Loch Kelly, M.Div. LCSW, is a renowned meditation teacher, author, and licensed psychotherapist, who has dedicated over three decades to the field of mindfulness. He is the founder of the non-profit, Open-Hearted Awareness Institute, and is celebrated for his unique approach to meditation that combines contemporary psychology and neuroscience with ancient wisdom traditions.
The Effortless Mindfulness Approach
Kelly’s teachings revolve around a form of meditation known as “Effortless Mindfulness.” Unlike traditional meditation techniques that focus on concentration, Effortless Mindfulness encourages a shift from your small, thought-based sense of self to your open-hearted awareness, considered to be your true nature.
This technique is designed to help practitioners move beyond the mental chatter and access a more expansive, tranquil state of consciousness. Kelly emphasizes the importance of not just recognizing this awake awareness, but also stabilizing and living from this place in our everyday lives.
What Makes Loch Kelly Stand Out?
Loch Kelly’s teachings are distinguished by several unique characteristics:
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Integration of Eastern and Western Practices: Kelly seamlessly blends Eastern spirituality with Western psychology and neuroscience, making his teachings relatable and accessible to a broad audience.
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Emphasis on Effortless Mindfulness: His signature technique moves away from concentration-based practices, focusing instead on accessing a natural state of awareness.
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Practical Application: Kelly’s teachings are designed to be immediately applicable in daily life, enabling individuals to live from a place of open-hearted awareness consistently.
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Professional Expertise: His extensive background as a licensed psychotherapist and leader in the field of mindfulness provides him with a comprehensive understanding of the human mind.
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Accessibility: Through books, online courses, workshops, and retreats, Kelly’s teachings reach a wide audience, regardless of their geographical location or experience with meditation.
A Taste of Effortless Mindfulness Meditation
Here’s a simple example of Loch Kelly’s Effortless Mindfulness meditation:
Start by taking a few deep breaths, allowing yourself to become present. Let go of any effort to control your experience. Notice the feeling of being aware. Ask yourself: “What is aware?” or “Who is aware?” Let the question guide you towards the awareness itself. Rest in this awareness, noticing its spacious, open, and effortlessly present nature. If you get caught up in thoughts, return to the question “What is aware?” and relax back into open-hearted awareness. Continue to rest in this awareness for as long as you like. As you end your meditation, try to maintain this sense of open-hearted awareness throughout your day.
Conclusion
Loch Kelly’s Effortless Mindfulness approach offers a refreshing perspective on meditation, making it accessible and beneficial for both beginners and experienced practitioners. By integrating Eastern and Western practices and emphasizing practical application, Kelly’s teachings have the potential to transform your daily life and lead you to a state of open-hearted awareness.