The Tree illustrates some of the contemplative practices currently in use in secular organizational and academic settings. This is not intended to be a comprehensive list. Below the Tree you will find links to descriptions of many of these practices as well as a more in-depth description of the Tree and image files for downloading.
Some of the practices on the tree link to further information–either on our website, or on Wikipedia.
Activist Practices
Pilgrimage to areas where social justice issues are highlighted
Work and Volunteering
Vigils and Marches
Bearing Witness
Creative Practices
Contemplative Arts
Improvisation
Music and Singing
Journaling
Generative Practices
Lectio Divina
Visualization
Beholding
Loving-Kindness Meditation
Movement Practices
Labyrinth Walking
Walking Meditation
Yoga
Dance
Qigong
Aikido
Tai Chi Chu’an
Relational Practices
Council Circle
Dialog
Deep Listening
Storytelling
Ritual/Cyclical Practices
Ceremonies and Rituals based in Spiritual or Cultural Traditions
Establishing a Sacred/Personal Space
Retreats
Stillness Practices
Meditation
Quieting the Mind
Silence
Centering
Understanding the Tree
On the Tree of Contemplative Practices, the roots symbolize the two intentions that are the foundation of all contemplative practices. The roots of the tree encompass and transcend differences in the religious traditions from which many of the practices originated, and allow room for the inclusion of new practices that are being created in secular contexts.
The branches represent different groupings of practices. For example, Stillness Practices focus on quieting the mind and body in order to develop calmness and focus. Generative Practices may come in many different forms but share the common intent of generating thoughts and feelings, such as thoughts of devotion and compassion, rather than calming and quieting the mind. (Please note that such classifications are not definitive, and many practices could be included in more than one category.)
Because this illustration cannot possibly include all contemplative practices, we offer a free download of a blank Tree that you can customize to include your own practices. Activities not included on the tree (including those which may seem mundane, such as gardening or eating) may be understood to be contemplative practices when done with the intent of cultivating awareness and wisdom.
The Center for Contemplative Mind in Society
http://www.contemplativemind.org