Contemplative Pedagogy

Understanding the Tree

On the Tree of Contemplative Practices, the roots symbolize the two intentions that are the foundation of all contemplative practices: cultivating awareness and developing a stronger connection to God, the Divine, or inner wisdom. 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 the different groupings of practices. For example, Stillness Practices focus on quieting the mind and body in order to develop calmness and focus. Generative Practices come in many different forms (i.e. prayers, visualizations, chanting) but share the common intent of generating thoughts and feelings of devotion and compassion, rather than calming and quieting the mind. Please note that these classifications are not definitive. For example, mantra repetition could be considered a Stillness Practice rather than a Generative one.

What About My Practice?

The creator understands that your personal practices may not appear on this illustration. The particular practices on this Tree were mentioned by members of our network as being particularly useful to them in organizational and classroom settings. This does not mean that practices which don't appear on the illustration aren't "contemplative." A more comprehensive representation might have thousands of branches! Any activities not included on this Tree (including those which may seem more mundane, such as gardening, eating, or taking a bath) may be considered a contemplative practice when done with the intent of cultivating awareness or developing a stronger connection with Divinity or one's inner wisdom.

Download of a blank Tree template so that you can customize it and include your own practices.

Finally, you will find below a webinar with Maia Duerr, the creator of the Tree with suggestions and resources for you!