Practice Library

Module 2: Foundations of Buddhist Meditation I: Shamatha · The Buddha’s Path

A module of The Buddha's Path study programme with David Oromith on shamatha, the practice of developing a calm, clear and single-pointed mind.

Shamatha is the practice of developing a single-pointed concentration in order to find a calm, clear and focused mind. This practice nurtures a state of mind that is simultaneously supple, relaxed, and alert, offering us a much-needed respite from daily life. Through shamatha practice, we let go of physical and mental stress, fostering mental and emotional balance. This process is not just about temporary relaxation; it works towards a deep, enduring sense of tranquillity and clarity within ourselves. The ultimate purpose of shamatha meditation, however, is to achieve shamatha itself, a state of samadhi or meditative concentration, where one is able to focus unwaveringly on a single object without distraction or tiredness. The Buddha strongly emphasised the importance of achieving shamatha in order to achieve personal liberation. Shamatha is, therefore, an indispensable practice for those seeking awakening. This module serves as a comprehensive exploration, giving us the tools and practices necessary to engage in shamatha training. Module #2 is part of The Buddha’s Path, our foundational study programme.

What this course covers

• Settling body, speech and mind in their natural states
• Mindfulness of breathing: whole body, abdomen and nostrils
• The nine stages of attentional development
• Taking appearances, and the mind itself, as the path
• The prerequisites for achieving shamatha

Sessions

1. Introduction, the Pursuit of Happiness, and Settling Body, Speech & Mind in Their Natural States 83 minutes
2. The Benefits of Improving Our Attention and Mindfulness of Breathing (Whole Body) 87 minutes
3. Etymologies, Why Mindfulness of Breathing, and Mindfulness of Breathing (Abdomen) 85 minutes
4. Mindfulness & Introspection and Mindfulness of Breathing (Nostrils) 79 minutes
5. The Nine Stages (1-4) and Dzogchen Approach to Mindfulness of Breathing 65 minutes
6. The Nine Stages (5-9) and Taking Appearances as the Path 83 minutes
7. Reaching Shamatha and Taking the Mind as the Path 84 minutes
8. Prerequisites for Achieving Shamatha and Awareness of Awareness 93 minutes