Living Mirrors with Dr. James Cooke Shinzen Young on connecting Buddhism, shamanism & science | Living Mirrors #36
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Jan 27, 2021 In this enlightening conversation, Shinzen Young, a meditation teacher trained in various Buddhist and Native American traditions, shares his journey through spirituality and science. He explores the intricate ties between Buddhism and shamanism, shedding light on how practices like deity yoga adapt across cultures. Shinzen also recounts his transformative sweat lodge experience and discusses the profound intersection of science and humility, emphasizing how mindfulness can bridge belief systems and deepen our understanding of the human experience.
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Early Interest in Asia
- Shinzen Young became fascinated with East Asian cultures as a teenager, leading him to study their languages.
- Despite poor high school performance, he pursued his interests, eventually encountering Buddhist meditators in Asia.
Becoming a Monk
- In Japan, Shinzen Young was initially refused access to esoteric Buddhist teachings due to his intellectual approach.
- He was told to become a monk and engage in menial tasks before any teachings would be considered.
Vajrayana and Shamanism
- Vajrayana Buddhism, often associated with Tibet, also has a Japanese form called Shingon.
- It historically incorporated local shamanic traditions, like Bon in Tibet and Shinto in Japan, for wider cultural acceptance.
