Autumn FireThis Bangs Lake sunset image was taken in Autumn. The intriguing aspect of this photo is the contrast between cloud colors with the explosive result mirroring the lake.

Hello and welcome to my Meditation and Mindfulness Image Portfolio Blog. Wow, that was a mouthful...  Anyway, welcome!  My main focus is nature and outdoor images which include landscape, sunset, wildlife and abstract nature. These words represent the first blog entry for my Zenfolio collection of images. I am no stranger to blogging. Peripheral to photography, I am also a traditionally published author of the Responsive Universe and I have written independent articles for MindBodyGreen and All Things Healing.

In my writing I research and discuss the internal struggles of ego and false-self and its polar opposite; the indestructible essence of True Nature that we all possess. Through creative and unique meditations and daily life practices, the goal of my wellness writing is to bridge science with spirituality and create a guide book of sorts that leads the reader to self-discovery and  ultimately to a stronger, more meaningful level of happiness. 

The ambition behind my photography is to bridge the literary realm with a world of images that tell their own story. Like meditation, photography is a journey of mindfulness.  When I am outdoors and immersed in nature; looking for objects and scenery to photograph, I am totally present in the moment at hand. No thoughts about the past or future; my mind is completely invested in the moment that is now. There is nothing that is more sublime, authentic and unadulterated than finding yourself totally present and aware. It is in the present moment that self-discovery and enlightenment wells.

PhotosynthesisYou cant help but be impressed with the chlorophyll content of this leaf. I love taking shots of normal, average things and finding interest in the minute details. This was shot at Devils Lake State Park in Wisconsin.

I love shooting images that would seem normal or even somewhat mundane to the average eye. You might be thinking: Well that does not sound very enticing...  The thing is, I love spending time with an ordinary object and by being present and self-actualized; I look for something interesting and or beautiful to capture for the world to see. Much of my close up and abstract images focus on this  concept. Have you ever stopped to revel in the detail of a tree leaf or grains of sand on a beach? Who has the time, right? We need to find the time for such splendor! There is so much detail to discover when you are completely rooted to the present moment at hand. Finding the patience to look for the intricate details is in itself a meditation. I also have a soft spot for sunsets. The afternoon sky is like a blank canvas and then as the sun sets, it is like real life art being painted or conceptualized before your eyes. Each sunset so different from the next. Dusk is my favorite time of day!

I hope you enjoy your time here and please feel free to stay awhile and explore the different portfolios. Don't forget to bookmark this site and check back for new images from time to time. Life is a journey... Might as well take a camera along for the ride... Talk to you soon!

John C. Bader

John C. Bader is a photographer, wellness advocate and consultant specializing in spiritual self-evolution, meditation, and bio-energy healing. In his writing, he bridges science with spirituality and provides steps to encourage more mindfulness in daily life. His new book, The Responsive Universe – Illumination of the Nine Mandalas is a step by step process on how to begin your very own Hero’s Journey.

About the Book: www.responsiveuniverse.com

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