Rita has practiced low-impact living in harmony with nature for thirty years. She lives off-the-grid in an adobe home, and cultivates food and healing
plants as well as pollinator and wildlife habitat in her gardens. Her lifelong connection to nature led to an early recognition of the interdependence of all beings, which led inevitably to an interest in Buddhism, and ultimately to certification as an MLP Mindfulness Teacher. She has meditated daily since 2010, at least twice daily since November 2016, and now incorporates all aspects of MLP’s mindfulness approach into her daily practice. As a decade-long dream to offer meditation retreats at her homestead came to fruition shortly before the Covid-19 pandemic, an epiphany clarified her calling to share the benefits of mindfulness with friends, family, and those who aren’t yet either. In this time of ecological and societal upheaval, tenderness toward the planet and all its inhabitants, especially oneself, is more essential than ever.
“A consistent daily mindfulness practice enables me to find a balance between grief and gratitude. I’ve always been an introvert, but I’ve done a lot of ruminating, questioning, and harsh judging of myself in my introspection. With mindfulness practice, I’ve learned how to introspect in a healthy, productive way that has allowed me to transform from an anxious, critical mess to a joyful, relaxed person who is reliably more pleasant for everyone, including myself, to be around. Mindfulness has helped me ask and answer so many questions that are essential to finding inner peace, equanimity, and genuine happiness. Observing my habits now, I can ask, Is this healthy or helpful? Is it in alignment with my values? Is it wise?… and choose my actions accordingly.”
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