"Vajra Cave: A Basic Daily Practice For Solitary Buddhists" is a compassionate and practical guide tailored for Western converts to Buddhism, especially those navigating the Vajrayana path without a local sangha. Written by Christopher Mark Doyon, a solitary practitioner and self-described "Dharma Bum," this book distills the essence of Gautama Buddha's teachings into a straightforward daily routine that anyone can adopt, regardless of their circumstances. It's a lifeline for those asking, "I'm a Buddhist-now what?"-offering clear, actionable steps to build a meaningful practice in solitude. A Guide Rooted in Experience Doyon, a former devout Christian who embraced Buddhism 15 years ago, draws from his journey as a wandering hermit living with his two rescue dogs, Prince Xander Bai II and Prince Xavier Fox. Dedicated to these "Bodhisattva dogs" who he credits with saving his life, the book reflects his personal evolution from a mountaintop Refuge ceremony to a disciplined daily practice. Practical Tools for Solitary Practice The heart of Vajra Cave lies in its structured yet flexible framework for daily practice, designed to fit into modern Western lives. Key components include: Daily Meditation: Simple techniques like Samatha (calm abiding) to cultivate focus and peace, starting at just five minutes a day. Sacred Space: Step-by-step instructions for creating a home shrine, from a closet corner to a portable kit, complete with Buddha statues, incense, and prayer flags. Dharma Study: Recommendations for accessible scriptures (e.g., the Pali Canon, Mahayana Sutras) and tips for building a free digital library. Buddhist Prayer: Insights into Vajrayana prayers like the Seven-Line Prayer to Guru Rinpoche, paired with spiritual tools like malas and prayer wheels. Precepts & Vows: Guidance on taking Refuge and Bodhisattva Vows, even remotely, with reflections on ethical living. Renunciation: Practical advice on letting go of attachments, from caffeine to luxury, without requiring a cave-dwelling lifestyle. Internet Sangha: A modern twist, leveraging online communities, apps, and resources to connect with a global Buddhist network. For the Solitary Western Buddhist This book shines brightest for those practicing alone, addressing the unique challenges of isolation in a Western context. Doyon acknowledges the difficulty of finding a teacher or community, offering solutions like the "Internet Sangha"-online platforms, AI tools like Sati-AI, and virtual reality medit