CALMNESS ARISES NOT DEPENDING ON THE OBJECT, BUT ON THE ATTITUDE

| Taiwan Retreat 2018 Q&A 10 (50:15-55:55)

Yogis think that the mind can only calm down if it observes only one object. But the more objects, the calmer the mind becomes. Why?

Calmness arises not depending on the object, but on the mind’s attitude.

The mind can be calm when we eat or do things fast. Even when we jog, if we are aware of our steps continuously, the mind will also calm down. The body can be running fast, but the mind is very calm.

Calmness comes from continuous awareness and right attitude, no matter how busy you are.

Swimmers are very aware of their body movement. The body is moving fast, but the mind is very calm and mindful, particularly in competition. That’s how they can pace themselves to set new records.

If the mind has no defilement, the mind is never tired – it becomes more and more relaxed, light and comfortable during practice. The mind is tired because of defilement.