For me the ability to access this self-compassion signaled a significant shift that allowed me to move from paying attention to the words of the critic to feeling the pain they inflicted. Since that time, there is no longer a cell in my body that wants to let such thoughts in. There is a quiet strength in the ability to rest in that tender place. Vulnerable it is; weak it is not. It reminds me of a quote from the ancient texts that says, “Make your heart as vast as space, so big that nothing can harm it.” When our hearts are that wide, it is as if the judgments are ripples on water, flowing away and leaving no trace. This is what vulnerability makes possible. It allows the natural strength of the heart to emerge.
Mark Coleman
Residential Retreat Teacher
Mark has trained extensively in the Buddhist tradition, both in the Insight meditation and in the Dzogchen tradition. He is a senior teacher at Spirit Rock Meditation Center and has taught insight meditation retreats since 1997.
Mark is a life-long nature lover and is passionate about guiding people into the beauty of meditation and nature. He has led wilderness nature retreats worldwide for over twenty years. Through his organization Awake in the Wild Mark leads year long nature meditation teacher trainings in the US and Europe.
Co-founder of the Mindfulness Training Institute Mark also leads year long professional mindfulness teacher trainings in Europe and the US.
He is author of Awake in the Wild - Mindfulness in nature as a path to self-discovery, Make Peace With Your Mind, From Suffering to Peace and his recent book A Field Guide to Nature Meditation.
He lives in Sausalito, Marin and likes nothing more than hiking, biking and kayaking in the outdoors.
Mark Coleman's Upcoming Programs
Retreat | On-Land
Saturday, February 22 | 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
The Power of Loving Awareness: Meeting Adversity with Compassion and Clarity
5.5 CE Credits. Mindfulness and love are essential, beautiful qualities of an awakened life. Combined, they allow a kind embrace of the pain and struggles that arise in ourselves, each other, and the world. Throughout our time together, we will discover how these qualities are essential in responding to the stresses and suffering that are part of being human. We will also consider how they are necessary in any journey of awakening and in learning to live wisely in the midst of difficulty.
Mark Coleman
Training | On-Land Non-Residential
April 5 - June 28, 2025 | 4 Sessions | 12:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Awake in the Wild Nature Meditation Program: Nature-Based Mindfulness Practices to Enhance Joy, Wisdom, and Well-Being
12 CE Credits. In these uncertain times, with much of life lived virtually, it is essential that we stay connected to our bodies, our senses, and the earth to access wisdom and perspective. Throughout this program, we will explore nature-based awareness and heart-based meditations that open us to joy, insight, and peace. Immersing ourselves in the beautiful landscapes of Spirit Rock, we will cultivate mindful attention, opening our hearts to receive nature’s wisdom teachings about impermanence, selflessness, and the inter-connection of all life.
Mark Coleman
Upcoming Drop-Ins
Drop-in | Online
Monday, January 27 | 7:15 PM - 9:15 PM
Monday Night Meditation & Talk
For over 35 years, the Monday Night sitting group at Spirit Rock has been a welcoming refuge to gather, hear the teachings of the Buddha, and practice Insight Meditation together as a community. The program includes a 30-40 min guided meditation, a short break, and a Dharma talk.
Mark Coleman
Dharma Library
Can't join us live online or on the land? Study and practice at your convenience with Mark Coleman through our new library of recordings, articles, and self-paced online courses.
