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Meditation is a simple yet profound method to improve the
quality of our lives. Through following very simple, practical
instructions we can learn to let go of the causes of our pain
and dissatisfaction and to gain the inner peace and clarity we
seek.
Learn more about these topics by clicking on the titles below
What is meditation
Breathing meditation
Benefits of meditation
Meditation posture
Objects of meditation
Meditation posture
When we practice meditation we need to have a comfortable
seat and a good posture. The most important feature of the
posture is to keep our back straight. To help us do this, if we
are sitting on a cushion we make sure that the back of the
cushion is slightly higher than the front, inclining our pelvis
slightly forward. It isn't necessary at first to sit
cross-legged, but it is a good idea to become accustomed to
sitting in the posture of Buddha Vairochana. If we can't hold
this posture, we should sit in one which is as close to this as
possible while remaining comfortable.
The seven features of Vairochana's posture are:
- The legs are crossed in the vajra posture (they cross each
other). This helps to reduce thoughts and feelings of desirous
attachment.
- The right hand is placed in the left hand, palms upwards,
with the tips of the thumbs slightly raised and gently
touching. The hands are held about four fingers width below
the navel. This helps us to develop good concentration.
- The back is straight but not tense. This helps us to
develop and maintain a clear mind, and it allows the subtle
energy winds to flow freely.
- The lips and teeth are held as usual, but the tongue
touches against the back of the upper teeth. This prevents
excessive salivation while also preventing our mouth from
becoming too dry.
- The head is tipped a little forward with the chin slightly
tucked in so that the eyes are cast down. This helps prevent
mental excitement.
- The eyes are neither wide open nor completely closed, but
remain half open and gaze down along the line of the nose. If
the eyes are wide open we are likely to develop mental
excitement, and if they are closed we are likely to develop
mental sinking.
- The shoulders are level and the elbows are held slightly
away from the sides to let air circulate.
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