Editorial Reviews 
Synopsis  
A gift to any woman intrigued by Buddhist art, philosophy, or meditation, this book explains the basics of Buddhism in a clear, warm, personal way. We learn the fundamental teachings of Buddhism; we read stories of important Buddhist goddesses, nuns, and laywomen from the past; and we examine traditional contemporary Buddhist attitudes toward women. Also includes beginner meditations and a directory of female Buddhist teachers. 

Do women take a unique approach to spirituality? What are the elements of the Buddhist path, and what particular challenges might a Western woman face in beginning a Buddhist practice? What profound benefits does Buddhist practice offer to contemporary women? Opening the Lotus investigates these questions. Part primer, part personal history, part guide to spiritual practice, this book opens the door to an understanding of Buddhist spirituality, which is engaging more and more Westerners as the millennium approaches. Sandy Boucher, author of a groundbreaking study of women and Buddhism and a longtime Buddhist meditator, explores Buddhism's basic beliefs, its history, its female images of the divine. Through personal anecdotes, lively explanations, and thoughtful discussions, she presents a female perspective on fundamental Buddhist teachings such as compassion, detachment, and enlightenment. 

The author, Sandy Boucher Sandbou@aol.com , July 21, 1999 
making buddhism accessible 
My intention in this book is to open the beautiful lotus of Buddhist teachings to everyone, whether you have ever thought of Buddhism or tried to meditate or not. The book is about learning to slow down, become quiet, and listen to the messages of your deeper nature. In this sense the book speaks as strongly to men as to women. And I've included some concerns of women when they encounter Buddhist teachings, some questions frequently asked. So--please enjoy this book, and open your heart to the teachings. 

The publisher, Beacon Press , April 22, 1999 
More praise for "Opening the Lotus" 
"In this follow-up to 'Turning the Wheel: American Women Creating the New Buddhism,' Sandy Boucher presents her own distinctive and down-to-earth understanding of this religion. She believes that the basics of Buddhism--meditation, dharma study, compassion, the interrelationship of all life, and loving-kindness--are especially appealing to women. Boucher discusses what she has learned from Ruth Dennison, her spiritual teacher, and the insights she gleaned during a six-week stay in a Sri Lanka nunnery. There is an excellent chapter on Kwan Yin, the goddess of compassion, and Tara, the goddess of action. Throughout the book, Boucher presents examples of how Buddhist practice can bring peacefulness and insight into one's life. She ends with a directory of female Buddhist teachers throughout the United States and around the world. 'Opening the Lotus' is a triumph of clarity and feminine wisdom."--Body Mind Spirit