Module 2: Foundations of Buddhist Meditation I: Shamatha · The Buddha’s Path
The Benefits of Improving Our Attention and Mindfulness of Breathing (Whole Body)
David Oromith · 87 minutes · recorded January 16, 2024
A guided meditation on mindfulness of breathing across the whole body, following a shortened settling of body, speech and mind, with David explaining why relaxation rather than forceful concentration is the foundation shamatha needs. He sets out the Buddha's four kinds of worldly happiness alongside the three genuine forms of well-being, then the everyday benefits of trained attention: less stress, better sleep, more enjoyment of ordinary moments. Questions address staying calm around family and over-focusing on the breath.
I encourage you to engage in this meditation practice once a day for the next week. The method is Mindfulness of Breathing focussed on the whole body, beginning with a briefer Settling Body, Speech & Mind practice. The emphasis in our practice this week is deeper and deeper relaxation, but without losing the wakeful, alert mind with which you began the practice. This kind of relaxation (which is a skill to be cultivated) will serve you well in the coming weeks and as our practice develops. An alternative version of this guided meditation from the weekly sessions held back in 2022.
Distraction and attention Relaxation Sleep and rest Mindfulness of breathing Shamatha (calm abiding)