Will Johnson’s ‘Radical Path Of Somatic Dharma’ Revitalizes Meditation Practices For The Modern World

In a bid to transform traditional meditation practices, bestselling author and embodiment coach Will Johnson introduces his latest work, “The Radical Path of Somatic Dharma: Radiant Body, Radiant Mind.” 

In the book, released in January, Johnson challenges the conventional notion of meditation, advocating for a dynamic and body-oriented approach. The director of the Institute for Embodiment Training and founder of Bambu Hueco in Costa Rica argues that the modern practice of seated meditation has become stagnant and disconnected from the physical experience.

According to Johnson, focus on thought, rather than embodied experience, results in a numbing of our connection to our physical self and the dimming of the bodys natural somatic radiance, which can lead to chronic pain and discomfort. The book features a variety of practices, including 14 meditations, that promote a deeper connection with the body.

“In this evocative and important book, Will Johnson teaches us how to enter fully into our human incarnation and our deepest experience of being alive. He shows us that meditation, when fully embodied, is not about disconnecting from life, but rather about liberating us for life in all its beauty, intensity, and nuance,” said Reginald Ray, Ph.D., Buddhist teacher and author of “Somatic Descent.”

Drawing on techniques from diverse traditions, such as Buddhist, Sufi, and somatic wisdom, as well as teachings from Ida Rolf and Judith Aston, Johnson aims to rejuvenate meditation practices.

According to Johnson, the thought-focused mode of rigid seated meditation promotes holding tension in our bodies and virtually guarantees that awakening will not occur.

The book delves into the inevitable cultural evolution of Buddhist practices as they move westward. Johnson envisions a Western Dharma that is distinct from Asian traditions, integrating modern elements like the Rave movement and psychedelics.

With “The Radical Path of Somatic Dharma,” Johnson invites readers to transform their meditation practices into “The Great Wide Open” — a realm of enlightened bodily radiance through the conscious art of sitting.