Jeff Brooks is a simple householder who has maintained a contemplative life for over 30 years. His contemplative lifestyle has been based upon a daily practice of study, reflection, journaling and meditation. Through this practice path he has studied many of the contemplative traditions of the major religions of the world, as well as various shamanic traditions. As a consequence of his rigorous practice and study he acquired a degree in Anthropology from the University of Arizona. Jeff also has degrees in Fine Art and Creative Writing, and is an accomplished artist and poet.
While Jeff can articulate a contemplative practice regimen within almost any cultural and religious context, he most often teaches based upon the teachings of the Buddha, as found in the Pali canon, because he has found these original teachings are the least culturally determined practice strategy and philosophy that he has yet found. He has also found the Buddha’s teachings to be very clear and precise.
He is also the founder of the Great Western Vehicle, which is a 4th wheel Buddhist tradition that seeks to teach Buddhist philosophy and contemplative practices within the context of any culture or religious tradition. Jeff’s main interest all along has been the study of the mystics, such as Sidharta Gotama; Saints Francis of Assisi, Theresa of Avila and John of the Cross; al-Hallaj, Rumi and Kabir; Isaac Luria and the Ba’al Shem Tov of Turin; and Sankara, Sri Ramakrishna and Ramana Maharshi. Jeff has also studied a wide range of shamanic traditions from Aborigine to Zuni.
Mr. Brooks now travels around the country leading meditation retreats, giving lectures and instructing students. Jeff speaks from personal experience regarding the experiences of the mystics, because he lives his contemplative life, and it has born fruit. Therefore he can speak authoritatively regarding your experiences as well.