Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Effort: Abandoning Arisen Unhealthy States

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RIGHT EFFORT Abandoning Arisen Unhealthy States Whatever a person frequently thinks about and ponders, that will become the inclination of their mind. If one frequently thinks about and ponders unhealthy states, one has abandoned healthy states to cultivate unhealthy states, and then one’s mind inclines to unhealthy states. (MN 19) Abandoning restlessness, one abides unagitated with a mind inwardly peaceful; one purifies the mind of restlessness. (MN 51) Just as a person who had been a slave, unable to go where he liked, would be freed from slavery, so would one rejoice and be glad about the abandoning of restlessness. (DN 2)

Reflection The most basic meditation instruction given at the start of any session is to relax the body and the mind. This is because restlessness is so prevalent in our lives. The mind cannot begin to see clearly until it has settled down and rid itself of distractions. This text likens attaining a peaceful mind to feeling liberated from slavery, a powerful image indeed. As Bob Marley sings, “Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery.” Daily Practice “None but ourselves can free our minds,” Marley continues. It is inevitable, and often outside our control, that our mind is put in chains by deadlines, multitasking, and the expectations of others. But we can free ourselves from this, if only for a few moments here or there or once a day when we sit down to practice. It can feel wonderful to “rejoice and be glad” when we are able to slip the bonds of mental slavery now and then. Tomorrow: Establishing Mindfulness of Feeling and Abiding in the Second Jhāna One week from today: Developing Unarisen Healthy States Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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