to encourage the cheerfulness of spirit we discover at Christmas.

If we approach all that happens with an open heart, a sense of appreciation and the intention to be warm and kind toward others, we will discover peace and contentment and help others to discover this as well.

— Ngakma Nor'dzin Pamo

Friday 24 December 2010

The police state of karmic vision

"Awareness means relinquishing the police state of karmic-vision and assuming personal responsibility"

p51, Rays of the Sun, Ngakpa Chögyam, Aro Books worldwide, 2010, 978-1-898185-06-2

Wednesday 22 December 2010

Relaxing into Meditation : Review in Holland & Barrett's Healthy Magazine

Holland and Barrett's Healthy magazine have reviewed Relaxing into Meditation.

In the January/February 2011 edition (with Gisele Bündchen on the cover)

'Ngakma Nor'dzin, a Western Buddhist believes that regularly practising relaxation and meditation is essential for a totally stress-free life.  This book provides a step-by-step guide to the various methods that can help relieve stress and leave you feeling more calm. There is particular focus on breathing and relaxation, which Nor'dzin believes is the starting point to meditation.  It is easy to follow, with illustrations that help you understand the techniques suggested - it will leave you feeling at peace in no time.

A good book for beginner meditators.'



Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide. 

Sunday 19 December 2010

Relaxing into Meditation featured on Books We Love by Assisting Authors Online


Janis Friesler and David Shultz of Assisting Authors Online have featured Relaxing into Meditation amongst the books they love.  Please see the Books We Love section of their site.

Assisting Authors Online : http://www.assistingauthors.com/
Books We Love :  http://www.assistingauthors.com/books-love/








Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Saturday 18 December 2010

The New Book Review: Reviewer Gives Book on Meditation Top Marks

"This is a fabulous book for those who have been curious about meditation but were a little hesitant, feeling they didn't have "the right stuff" to be successful at it. The text is gentle and fun and calmly inspiring, and even if you have dabbled in meditation before you'll learn new ways to think about what you have been doing. Relaxing into Meditation is sure to become a classic."

-- Rossinna Ippolito

Read the full review at The New Book Review: http://bit.ly/nrprimnbr




Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Friday 17 December 2010

Responsibility

"No-one else is responsible for how we perceive the world"

p51, Rays of the Sun, Ngakpa Chögyam, Aro Books worldwide, 2010, 978-1-898185-06-2

Tuesday 14 December 2010

Relaxing into Meditation : Review by John DiGilio

"Whether you are new to meditation or seasoned in your practice, Lama Ngakma Nor'dzin's book is the perfect accompaniment to your cushion, bench, or chair. Her step-by-step instructions cover a myriad of proven meditation techniques and are explained in a way that is accessible. Those who are just beginning their meditative journeys will find the plain language and illustrations particularly helpful. From sitting, to breathing, to walking, stretching, and even singing, Lama Nor'dzin covers it all in this very practical, very inspiring guide. ( )"

Relaxing into Meditation Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

John DiGilio reviewed Relaxing into Meditation on Librarything.com  (http://www.librarything.com/work/10257145)




Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Saturday 11 December 2010

Rossinna Ippolito : An Appreciation of Indexing

A skilled indexer is able to understand the purpose of a book and draw together the main themes of the writing in order to create an index that provides access to the heart of the material.

In working with Rossinna Ippolito on Relaxing into Meditation, it was immediately evident to us that she not only had the perspicacity and skill to find the common themes and ideas but also truly understood the author's intent in writing the book.

As a result, we have an index which provides the reader with a clear guide to the main topics of the book and enhances their experience and understanding.

'ö-Dzin Tridral
Aro Books worldwide


For more information about Rossinna Ippolito's work as an indexer, please see her website (http://www.indocsindexing.com/welcome/welcome.html) and follow her on Twitter (https://twitter.com/#!/Impressivesort)

Relaxing into Meditation : Review by Booklorn Reviews

"This is a very accessible book on meditation with a lot of practical information, like how to make a sitting cushion/strap as well as the words for guided meditation that you can have someone read to you as you meditate or buy as audio tracks (or make your own, I suppose). I liked the fact that the book focuses on practicalities like how to relax and what meditation actually is rather than focusing, as another reviewer noted, on more esoteric aspects of meditation. As someone who does not meditate, but would like to, I found this book very useful in getting me started and giving me concrete steps to follow. ( )"

Relaxing into Meditation Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Booklorn Reviews reviewed Relaxing into Meditation on Librarything.com  (http://www.librarything.com/work/10257145)

Follow Booklorn Reviews' blog here : booklorn.com



Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Friday 10 December 2010

Pacific Northwest Chapter of the American Society for Indexing recognises Aro Books worldwide

The Pacific Northwest Chapter of the American Society for Indexing has recognised Aro Books worldwide as a publisher which values good indexes.

Nancy C. Gerth, President writes:

"We are delighted to inform you that Aro Books worldwide has been placed on the third annual Honor Roll of Publishers.  This award, originated by the Pacific Northwest Chapter (PNW) of the American Society for Indexing (ASI), recognizes publishers who value good indexes and the professionals who write them.  Aro Books worldwide was nominated by Rossinna Ippolito, an indexer who worked with you during the last year"

We are happy to have been recognised in this way and and have enjoyed working with Rossinna Ippolito on the index of Relaxing into Meditation.


For more information about the Pacific Northwest Chapter of the American Society of Indexing please see their website - http://www.pnwasi.org/

A good heart

"Having a good heart goes further than anything in terms of empathising with the nondual state"

p50, Rays of the Sun, Ngakpa Chögyam, Aro Books worldwide, 2010, 978-1-898185-06-2

Wednesday 8 December 2010

Relaxing into Meditation : Review by Mark McHugh

"The chapters of this book describe in a very practical way a sequence of exercises in relaxation and meditation.

The first six chapters are purely relaxation and breathing exercises then the seventh is a careful and very practical guide to the postures of sitting for meditation as a preliminary to the meditation practices described in the remainder of the book. Patterns so that meditators can make their own cushions and mats are included as an appendix. The author describes (and gives a pattern for) a sitting “band” used by Tibetan meditators. This fits around the back and knees and looks like a very comfortable and supported sitting position which I am looking forward to trying.

The remaining chapters of the book describe more properly meditation practices although the first few practices could be used as both meditation and relaxation practices. So the book starts with relaxation practices and then phases gently on to meditation practices. The meditation practices have their roots in the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. There isn’t any kind of philosophy or religious dogma. It focuses completely on meditation as a skill, a practical skill than enhances life and promotes well being.

Chapter twelve is the clearest introduction to the practice of meditation that I have heard or read but I hope many readers will come to know that in these words is the greatest of all possible gifts. The term Ngakma Nor’dzin uses for the primary meditation practice is “letting go”. This phrase by itself is a very clear and wonderful explanation of what meditation practice is. The book continues with chapters devoted to the support of this primary meditation practice with advice on how to begin and sustain a daily meditation practice as well as some exercises and yogic techniques that will help with the inevitable aches and pains of sitting still for a while as well as helping with the problems of sleepiness and restlessness.
There are two contemplative practices described “friend, enemy and stranger” and also loving kindness meditation. These therapeutic and transformational practices are supported by the established “letting go” meditation practice.

The final chapter is a longer review of all the practices described in the book and describes the benefits of a regular meditation practice. There is also some advice on the subject of a teacher and a supporting group to sit with.

The book is an excellent introduction to meditation for the individual but will also be a very good resource for the introduction of a relaxation and meditation practice to a community group, a work-place group, adult education group or perhaps a nursing home. The author has taken particular care that the practices are accessible and safe for older people.

The words of this book are full of love, joy and care. ( )"

Relaxing into Meditation Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Mark McHugh reviewed Relaxing into Meditation on Librarything.com  (http://www.librarything.com/work/10257145)



Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Sunday 5 December 2010

Relaxing into Meditation : Review by Noreen Blanluet (win the book)

"In a nutshell, as you probably would have guessed from the title, this book covers the practice of meditation. It’s very comprehensive and talks about many different techniques, meditation positions and posture, possible problems people encounter and how to deal with them… anything you need to know really. Although many (possibly all) of the practices are from the Buddhist tradition, it is written in a neutral, open manner, and you definitely don’t need to consider yourself a Buddhist to enjoy the various techniques. It’s excellent for beginners, and I’d highly recommend it as one of the best books I have read for anyone who’s got an interest in starting to meditate.

I would also recommend this book to more experienced meditators. I used to attend my local Buddhist centre and practiced meditation for many years, and this book acted as a useful reminder to me. It also introduced me to types of meditation I had not had the opportunity to practice before, and provided reassurance about problems I used to encounter while meditating, that were not often expressed and shared.

What a lovely read.

The tone of the book is gentle and full of commonsense. Reading the words is a serene, grounding experience and you can feel the energy of the author, Nor’Dzin Ngakma, coming through and gently accompanying you through the experience.

It’s an all round lovely book, I’m happy to have been offered the chance to read it, and I recommend it without the slightest hesitation."

Relaxing into Meditation Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim available from Lulu (http://bit.ly/nrprimlul), Amazon.co.uk (http://bit.ly/nrprimzuk), Amazon.com (http://bit.ly/nrprimzus)

Noreen Blanluet reviewed Relaxing into Meditation on her web site BeAmazingToday.co.uk (http://www.beamazingtoday.co.uk/2010/12/relaxing-into-meditation-win-the-book/) and she is also offering the chance to win the book.



Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Friday 3 December 2010

The nature of mind is non-dual

"Glimpses of rigpa can arise spontaneously through the initial cessation of struggling to maintain the processes of samsara and relaxing into a more open view. We relax and discover with a jolt that the nature of mind is non-dual. We relax and discover in a flash that the nature of view is realised. We relax and discover with surprise that there is a flicker of harmonious natural congruence in activity and being."

p207, Spacious Passion, Ngakma Nor’dzin, Aro Books worldwide, 2009, 978-1-898185-07-9

Monday 29 November 2010

Zorba Publishers and Relaxing into Meditation

Zorba Publishers, established in 2010 is an emerging publisher focused on bringing eclectic western writings to the discerning Indian reader. As part of our efforts to enrol new authors to be published in India, we came across a review by Rossinna Ippolito on Linkedin which spoke in glowing terms about a new, yet to be published book called Relaxing into Meditation “Relaxing into Meditation is the best book on meditation I've ever read, and I've been browsing them since the mid-70's. I say this because of the distinction made between relaxation and meditation, and the explanation of why relaxation must happen before meditation can begin. I have never seen it spelled out so clearly before, and in such a gentle, non-didactic manner”.

About 230 million Indians speak English as a first, second or third language. With rapid economic growth, a decline in the age of the working population and increasing incidences of stress related afflictions, we felt the subject of the book was particularly well suited for Indians to help them cope with their daily problems. We sent the book for extensive reviews to renowned people in different fields in India and abroad for their opinion on launching the book in India. There was overwhelmingly positive feedback on the book from our reviewers – both spiritual and lay – and we then decided to proceed with publishing the book in India. With 2013 – the expected inflection year in India for fast track growth – coming up, we feel that books like “Relaxing into Mediation” will be well positioned to serve the needs of the next generation in India very well.

-- Geetu Goel, Managing Director, Zorba Publishers


Relaxing into Meditation Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Friday 26 November 2010

Available on Amazon : Rays of the Sun by Ngakpa Chögyam

Rays of the Sun by Ngakpa Chögyam is now available on Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk


The four evening talks contained here deal with the themes studied by everyone exploring Buddhism in depth: the four noble truths, eightfold path, causality, compassion and refuge. This material is discussed in creative contemporary English, and presented from a perspective informed by Dzogchen.

-- Aro Books worldwide

"This book is an essential book for any practicing Buddhist in the West, in fact it is essential reading for anybody slightly interested in Buddhism or anybody who has ventured to question “just what exactly is going on here?”"

-- Adam at Goodreads.com

If you have already read Rays of the Sun please consider visiting Amazon to give the book a review and a rating!


Our books on Amazon:
  • Rays of the Sun - US - UK
  • Relaxing into Meditation - US - UK
  • Spacious Passion - US - UK

Realise the potential of non-dual view

"The Four Thoughts teach us everything we need to know to be authentic practitioners. We can embrace the gentleness, kindness, and immaculacy of the warrior. We can embrace the dynamic energy, fierceness, and directness of the warrior. We can realise the potential of non-dual view on a moment by moment basis."

p179, Spacious Passion, Ngakma Nor’dzin, Aro Books worldwide, 2009, 978-1-898185-07-9

Thursday 25 November 2010

Zorba Publishers and Aro Books worldwide featured in Publishers Weekly

We have been featured the Religion Book News section of Publishers Weekly:

 Zorba Publishers, a new press established in India to publish “eclectic western writings [for] the discerning Indian reader,” according to Geetu Goel, director of sales and marketing, has acquired the Indian rights to Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor’dzin. The book was originally published in Wales in 2010 and is available in the U.S. from Aro Books worldwide . About 230 million Indians speak English and, noted Zorba’s Goel, “With rapid economic growth, a decline in the age of the working population and increasing incidences of stress-related afflictions, we felt the subject of the book was particularly well suited for Indians to help them cope with their daily problems.”


http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/book-news/religion/article/45303-short-takes.html

Relaxing into Meditation Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Sunday 21 November 2010

Relaxing into Meditation : Review by Tink-NL

"I wish this book would have been there when I started to try meditation. It's written in a very accessible way and explains the basics and more in a very down-to-earth manner. Relaxing is not the same as meditation, as a lot of beginners seem to think. The author explains this very clearly and gives a lot of handy advice and other tips. The drawings are simple, but good enough to illustrate things. The appendices on how to make your own meditation equipment are welcome! Although I'm not really a beginner anymore I picked up quite some tips to make my meditation experiences even better. ( )"

Relaxing into Meditation Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Tink-NL reviewed Relaxing into Meditation on Librarything.com  (http://www.librarything.com/work/10257145)

Follow Tink-NL's blog 'Tinkerbell-NL' here : http://tinkerbell-nl.blogspot.com/



Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Friday 19 November 2010

Rays of the Sun - 10% off until 15th December

The good people of Lulu are currently offering 10% off Rays of the Sun until 15th December. Use coupon code GIFT305 at checkout and receive 10% off Rays of the Sun. (http://bit.ly/ncrroslul).

The four evening talks contained here deal with the themes studied by everyone exploring Buddhism in depth: the four noble truths, eightfold path, causality, compassion and refuge. This material is discussed in creative contemporary English, and presented from a perspective informed by Dzogchen.

Disclaimer: Use coupon code GIFT305 at checkout and receive 10% off Rays of the Sun [paperback]. Maximum savings with this promotion is £10. You can only use the code once per account, and you can't use this coupon in combination with other coupon codes. Sorry, self-purchases (buying books that you've published) aren't eligible. This great offer ends on 15, December 2010 at 11:59 PM EST so try not to procrastinate! While very unlikely we do reserve the right to change or revoke this offer at anytime, and of course we cannot offer this coupon where it is against the law to do so. Transactions can only be made in Pounds. Finally, Lulu incurs the cost of this discount, so it does not impact the Author's proceeds of the book.

Relaxing into Meditation : Book review by Gary Stone

Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor’dzin takes one on a journey through a myriad of simple and more complicated meditation techniques. Using this reference on our yoga and meditation holidays in Spain, I found the various groups wanting to dip into the book to find relevant and pertinent exercises to suit their differing needs.

Well planned, and obviously written with tremendous authority, the book always keeps the end user in mind, not using high-level language to confuse the reader.

Each meditation technique combines an actual reference to classes, in which the students have practiced these methods.

I am currently working my way carefully through all these techniques, gradually making use of the simple but clear line drawings, which help with postures and styles.

Wherever you are on your meditation journey you will find this book a constant companion allowing you to discover many enjoyable and informative methods.

An easy to digest guide to meditative practices for calming the mind, nurturing creativity, rejuvenating the spirit, and nourishing the soul.

Having read it many times now, I highly recommend this publication for novice to advanced meditators alike. I have used the book when delivering my taster sessions to meditation in our yoga breaks in Spain having great success in the process.

Namaste

(http://bit.ly/nrprimsto)



Gary Stone and his wife Nicole have been practising Yoga since 1998 and teaching since 2000. In 2003 they moved to Spain to offer Yoga retreats especially for people suffering from the stresses of a busy working life.
For more information, please see http://www.yogabreaks.org.uk and http://www.facebook.com/YogaBreaks




Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

We play with our life experience

"Death, impermanence, things that go wrong, laughter, colour, autumn leaves, light sparkling in puddles, cars breaking down, relationships ending, falling in love - all are the play of existence, the movement and change that is reality. It is only experienced as unsatisfactory when we try to stop movement and change, or see movement and change as painful. Once we have a real understanding of the cause of our experience of samsara as unsatisfactory, we can engage with it in a light-hearted manner. We play with our life experience, rather than feeling like a victim of our circumstances."

p157, Spacious Passion, Ngakma Nor’dzin, Aro Books worldwide, 2009, 978-1-898185-07-9

Wednesday 17 November 2010

Relaxing into Meditation : Review by Michael Gibb

"Well-rounded book. The author presents the art of meditation in terms that anyone can understand. The added bonus of how to make meditation cushions as well as the drawings throughout the book that illustrate posture, exercises, etc, make "Relaxing into Meditation" a book that anyone serious about meditation should have in their library. ( )"

Relaxing into Meditation Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Michael Gibb reviewed Relaxing into Meditation on Librarything.com  (http://www.librarything.com/work/10257145)



Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Sunday 14 November 2010

Relaxing into Meditation : Review by Frank Martin

"This slim volume should be on every serious practitioner's bookshelf, whether they follow a Tibetan Buddhist path or not. Nordzin gives excellent explanations of some basic, commonly used relaxation and meditation techniques that can be used effectively no matter what your level of experience is. Quite possibly one of the most important points she makes is to distinguish relaxation and meditation, both important practices, but certainly not the same. ( )"

Relaxing into Meditation Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Frank Martin reviewed Relaxing into Meditation on Librarything.com  (http://www.librarything.com/work/10257145)

Follow Frank Martin's blog 'Life in the Stacks' here : http://deusexlibrus.wordpress.com/



Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Friday 12 November 2010

Patterning becomes transparent

"Once we are able to dwell in the experience of emptiness between moments of movement in the mind, and even expand the scope of that emptiness, our patterning becomes transparent. It is revealed and laid bare. We can experience the naked empty nature of our perception, and joyfully play with the movement of intention and response."

p133, Spacious Passion, Ngakma Nor’dzin, Aro Books worldwide, 2009, 978-1-898185-07-9

Wednesday 10 November 2010

Relaxing into Meditation : Review by Phyllis Proctor

"Having struggled with meditation for a number of years, I have hopes that Relaxing into Meditation will be the help I need to be successful. A quiet mind is a difficult challenge for me and this book offers a variety of helpful tips and suggestions. It is accessible and not plagued with off-putting esoterica like so many others on this subject. Although understandable for a novice, it also has value for the more practiced. ( )"

Relaxing into Meditation Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Phyllis Proctor reviewed Relaxing into Meditation on Librarything.com  (http://www.librarything.com/work/10257145)



Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Saturday 6 November 2010

Aro Tradition Thangka Calendar 2011

Tantric Art from the Aro Tradition.

http://bit.ly/arocal2011th

Thangka paintings of the Aro History, Jomo Pema 'ö-Zér, Aro Yeshé, Yeshé Tsogyel, Black Ögyen Chenrezigs, Dorje Phurba, Dorje Tröllö, Rangrig Togden, Padmasambhava, Ögyen Dzambhala, Ayé Khandro, Khyungchen Aro Lingma, Jomo Menmo.

"In Aro Lineage thangkas we make the figure more anatomically realistic than is sometimes seen in thangka painting, but we have to be careful where we draw the line inasmuch certain things have to remain iconographic." -- Ngakma Pema Zangmo

This 2011 Calendar is now available from Lulu.

Lulu currently have an offer available where you can save 30% off the price of calendars until 15th November 2011 using the coupon code EARLYBIRD. They are also offering 25% off 1-9 calendars with coupon code SHORTLIST and 30% off 10 or more calendars with coupon code LONGLIST (both also until 15th November). These offers may vary from region to region.

Money from the sale of this calendar goes to Sang-ngak-chö-dzong, the UK charity of the Aro Lineage.  As one of its charitable activities, Sang-ngak-chö-dzong offers support to the painters of these Thangkas.

Friday 5 November 2010

Art from the Aro Tradition

Art from the Aro Tradition is available for sale from our Zazzle stores in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Spain, France, Japan, Portugal, UK and USA

Zazzle are currently offering free shipping for orders from Zazzle.co.uk using the promotion code ALLFREESHIPZ valid until midnight, 8th November.

It is worth checking the various Zazzle sites from time to time as each of them occasionally has offers like this.

To qualify for this free shipping offer, one or more Zazzle products must be purchased. Enter promo code ALLFREESHIPZ at checkout to receive the free shipping. The free shipping offer is for standard shipping to UK/EU addresses only. Shipping charges will apply to oversized orders and orders being shipped on an expedited basis or outside the UK or EU. Offer is valid from November 4, 2010 at 00:01 GMT through November 8, 2010 at 23:59 GMT. Your order must be placed during that time to qualify for this special offer. This promotional offer may not be combined with any other Zazzle promotional or discount offers. Offer valid on Zazzle.co.uk only.

Impermanence is a cause for celebration

"Impermanence is a cause for celebration. Impermanence is our opportunity to discover presence. Present moments are infinite. They will never end. We will never cease to have opportunities to start again. We will never cease to have opportunities to experience presence."

p109, Spacious Passion, Ngakma Nor’dzin, Aro Books worldwide, 2009, 978-1-898185-07-9

Wednesday 3 November 2010

Relaxing into Meditation : Review by Esther Wieringa

"This book got me meditating again, after a long period of only occasionally finding time for it.

It is very down to earth, gentle and practical. It shows you how and why to meditate, starting with simple relaxation exercises (great if you ever have trouble falling asleep), going on to basic sitting meditation and then more advanced techniques such as Giving and Taking, and visualizations. All step by step and encouraging you to take it slowly. It even shows how to make your own mediation cushions.

The techniques come from Tibetan Buddhism, but Buddhism itself is just there as a background, so you don't need to bother with the religious aspects if you don't want to. Just meditate, that will do. ( )"

Relaxing into Meditation Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Esther Wieringa reviewed Relaxing into Meditation on Librarything.com  (http://www.librarything.com/work/10257145)



Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Friday 29 October 2010

Honourably upholding the cause of kindness and awareness

"To activate our potential as human, we must live our lives as warriors: fearless, without need of reward or recognition, honourably upholding the cause of kindness and awareness. This is the scarcity and preciousness of human rebirth."

p75, Spacious Passion, Ngakma Nor’dzin, Aro Books worldwide, 2009, 978-1-898185-07-9

Wednesday 27 October 2010

Rays of the Sun - 15% discount until 15th November

The good people of Lulu are currently offering 15% off Rays of the Sun until 15th November.

Rays of the Sun [paperback]

Rays of the Sun [paperback]
Purchase Rays of the Sun [paperback] with 15% off with coupon code LEAF305


Disclaimer: Use coupon code LEAF305 at checkout and receive 15% off Rays of the Sun [paperback]. Maximum savings with this promotion is $10. You can only use the code once per account, and you can't use this coupon in combination with other coupon codes. Sorry, self-purchases (buying books that you've published) aren't eligible. This great offer ends on November 15, 2010 at 11:59 PM so try not to procrastinate! While very unlikely we do reserve the right to change or revoke this offer at anytime, and of course we cannot offer this coupon where it is against the law to do so. Finally, Lulu incurs the cost of this discount, so it does not impact the Author's proceeds of the book.

Relaxing into Meditation : Review by Dan Hersam

"I'm reasonably seasoned at meditation yet I learned plenty from this book. It clarifies the distinction between relaxing and meditating, which isn't immediately obvious until you start your practice. You can't meditate until you've first relaxed, and the early portion of the book describes various ways to get yourself into a relaxed state. We're all different, so having options allows you to choose the method that works best for you. The line drawings are sufficient for illustrating the methods or postures described.

This is the kind of book I wish I had when I first started meditating. For a short book it covers a surprising amount, from methods of breathing, relaxation and meditation to meditation cushions. The glossary caps things off, defining the common nomenclature of Tibetan Buddhism. ( )"

Relaxing into Meditation Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Dan Hersam reviewed Relaxing into Meditation on Librarything.com  (http://www.librarything.com/work/10257145)

Follow Dan Hersam's blog here : http://dan.hersam.com/



Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Sunday 24 October 2010

Relaxing into Meditation : Page 99

Ford Madox Ford said, "Open a book to page ninety-nine, and the quality of the whole will be revealed to you."


Relaxing into Meditation
Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide
ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 
http://bit.ly/nrprim


Recognise your viewpoint of yourself at the centre of the stage of which the friend, enemy and stranger are peripheral players. Develop a sense of equanimity about these three people. See that—if circumstances were different—your enemy could become your friend, your friend could have been a stranger, your stranger could have been a friend, and so on. Look at all the possible permutations of relationships that could exist between you and these three people and understand that your view of them and the rôle that they play in your life is arbitrary and dependent upon circumstances. Continue to contemplate in this way from a perspective of equanimity.

Finish the analytical meditation session by celebrating your close relationship with your friend. Recognise the pleasure in that friendship and how it could be wonderful to feel that warmth and friendship towards everyone in your life.

Regret the difficulties in your relationship with your enemy and think about whether there is anything that you could do to change things – whether it might be possible to develop warmer feelings towards this person.

Finally think about the stranger. It may be that there cannot be any closer points of contact between you, but consider that it could be pleasant to respond in a more friendly way towards this person when your lives do cross.


The meditation Friend, Enemy, Stranger looks at our view of our lives, ourselves and other people. We can continually change the subjects of the meditation, choosing three different people at different times. Our view is the basis of all our expectations of life, our interpretations of circumstances, and our responses to the experiences we encounter in our lives. Our view governs how we are as people in the world and causes us to create an inter-penetrating network of reference points – that is, things that support our view of the way we think things are.



Relaxing into Meditation by Ngakma Nor'dzin
Aro Books worldwide  ISBN 978-1-898185-17-8 http://bit.ly/nrprim

Available from Lulu.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com, and other bookshops worldwide.

Friday 22 October 2010

Return to openness

"The most efficacious practice is always that which enables one to return to openness, and to the possibility of the direct experience of the non-duality of emptiness and form."

p51, Spacious Passion, Ngakma Nor’dzin, Aro Books worldwide, 2009, 978-1-898185-07-9

Sunday 17 October 2010

Relaxing into Meditation : Indian Edition

Aro Books worldwide is pleased to announce that it has contracted with Zorba Publishers for the creation of an Indian subcontinent edition of Ngakma Nor'dzin's book Relaxing into Meditation. The Indian subcontinent edition will make this book available to the 230 million English speakers in India and will be available in January 2011.

For further information please see the press releases at PressDoc (http://pressdoc.com/p/0006mx) and PrLog (http://www.prlog.org/11004813)