Meditation exploded into American consciousness during the 1960s. At first, it seemed like an Eastern novelty that was only embraced by the counterculture. But people tried it and benefited from it. Soon, researchers began studying it and found that it had profound effects on physical health and psychological well-being. Today, we are going to explore how meditation can be used as a primary tool for understanding our own minds, and how it, ultimately, paves the way for us to develop greater love and wisdom in our lives.
Jim Piekarski is a licensed marriage and family therapist. Before his retirement, he lived and practiced in Southern California for 30 years. He served as the Clinical Director of Phoenix of Santa Barbara, a non-profit agency that treats adults with mental disorders. He was also a clinical supervisor for interns and therapist trainees at the Salvation Army Hospitality House in Santa Barbara and served as an adjunct professor at various colleges in the Santa Barbara area. Jim is the author of Mastering Your Emotions with Your Spouse and Others, which is available on Amazon. Today Jim and his wife, Karen, reside in Venice where he teaches Sunday afternoon Buddhism classes at the Blue Lotus Temple. The couple travels internationally for a few months each winter. They have spent a lot of time in Thailand, Vietnam and Bali. Jim also enjoys outdoor activities like biking, hiking and swimming.