Why do we turn to meditation? Is it only to become empty?
In fact, emptying the mind is an important initial stepping stone for people new to meditation.
Why is that?
Meditation is not actually an effort to empty the mind or stop thinking. This misunderstanding discourages many people as they begin their meditation journey. Instead, meditation is a process of training our attention and awareness of the present moment.
When practicing meditation, we do not try to stop thoughts, but learn to observe them without being swept along.
Is there a way to respond when many thoughts arise? It means developing the ability to recognize when the mind wanders and gently return attention to the object of meditation. This may be the breath or a body part such as the abdomen, nose, tip of the nose, and so on…
The True Purpose of Meditation
Rather than seeking emptiness, meditation helps us:
- Developing awareness and full presence in life
- Clearer awareness of patterns of thought and emotion
- Reduce automatic reactions and increase the ability to respond consciously
- Nurturing compassion for yourself and others
- Creating distance between yourself and negative thoughts
The passage above is taken from the book the book Anyone Can Meditate. A book explaining many misconceptions about meditation that you may also have encountered.
Wishing you many benefits and diligent progress on your meditation journey!
Khóa học liên quan tại Inti School: Thiền Thức Tỉnh 7 Ngày
