Mindfulness and Meditation in the Modern World
Many people in different countries are angry about their situation because their legitimate desires are not satisfied. And they struggle to find a solution to this situation. Khenpo Sodargye introduces a method of meditation, which can efficiently solve this problem as long as one keeps practicing according to the method. At the same time, Khenpo makes some pertinent suggestions to African nations to solve some tough problems they face.
Buddhist Meditation Methods
The Importance of Meditation
We are constantly faced with pressure from life, work, family and relationships. In order to eradicate such pain and pressure, we need to adjust our mind to a peaceful state by practicing meditation, so that we can lead a meaningful and healthy life.
Buddhist Meditation Methods
There are three types of Buddhist meditation. First, in the Theravada tradition, one focuses on the four foundations of mindfulness, and through which one recognizes the nature of self. Second, in the Tibetan tradition, one trains in the nine stages of training the mind until the mind becomes stable and malleable. Third, in the Zen tradition of Han, one enquires on “who am I” or “who are you”, and upon such contemplations, one gradually comes to know the nature of self.
How to Recognize the Nature of Self
There are two methods. The first is to examine with wisdom to find out who the “I” is. Is the “I” the consciousness or the body? Through detailed introspection, one will realize that the “I” is non-existent and is empty; consequently, one starts to experience much fewer agonies. The other method is to allow the mind to calm down. When the mind is settled and relaxed, one will eventually understand the nature of self, and many obscurations such as fear and unease will naturally disappear. When the mind is pure and peaceful, the external environment will also become pure and peaceful.
Khenpo’s Experiences in Meditation
About my level of realization after meditation practice, I used to be very afraid of dying, however, through meditation practice I have understood that life and death in samsara are natural processes, and as a result of practice I am not so afraid now. More importantly, I feel full of love for others. My kindness embraces all sorts of beings, including enemies or strangers, which only grows stronger without regression.
Benefits of Meditation
Meditation can improve work efficiency and keep emotions undisturbed by external influences. Through meditation practices, many people have experienced a kind of blessing that generates a positive energy field around them which brings joy to their surrounding family and friends; their gentle glances and smiles also make people around them feel calm and peaceful.
Khenpo's Experiences in Meditation
About my level of realization after meditation practice, I used to be very afraid of dying, however, through mediation practice I have understood that life and death in samsara are natural processes, and as a result of practice I am not so afraid now. More importantly, I feel myself full of love for others. My kindness embraces all sorts of beings, including enemies or strangers, which only grows stronger without regression.
Buddhist Meditation Methods
There are three types of Buddhist meditation. First, in the Theravada tradition, one focuses on the four foundations of mindfulness, and through which one recognizes the nature of self. Second, in the Tibetan tradition, one trains in the nine stages of training the mind until the mind becomes stable and malleable. Third, in the Zen tradition of Han, one enquires on “who am I” or “who are you”, and upon such contemplation, one gradually comes to know the nature of self.
“Through meditation, many individuals who used to be impetuous and full of anxiety have pacified their minds, and are always happy regardless of what lives they lead. Everybody is able to attain this spiritual wealth that far surpasses the material wealth people chase after today.”
