We’re delighted to announce the release of This Fresh Existence by Cindy Rasicot.

Within its pages lies the compelling story of Bhikkhuni Dhammananda, Thailand's first fully ordained Theravada Buddhist nun, a figure of resilience, and an emblem of spiritual dedication.

Why read This Fresh Existence?

Inspiring journey: The book chronicles the life of Venerable Dhammananda, documenting her transition from a scholar and mother to becoming the first Thai woman to receive full bhikkhuni ordination in the Theravada tradition. Her story is a testament to courage, change, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.

Deep spiritual insights: Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or someone new to Buddhism, Venerable Dhammananda shares valuable experience and teachings on compassion, mindfulness, and the significance of her ordination to the Theravada tradition.

Cultural and historical significance: The narrative provides a unique lens into the challenges and triumphs of women in Buddhism, offering us an understanding of the evolving role of women in religious practices and the significance of their contributions.

Buy the Paperback (UK) / Buy the Paperback (USA) / Buy the eBook

A passage to ponder

Rasicot's writing invites us into the transformative power of spiritual guidance:

"I felt a tingling sensation around my head that permeated me completely like a soft light filtering down to my heart. In a moment of complete consciousness, I felt her transmission and sensed an intuitive voice from deep inside telling me I would be a catalyst for her teachings, spreading her message of love and compassion throughout the world."

Endorsements from leading Buddhist figures

Jack Kornfield, author of A Path with Heart, describes the book as "a beautiful dialogue with a wonderful and wise teacher. Dhammananda is a courageous pioneer, a nun who embodies blessings and points us to our inner freedom and compassion."

Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo, founder of Dongyu Gatsal Ling Nunnery and co-president of the International Buddhist Confederation, highlights Venerable Dhammananda's "immense courage and innate dignity" in taking on the historic role of restoring the Fourfold Sangha. Despite "extreme criticism and personal denunciation," she has trained generations of women in the monastic role, continuing to inspire many to go forth as bhikkhunis in the Theravada tradition.

Sharon Salzberg, author of Lovingkindness and Real Life, commends Rasicot for painting "an inspiring picture of the woman responsible for reviving the bhikkhuni order in Thailand," tracing her journey from scholar and TV personality to one of the first ordained nuns in modern-day Thailand.

Listen to the podcast

In this episode, Cindy speaks about meeting her teacher Venerable Dhammananda, and responding to her challenging message of kindness and forgiveness rather than anger and hatred. The podcast conversation covers what it is like to be a student and disciple, different ways of practice in Asian and convert American Buddhism, and the radical transformation that can come with the healing practice of the Medicine Buddha.

About the author

Cindy Rasicot worked for many years for non-profit organisations. In 2005 she moved to Thailand from North America with her family, and it was here that she met Bhikkhuni Dhammananda – an encounter that changed her life. She started the online Casual Buddhism series to give more people access to Bhikkhuni Dhammananda’s gentle and powerful wisdom.

Upcoming events

Join us online for the global book launch on 23rd April on Zoom at 19:00 BST (UK Time) / 11:00 PDT / 14:00 EST