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With the third
of the four foundations of mindfulness, or practices on which
mindfulness can be established, we learn to notice the effect of various
mental and emotional states on the way consciousness manifests in our
experience. A composed mind consists of a moment of coherence, unity,
tranquility, and internal harmony. Sometimes this happens, and sometimes
it does not. Simply be aware when it does and does not.
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When observing
the many changing mental states in your experience, it is important to
avoid getting attached to them. This is particularly difficult with
thoughts, which have rich content that can draw us into the story and
away from an attitude of neutral observation. This is why the
instruction to just be aware, to just be mindful, is so important. This keeps the mind moving forward and not clinging to anything.
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RIGHT CONCENTRATION
Approaching and Abiding in the Third Phase of Absorption (3rd Jhāna)
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With the fading away of joy, one
abides in equanimity. Mindful and fully aware, still feeling pleasure
with the body, one enters upon and abides in the third phase of
absorption, on account of which noble ones announce: “One has a pleasant
abiding who has equanimity and is mindful.” (MN 4)
One practices: “I shall breathe in concentrating the mind”;
one practices: “I shall breathe out concentrating the mind.”
This is how concentration by mindfulness of breathing is developed and cultivated
so that it is of great fruit and great benefit. (A 54.8)
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Tomorrow: Understanding the Noble Truth of the Way to the Cessation of Suffering
One week from today: Establishing Mindfulness of Mental Objects and the Fourth Jhāna
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Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.
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