Finding the Way Out

About Robin Spirituality shaped by our biology and physiology

Robin Craig is a Teacher in The Mind Illuminated (TMI) tradition, which is rooted in Theravadan and Tibetan Karma Kagyu traditions with lineage to the Venerable Ananda Bodhi. Robin appreciates the ways in which joy is an integral part of the path to the deep spirituality and interconnection that is ours by nature. Her dharma teaching lineage comes from teachers who have studied in the early Buddhist tradition, as well as teachers in modern Theravada lineages.

Robin is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Faculty of Organic Intelligence®. Her understanding of the ways spirituality is shaped by our biology and physiology support an approach to meditation practice that is non-shaming and flexible and brings an emphasis on the joyful exploration and insight that arises from there.

Nature, Meditation, Dharma, Physiology About Robin's Teachings

Nature dharma reflects the idea that nature is not just a backdrop to human life but an active, dynamic force that reflects and embodies the principles of dharma. The Buddha and early monks and nuns spent much of their time practicing in direct relationship with forests, living creatures, the elements, and the rhythms of the world. There was no false sense of separation and insight arose from this intimacy.

This perspective encourages a harmonious relationship with the environment, fostering respect and mindfulness. Recognizing nature as a living expression of dharma helps us align our actions with the rhythms of the world, promoting a deeper sense of balance and purpose

Robin is excited to offer in-person retreats and online programs that invite practice in relationship with nature – alive and interconnected. Just as the Buddha along with the monks and nuns drew wisdom from their interactions with the environment, these offerings provide an opportunity to deepen our relationship with the natural world, inside and out.

Robin continues to learn and explore Nature Dharma with Susie Harrington, Mark Coleman, and Gil Fronsdal with ongoing eco-Dharma support from a larger co-hort of Nature Dharma teachers.

The Mind Illuminated

The Mind Illuminate tradition is based in early Buddhist texts and integrates Samadhi (unification of mind) and Vippasana (insight) teachings and practices. The text “The Mind Illuminated” by Culadasa (John Yates, PhD), Matthew Immergut PhD, and Jeremy Graves lays out some of the science and practices supporting this approach and provides clear guidance for practice.

I view the book and accompanying Practice Guide as tools describing guideposts and understandings to support the unfolding of your practice. It describes common challenges and offers ways to recognize and navigate them.

If your mind tends towards striving, it is even more important that you bring some caution to how you approach this book. Striving is a tendency to grasp into the future, which can become a hindrance to practice if it brings up negative self judgement about where you “should” be in practice.

If you are interested in exploring practice in this way, I highly recommend that you only read up to where you are in your practice, or perhaps one chapter ahead. 

As much as possible, inviting a relaxed body and bringing curiosity to what is present provide important supports for practice.

I had the opportunity to speak with John about the somatic components of practice, and he encouraged me to support folx in finding the appropriate ways to bring physiological support into practice.

Organic Intelligence

Organic Intelligence (OI) can support meditation by integrating principles of neurobiology into your practice. Developed by Steve Hoskinson, OI focuses on understanding the body’s natural capacity for self-regulation and healing through a nuanced awareness of the nervous system.

These understandings are particularly helpful if you have tried to “meditate” in a traditional way and found that your body is saying “nope!” This might be related to feeling trapped, or experiencing overwhelming anxiety or anger. There are ways to explore practice that allow your physiology to come into a relationship with this moment, here and now, and begin to experience the benefits of practice instead of being disorganized by it.

Overall, Organic Intelligence enriches meditation practice by inviting alignment with the body’s innate capacity for balance and healing, leading to a more holistic and effective approach to mindfulness.

OI Website: https://organicintelligence.org

Direct Teaching Lineage Meditation Lineage

Upasaka Culadasa (John Yates, PhD) was Robin’s main teacher while he was alive. His teachings continue to inform her practice and teachings. His lineage was Upasaka Kema Ananda and the Venerable Jotidhamma Bhikkhu, both trained in the Theravadin and Tibetan Karma Kagyu traditions with lineage to the Venerable Ananda.

Other influential teachers include:

  • Ajahn Amaro
  • Ajahn Chah
  • Ayya Khema
  • Bikkhu Analayo
  • Guy Armstrong
  • Heather Sundberg
  • Kittisaro
  • Leigh Brasington
  • Rev angel Kyoto williams
  • Rob Burbea