“Stephan Bodian draws the reader into a direct experience of his subject: the peaceful and liberating ground of awareness in which experiences come and go. His own great depth of insight and heart comes through on every page as he offers clear descriptions of subtle matters, practical suggestions, and experiential practices. Truly, a jewel of a book.”

Rick Hanson, PhD, author of Buddha’s Brain and Hardwiring Happiness

“This provocative and profound book shines a light on how practicing meditation can reify the doer—the self who is being mindful. With great lucidity and care, author Stephan Bodian introduces approaches drawn from non-dual wisdom traditions that allow us to relax back and realize the indivisible radiant awareness that is already and always here.”

Tara Brach, PhD, author of Radical Acceptance and True Refuge

“Stephan Bodian takes us beyond mere words, ideas, and mental fabrications into the very heart of the matter. I heartily recommend this excellent book.”

Lama Surya Das, best-selling author of Awakening the Buddha Within and Awakening to the SacredPublisher’s Note

This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering psychological, financial, legal, or other professional services. If expert assistance or counseling is needed, the services of a competent professional should be sought.

Distributed in Canada by Raincoast Books

Copyright © 2017 by Stephan Bodian

Non-Duality Press

An imprint of New Harbinger Publications, Inc.

5674 Shattuck Avenue

Oakland, CA 94609

www.newharbinger.com

Lines from “I Have Lived on the Lip” from THE ESSENTIAL RUMI by Jalal al-Din Rumi, translated by Coleman Barks. Copyright © 1997 by Coleman Barks. Used by permission.

Cover design by Amy Shoup

Acquired by Ryan Buresh

Edited by Ken Knabb

All Rights Reserved

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Dedicated with boundless gratitude to my teachers,

without whose patience and generosity

this book would never have come to be,

and to the peace and happiness

of all beings everywhere.