Sitting Meditation
Sitting meditation is like returning home to give full attention to and
care for ourselves. Like the peaceful image of the Buddha on the altar,
we too can radiate peace and stability. We sit upright with dignity,
and return to our breathing. We bring our full attention to what is
within and around us. We let our mind become spacious and our heart
soft and kind.
Sitting meditation is very healing. We realize we
can just be with whatever is within us- our pain, anger, and
irritation, or our joy, love, and peace. We are with whatever is there
without being carried away by it. Let it come, let it stay, then let it
go. No need to push, to oppress, or to pretend our thoughts are not
there. Observe the thoughts and images of our mind with an accepting
and loving eye. We are free to be still and calm despite the storms
that might arise in us.
If our legs or feet fall asleep or begin
to hurt during the sitting, we are free to adjust our position quietly.
We can maintain our concentration by following our breathing and
slowly, and attentively change our posture.
Sometimes in between sessions
of sitting meditation, we practice Kinh Hành, which is indoor walking
meditation. We take one step with each in-breath and another step with each out-breath.
Aware of the Sangha around us, we feel in harmony with the larger body.
Everybody is moving together, slowly, and mindfully.
We can find
suggestions for guided sitting meditation sessions in Thầy’s book, "The Blooming of a
Lotus".
We should arrive
five minutes before the meditation period starts so that everyone is
comfortably seated before the bell is invited to formally begin the
session. We should not enter the hall after the bell has been invited.
If we are late for sitting meditation, please remain outdoor and enjoy
walking meditation.
