Opening Up

Through mindfulness — the ability of the mind to observe the mind and body as they are in the present moment — we can gain a deeper understanding of the nature of the mind: constantly moving, shifting, and subject to change. Opening Up is a meditation practice that combines a mindfulness-based approach with relaxation, where the cultivation of a positive emotion is held as an intentional goal. This not only makes the meditation intrinsically rewarding but also allows a natural opening of the mind to become noticeable. By gently relaxing the body and consistently releasing tension as it arises, the mind opens, becomes lighter, and naturally taps into profound states of joy and calmness. These refined and peaceful states of awareness are traditionally known as the Jhānas. They are natural expressions of a calm and collected mind. From this open and spacious state, one can begin to see — on an experiential level — how the mind shifts into modes of tension and contraction. We can observe how the mind entangles itself and learn to release these restrictive patterns through understanding, allowing, softening, and intentional relaxation.

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