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Doug Kraft – Buddha’s Map: His Original Teachings on Awakening, Ease & Insight in the Heart of Meditation (2013)This upload is in response to a request.________________________________A sweet, wise, and spacious aliveness imbues every moment. It’s so clear, quiet, and unchanging that it draws no attention. We can go an entire lifetime without noticing it. Yet, it is there. The Buddha called it “Awakening” or the “End of Suffering.” He didn’t talk about it but rather taught a way to cultivate the direct experience of it. This experience is what counts.Many contemporary schools of Buddhism have drifted away from the Buddha’s original teachings over the centuries. Now, we can still find his elegant, nuanced and efficient path.Buddha’s Map is the tale of Doug Kraft’s journey down this awakening path, his experience of spaces within himself he never thought possible. Easy to read yet an elegant combination of autobiography and instruction, Buddha’s Map offers rare and intimate insight to the meditative states Buddhist monks are not allowed to discuss. With clear and direct advice, Kraft shares his belief in everyone’s capacity to experience the ultimate in the original Buddhist meditation practice.Reviews:“A clear and wise description of meditation practice which will be helpful to many, especially to those who have dedicated themselves to a deep exploration of the Buddha’s path.”  ~ Jack Kornfield“Buddha’s Map is filled with psychological and spiritual insights from one who has traveled far. It is an easy read, guiding the way through the mysteries of the Buddha’s teachings about meditation, wisdom, and well-being.”  ~ John Travis, Senior Dharma teacher at Spirit Rock Meditation Center”This is a phenomenal book. It unlocked several pieces of puzzles which were a mystery for me.It seems like, there are three reasons which make this book unique. First, it has its basis on the teachings of the Buddha as explained by Bhante Vimalramsi. Second, Doug has very openly shared his experiences of learning meditation and used these narrations very effectively to clarify topics (e.g. anatta) which would otherwise be very difficult to understand for most of us. Third, Doug’s background as a psychotherapist seems to have been very useful in explaining Buddha’s teachings in a way which is easy to understand and easy to relate to.I felt so light after reading the explanation on how ‘private and enduring’ experiences stick to our sense of self, I started singing with joy. Every few pages, I came across nuggets of wisdom which cut through the fogginess and misunderstanding. In my opinion, It’s best to read this book in sequence though.I used this book along side the practice of the technique taught by Bhante Vimalramsi. I think that combination makes the understanding of Buddha’s teachings much more effective and easy to follow.”  ~ Prashant (Amazon)—–search for Skye71 to see my other uploads