Resting in the Ocean of the Heart

In this meditation, one is guided into resting in the vastness and boundless nature of the heart, just like the ocean itself. Like the waves of an ocean, thought waves rise, abide, and dissolve. All experiences manifest in three stages; we witness the impermanence of all experience and return to stillness.

Transcript

Namaste. My name is Vishali. Thank you for joining me today. In today's practice, I'll guide you into the experience of the spiritual heart, Known as Hridaya, Which is not merely an anatomical heart. It is the inner sanctuary of our being. Open and spacious, Like the depth of an ocean. Boundless and infinite in nature, Known as Anant and Asim in Sanskrit. I wrote a meditation on resting in the ocean of the heart to share with you. To begin the practice, Assume a comfortable seated position as I lead you through this guided meditation. You may use a folded blanket or a cushion for support. Allow your body to feel steady and at ease. Let your spine rise softly, Creating a sense of openness and alertness. Soften your gaze if eyes are open or gently close them. Bring your attention to your natural breath. There is no need to change it. Simply notice it as it is. Feel the belly rising and falling with each inhale and exhale. Allow the gentle rhythm of the breath to anchor you in the present moment. Allow all the restlessness to be consumed by the waves of breathing. Breathing in through the nostrils and breathing out through the nostrils. Allow breath to be your guru, The one that guides you within. As you settle, Begin to sense the mystical, Ocean-like nature of the heart. Vast and open. Anant. Asim. Asim. Vast and boundless. Like the waves in an ocean, Thoughts, Feelings, Sensations and memories move freely in our awareness. Yet the heart, The Hridaya, Holds all experience and remains tranquil. Observe that all experience moves in three stages. Arising, Abiding and dissolving. When a thought or feeling or sensation arises, Simply acknowledge its presence. Allow it to remain for a moment, Just as it is. Without clinging or reacting. In time, It eventually fades and dissolves. Notice the impermanence of all experience. In the wisdom traditions, We call it Anika. Rest in calm, Open awareness. Whenever the mind drifts, Gently bring it back to the feeling of the breath. The belly rising and falling with each inhale and exhale. Allow all experience to arise, Abide and dissolve in its own time. Rest in the stillness of the heart. When you're ready, Gently bring your awareness back to your body, To the room and your surroundings. Take this feeling of calm, Balance and inner spaciousness into everything that follows. Bring your hands to the heart center in Anjali Mudra. Lightly drop your head towards your heart. We close the practice with a mantra, Om Shanti Shanti Shanti. Peace to all beings. Have a blessed day.