JUSTIN MICHELSON is a teacher in the insight meditation tradition with over twenty years of training at Spirit Rock Meditation Center, Insight Meditation Society, Vipassana-Metta Foundation, and Cloud Mountain Retreat Center. He is the founder and lead teacher for two meditation centers based in Eugene, Oregon-Nature's Heart- Center for Natural Mindfulness and the Eugene Insight Meditation Center.
“Justin Michelson reminds us that liberation from pain and trauma is not about bypassing suffering, but about meeting it with an openheartedness so deep that it becomes a doorway to awakening. Both a refuge and a roadmap, this book illuminates the boundless love and wisdom that lies within each of us, waiting to be uncovered and shared.” —Tara Brach, author of Radical Acceptance and Radical Compassion “There is good medicine and heartful wisdom in these pages.” —Jack Kornfield, author of A Path with Heart “Justin Michelson’s The Dharma of Healing marks the emergence of a significant voice in American Buddhism. The book is a comprehensive and fresh presentation of insight meditation for our time, expressing these venerable teachings in the age of climate crisis, integrating what we’ve learned about Dharma in the modern world (like the importance of attending to the psyche in spiritual life), offering thoughtful critiques of practices like mindfulness, and demystifying practice with concrete tips and exercises—all while standing surefooted in tradition. It is a generous and helpful companion written by an insightful author.” —Joan Sutherland, author of Through Forests of Every Color: Awakening with Koans “The Dharma of Healing is a beautiful guide for navigating the stress, pain, and trauma that is part of our daily lives. Justin Michelson writes from deeply experienced vulnerability and clarity, integrating contemporary understanding with ancient wisdom. The book’s emphasis on integrating mindfulness, self-compassion and spiritual healing illuminates a holistic path towards resilience, inner peace, and well-being. The practical exercises and inspiring reflections make his teachings accessible, interesting and deeply impactful. I found The Dharma of Healing to be a beacon of hope in our complex modern world.” —Kamala Masters, guiding teacher at Vipassana Metta Foundation and Insight Meditation Society