What is RAIN?

I am trained in an investigative meditation method called “RAIN.”

RAIN is an acronym that stands for Recognize, Allow, Investigate and Nurture. It was first developed and named by Michele McDonald, a Buddhist meditation teacher in the 1980’s and has been adapted over time by meditation teachers worldwide as a gentle approach to lead us through difficult emotions and challenging situations, most notably Tara Brach. I have been professionally trained by Tara and Jack Kornfield to offer this teaching in one and one and group settings. This is not therapy, and for deep trauma and PTSD issues you will need the help of a trained therapist. 

What is Tea with Mara?

Tea with Mara is a Buddhist expression, Mara representing negative forces the Buddha once described as he grappled with his own thoughts on the night he found enlightenment. Today, mindfulness teachers conjure Mara to describe situations where negative thinking takes over, leaving us with feelings of self-doubt, fear, and insecurities. Through this practical approach, rooted in Buddhist insight and compassion, we can overcome these forces by approaching them with loving kindness and curiosity – inviting them to tea, if you will. 

Want to practice with me?

My “Tea with Mara” is a one hour personalized meditation session around your concern.  Together, I will guide you through a meditative journey into self discovery, using RAIN and other mindfulness techniques. You may need more than one meditation session but that depends on each situation. 

My “Tea with Mara” practice is geared towards sitting directly with something you are uncomfortable with, whether it be an attitude or an unwanted habit you have, an action or injustice you feel badly about, or one you have received, and other struggles you may be carrying. I believe that we can allow our feelings and actions to be recognized in a non-judgemental and nurturing environment that I can offer you; we gain tremendous insight into who we are, who we want to be, and how we might get through or even let go of a painful situation. Ultimately, the aim is to face challenges in your life through radical compassion where we bring deep tenderness to our own suffering or/and the suffering of others. In this practice, I will help show you what it means to bring unconditional love to the whole situation and how bringing a sense of loving kindness to the pain we carry can lighten the burden.

What do I need to bring to Tea with Mara sessions? 

Bring paper and pen so that you can reflect on your investigation. Time is made for you to do some exploring in the immediate moment of RAIN practice and writing on paper can be very useful.  

BOOK A “RAIN Meditation Practice”

This is a one-on-one, private, Zoom session. There are some open slots on the booking calendar. If these dates are not suitable, please contact me. Bookings are required to be made no later than the day before. The cost is $80 for a single session that lasts for approximately 50 minutes.

For private, curated, group RAIN (friends/businesses and special events, for example), contact me.