An Introduction to Integral Life Practice

Adam LeonardArticle, Cognitive, Integral Basics, Integral Life Practice, Journal of Integral Theory & Practice, Lifestyle, Perspectives, Practice, Practice, Volitional Leave a Comment

Integral Life Practice — the conscious exercise of body, mind, and spirit in self, culture, and nature — uses the AQAL Integral map to orient the many growth techniques invented by humans throughout the ages. Practitioners achieve vertical and horizontal health through a cross-training synergy where growth in one area beneficially impacts other areas. An Integral Life Practice module refers to any accessible component of the human being capable of development. Four essential modules in an Integral Life Practice include the kinesthetic, psychodynamic, cognitive, and meditative. When creating their Integral Life Practice, beginners often go through the simple process of scanning their current practices, identifying gaps using the AQAL map, evaluating their commitment, choosing new practices, and practicing together diligently. Finally, we recognize the paradox that ever-present Awareness is the absolute context for all the relative development fostered by an Integral Life Practice.

Adam Leonard

About Adam Leonard

Adam B. Leonard is an educator, business consultant, author, entrepreneur, adventurer, and, of course, ILP practitioner. He was originally trained as a Foreign Service officer at Georgetown University and went on to pioneer the discipline of integral communication in graduate school. Adam specializes in applying the integral approach to individual, team, and organizational development. He has led ILP groups at several educational institutions. Adam co-authored the Integral Life Practice Starter Kit (Integral Institute, 2005) and The Integral Operating System (Sounds True, 2005), in addition to co-editing The Simple Feeling of Being (Shambhala, 2004)