Shifting from Object-Focused to Subject-Focused Meditation
Sunny introduces a deeper level of meditation that goes beyond the traditional object-focused approach. Here’s a summary of the key points:
Object-Focused Meditation
- Involves keeping your attention focused on an object, such as the breath, a candle flame, or a body part[1]
- Helps calm the mind and train attention in the beginning stages of meditation[1]
- Has limitations as it only provides temporary relief, and the mind reverts to chaos once the meditation is over[1]
Subject-Focused Meditation (Self-Inquiry)
- Shifts the attention from the object to the subject, the one who is doing the focusing[1]
- Investigates the source of attention itself, rather than what the attention is focused on[1]
- When attention is turned inward, thoughts automatically dissolve, and you recognize your true nature beyond the mind and body[1]
- Allows you to dwell in the permanent, stable source of awareness rather than the unstable thoughts and emotions[1]
Guided Meditation
- Object-Focused: Focus on the breath, bringing attention back whenever thoughts arise[1]
- Subject-Focused: Acknowledge that you are focusing on the breath, then investigate where this attention is arising from[1]
- Become aware that you are aware, and rest in this recognition[1]
- When aware of being aware, thoughts dissolve, and you rest as your true self[1]
The speaker emphasizes that the purpose is not to chase a peaceful state or eliminate thoughts, but to recognize the constant awareness that underlies all experience. With practice, this subject-focused meditation deepens, leading to a profound realization of one’s true nature.
Citations:
[1] https://ppl-ai-file-upload.s3.amazonaws.com/web/direct-files/20587768/4cb0951e-996f-494c-b245-3546a6f1f2a8/paste.txt