Saitpatthana Sutta is an ancient text that contains meditation techniques used by Buddhist monks to reach enlightenment.
As a Buddhist practice, mindfulness of feelings provides clarity when you ask, “How do I feel?” The significance of this inquiry for your everyday life becomes evident when you observe how any outside stimuli, however small, provokes your reaction. But its efficacy depends on a genuine interest in your current experience. “Contemplation of feelings … Read more
Mindfulness of mental states allows you to conduct a continuous inward monitoring by asking, “How is the mind?” From this perspective, outside events — where all our attention usually goes — become secondary. What really matters is your mind’s reaction to them. Developing this awareness is the main task of this mental exercise, which … Read more
You are never in complete control of your life. Letting go of this illusion realigns you with the flow of your current circumstances and lets them work for you rather than against you. This is what mindfulness meditation can help you achieve by providing insight into the three marks of existence. Contrary to popular … Read more
In Buddhism, meditation means “mental culture.” One of its main aims, among other things, is to cleanse your mind of impurities and disturbances. The main obstacles to achieving this goal are the five hindrances, which erode the foundation of your conduct in its mental, verbal, and physical dimensions. “It is helpful to explore the … Read more
Last month, I wrote about contemplation of the five hindrances. Overcoming these defiled states of mind leads to purification of your conduct in its mental, verbal, and physical dimensions. With such solid foundation established, you are ready for the next step in your practice — mindfulness of the seven awakening factors. “Cultivation of the seven … Read more