🌌 Mysticism −14%

Snow Melting in a Silver Bowl: A Book of Active Meditations

✍️ Cunningham, Nancy Brady;, Geddes and 3 more
Reader Score
4.6
(1 review) 132 sold
$16.99 $19.95 Save $2.96 (14%)
In stock — ready to ship Ships in 1–2 business days
📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

For those who find traditional seated meditation a challenge, this unique guide offers an innovative approach to mindfulness. Through a series of 'active meditations,' the book teaches how to harness intention and engage the senses with everyday objects and experiences. Authors Nancy Cunningham, Denise Geddes, and Jennifer Louden invite readers to discover profound spiritual shifts by actively paying attention to their inner and outer worlds. It's a pragmatic path to connect with universal energy, transforming ordinary observations into ceremonies of deep personal insight and expanded perception.

🌌
Mysticism
🏛 Red Wheel 📅 2004 📖 144 pages 📔 Paperback 📐 Paperback ISBN: 9781590030639
Fun Fact
This remarkable collection offers a refreshing antidote to the often-intimidating world of meditation. It excels at providing concrete, actionable practices for integrating spirituality into the busiest lives, making profound shifts in awareness accessible to all. While it might not satisfy those seeking intricate philosophical discourse or prolonged silent retreats, it's an invaluable resource for anyone desiring a practical, embodied path to presence. It stands as a vibrant testament to finding the extraordinary within the ordinary, a welcome addition to the shelves of contemporary esoteric practice.

📝 Description: Snow Melting in a Silver Bowl: A Book of Active Meditations

Active meditation is the solution for those who don't have the time or patience to sit still and wait for enlightenment and peace. Snow Melting In A Silver Bowl is a collection of activities designed to focus the mindif only for a momentto see the spiritual in the physical world. Active meditations are ceremonies of "intention"the universal spiritual practice of simply paying attention to the inner and outer worlds. Author Nancy Cunningham helps readers choose a propor propsthat represents a physical element that appeals to one of the five senses. She then offers steps to get in touch with a universal energy that brings about a shift in consciousness and perception. The active meditations collected in the book include ceremonies, rituals, celebrations, observation, tangible visualization, and dramatized prayer. Snow Melting in a Silver Bowl offers a variety of ceremonies and rituals for special events, seasons of the year, and even mini rituals designed for everyday use. The active meditations in the book help readers experience the extraordinary in the ordinary: A babynaming ceremony renews and affirms life. A spring breeze refreshes body and soul. An orange slice becomes a way to access creative "juices." A candle placed before a loved one who has passed on creates a time and spacedefying connection. The meditations are illustrated with the work of photographer Denise Geddes' evocative images that capture the soul of everyday objects.

💎 Expert review

💎
Esoterica Books editorial team
Occult literature desk
While this approach successfully democratizes meditation for the active-minded, it may not suit those seeking deep, contemplative silence or rigorous philosophical inquiry. Readers accustomed to complex theological texts or strict dogmatic traditions might find the focus on sensory immediacy too simplistic or lacking in intellectual depth. It is best suited for beginners or pragmatists who prefer experiential learning over theoretical study. The gentle tone and practical exercises are appealing, but it does not offer the structural intensity required by advanced practitioners of traditional esoteric systems. Those looking for a quick fix to spiritual malaise should manage expectations; this is a gradual path of attention, not an instant enlightenment manual.
✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

This book is ideal for seekers who feel intimidated by silent, seated meditation or those with restless minds that struggle to settle. If you are drawn to the mystical but find traditional methods too abstract or passive, this guide offers a tangible solution. By focusing on active engagement with everyday objects and sensory experiences, it allows you to weave spirituality into the fabric of your daily routine. You will gain practical tools to transform mundane moments into profound ceremonies, fostering a deeper connection with universal energy without requiring hours of isolation. It is perfect for busy individuals who wish to cultivate mindfulness and spiritual insight through simple, accessible actions, turning the ordinary into the sacred.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Esoterica Books —
⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.7/5
★★★★
If you yearn for spiritual depth but struggle with conventional meditation, this book is for you. It's ideal for seekers who wish to integrate mindfulness seamlessly into their daily lives, finding profound meaning and connection through simple, active engagements rather than quiet contemplation.

Reader rating

4.6
Based on 1 reviews
5
0
4
1
3
0
2
0
1
0
E
Esoterica Books editorial team

While this approach successfully democratizes meditation for the active-minded, it may not suit those seeking deep, contemplative silence or rigorous philosophical inquiry. Readers accustomed to complex theological texts or strict dogmatic traditions might find the focus on sensory immediacy too simplistic or lacking in intellectual depth. It is best suited for beginners or pragmatists who prefer experiential learning over theoretical study. The gentle tone and practical exercises are appealing, but it does not offer the structural intensity required by advanced practitioners of traditional esoteric systems. Those looking for a quick fix to spiritual malaise should manage expectations; this is a gradual path of attention, not an instant enlightenment manual.

❓ Frequently asked questions

Active meditation involves engaging your senses and actions with a specific 'prop' or activity, rather than sitting silently. It's about focusing intention and attention on the physical world to achieve a spiritual shift and heightened awareness.
Absolutely. This book is designed for anyone, regardless of prior experience. Its practical, hands-on approach makes spiritual exploration approachable and immediately applicable, especially for those new to or intimidated by traditional meditative disciplines.

📖 Who should read this

If you yearn for spiritual depth but struggle with conventional meditation, this book is for you. It's ideal for seekers who wish to integrate mindfulness seamlessly into their daily lives, finding profound meaning and connection through simple, active engagements rather than quiet contemplation.

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

Active Mindfulness Practices

This book champions an engaging, dynamic form of meditation, perfect for busy lives. Instead of silent stillness, it encourages readers to interact with their environment, using tangible 'props' and focused actions to anchor the mind and cultivate presence, making spiritual practice accessible and immediate.

Sacred in the Mundane

Discover how the extraordinary resides within the ordinary. The text provides frameworks for perceiving deeper spiritual meaning in common experiences, from observing nature to simple daily tasks. It guides practitioners to see universal energy in physical elements, fostering a profound connection to the world around them.

Intentional Ritual & Ceremony

Central to the book's philosophy is the power of intention, manifesting through ceremonies and rituals. Whether a mini-ritual for daily use or a special event, these practices are designed to focus awareness, shift consciousness, and bring about a deeper understanding of one's place within the spiritual tapestry.

📜 Historical context

While presented as a modern solution, the concept of active meditation echoes ancient spiritual traditions that wove ritual, sensory engagement, and reverence for nature into daily life. This work bridges that timeless wisdom with contemporary needs, offering a practical path to integrate spiritual awareness into the fabric of the modern world, reminiscent of indigenous practices and contemplative crafts.

📚 Glossary

Active Meditation
Intention
Prop

📔 Questions to reflect on

  1. Choose a simple object near you. What sensory details do you notice when you truly focus on it? How might this object reflect an aspect of your own inner landscape or a universal truth?
  2. Reflect on a routine daily activity, like making tea or walking. How could you transform this into a conscious, intentional ritual, infusing it with greater spiritual presence?
  3. Consider a recent moment when your perception shifted, even slightly. What triggered this shift, and how did it change your understanding of the situation or yourself?

🏛 Books from this publisher Red Wheel

All books from this publisher →
Heart and Sound: Discover Your Soul Voice: Chants, Prayers, and Affirmations [With CD] Lynne, Carole -14%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.4
Lynne, Carole
Heart and Sound: Discover Your Soul Voice: Chants, Prayers, and Affirmations [With CD] Lynne, Carole
$16.99 $19.95
75
Spirit Maps: Follow the Exquisite Geometry of Art and Nature Back to Your Center -14%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.7
Arettam, Joanna
Spirit Maps: Follow the Exquisite Geometry of Art and Nature Back to Your Center
$16.99 $19.95
88
The Wise Earth Speaks to Your Spirit: 52 Lessons to Find Your Soul Voice Through Journal Writing -14%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.6
Moon, Janell
The Wise Earth Speaks to Your Spirit: 52 Lessons to Find Your Soul Voice Through Journal Writing
$16.99 $19.95
84
Nirvana in a Nutshell: 157 Zen Meditations -13%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.7
Shaw, Scott
Nirvana in a Nutshell: 157 Zen Meditations
$12.99 $14.95
89
Mindful Dreaming: Harness the Power of Lucid Dreaming for Happiness, Health, and Positive Change -14%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.5
Johnson, Clare R
Mindful Dreaming: Harness the Power of Lucid Dreaming for Happiness, Health, and Positive Change
$14.41 $16.95
81
Sacred Beat: From the Heart of the Drum Circle -12%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.6
Telesco, Patricia; , Waterhawk, Don
Sacred Beat: From the Heart of the Drum Circle
$19.99 $22.95
82
Let Go and Live in the Now -13%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.4
Finley, Guy
Let Go and Live in the Now
$12.99 $14.95
75
Divinedog Wisdomcards: Includes 63 Full-Color Cards with Guidebook -16%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.5
Crutcher, Randy; , Horn, Barb; , Shishim, Teresa
Divinedog Wisdomcards: Includes 63 Full-Color Cards with Guidebook
$24.99 $29.99
80

You might also like

See more →
Nirvana in a Nutshell: 157 Zen Meditations -13%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.7
5
Shaw, Scott
Nirvana in a Nutshell: 157 Zen Meditations
$12.99 $14.95
89
The Little Book of Trees: An Introduction to the Folklore, Magic, and Mysticism of Trees -13%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.6
1
Hart, Felicity
The Little Book of Trees: An Introduction to the Folklore, Magic, and Mysticism of Trees
$12.99 $14.95
87
Celtic Benediction: Morning and Night Prayer -15%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.8
1
Newell, J Philip
Celtic Benediction: Morning and Night Prayer
$16.99 $19.99
91
The Intuitive Way: The Definitive Guide to Increasing Your Awareness (Expanded) -15%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.8
1
Peirce, Penney
The Intuitive Way: The Definitive Guide to Increasing Your Awareness (Expanded)
$16.99 $20.00
91
Merging with the Infinite: Quotations and Kriyas on Death and Dying -14%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.8
1
Yogi Bhajan
Merging with the Infinite: Quotations and Kriyas on Death and Dying
$16.99 $19.95
91
Catching the Big Fish: Meditation, Consciousness, and Creativity (Anniversary) -15%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.8
1
Lynch, David
Catching the Big Fish: Meditation, Consciousness, and Creativity (Anniversary)
$16.99 $20.00
91
Consciousness Dialogues: From Beginner's Mind Through Enlightenment: 150 Conversations with Peter Ralston -14%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.8
1
Ralston, Peter
Consciousness Dialogues: From Beginner's Mind Through Enlightenment: 150 Conversations with Peter Ralston
$16.99 $19.95
91
Moon Meditations: 365 Nighttime Reflections for a Peaceful Sleep Calabro, Jenna -15%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.7
1
Calabro, Jenna
Moon Meditations: 365 Nighttime Reflections for a Peaceful Sleep Calabro, Jenna
$16.99 $19.99
91
Shadow Work for Core Wounds: Move Beyond Toxic Positivity to Heal Emotional Trauma and Find True Belonging -14%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.8
1
North, Ora
Shadow Work for Core Wounds: Move Beyond Toxic Positivity to Heal Emotional Trauma and Find True Belonging
$16.99 $19.95
91
No Mud, No Lotus: The Art of Transforming Suffering -15%
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.8
1
Nhat Hanh, Thich
No Mud, No Lotus: The Art of Transforming Suffering
$15.99 $18.95
91
Esoteric Meaning

Concepts in this book

Silver →
Home Genres
Cart
Wishlist