Waking Up and Growing Up - by Diane Musho Hamilton & Gabriel Kaigen Wilson (Paperback)

About the Book

"This book offers a view of Zen practice that offers young people a contemporary path to support their spiritual development"--

Book Synopsis

​​A fresh, nuanced view of Zen integrates relational and emotional skill-building with traditional practices in a spiritual "cross-training" approach suited for the unique demands of modern life.​

This compelling and innovative view of Zen practice gives people in their 20s and 30s a contemporary approach to spiritual development that is meaningful and actionable within the complexities of modern life. Grounded deeply in the tradition of Soto Zen, professional mediators and Zen practitioners Diane Hamilton and Gabriel Wilson extol the virtues of sitting meditation, dharma study, and the student-teacher relationship. At the same time, they offer insight into the importance of emotional development and the maturation of relationship skills. This approach draws on insights from Integral psychology as taught by philosopher Ken Wilber, neurophysiology, trauma work, adult development, and teachings of the Zen masters to:

• develop interpersonal communication skills;

• blend the spiritual path with the realities of contemporary life;

• learn how to navigate issues of inclusivity and diversity;

• explore issues of identity;

• train our power of attention rather than get caught up in social media, division, and crisis;

• mature our emotional and relational skills;

• and much more.

Complete with practices, exercises, and reflections in each chapter, this book offers an accessible, insightful approach to becoming more personally effective, compassionate, and spiritually awake.

Review Quotes

"A pioneering work that brilliantly unites two essential human journeys: the mystical path of 'Waking Up' to enlightened consciousness and the developmental stages of 'Growing Up' through life's natural progression. Diane Roshi's unique integration of Zen wisdom and psychological insight, combined with Gabriel's lived experience as her senior student, offers a complete roadmap to transformation."
--Ken Wilber, author of Finding Radical Wholeness

"Diane and Gabriel have created a real gem. Their interweaving voices, personal stories, and combination of spiritual wisdom and practical life guidance make this book an invaluable resource for both waking up and growing up. I highly recommend it."
--Kristin Neff, PhD author of Self Compassion

About the Author

DIANE MUSHO HAMILTON is an award-winning professional mediator, author, and teacher of Zen meditation. She is the cofounder of Two Arrows Zen and founder of Real LIFE programs in Utah. She is the author of Everything Is Workable, The Zen of You and Me, and Compassionate Conversations.

GABRIEL KAIGEN WILSON is a conflict mediator and team coach, trainer for the Real LIFE programs, and senior practitioner in the Two Arrows Zen practice. He is a coauthor of Compassionate Conversations.