As we navigate the journey of self-discovery and personal growth, we often come across the idea of clearing our minds or thoughts as a means to achieve inner peace. However, this approach may not be the most effective way to understand ourselves and our human experience. Instead, we should strive to befriend our minds and thoughts, viewing them as expressions of our humaneness that may be connected to deeper aspects of our being. By shifting our perspective and embracing our thoughts, we can create more space around them, reducing suffering and fostering discernment.
Our thoughts often hold vital information about our fears, desires, and intuition. By acknowledging and befriending them, we recognize their importance as signals that can guide us in our personal journey. Instead of trying to suppress or clear our thoughts, we should listen to them, exploring their origins and significance. This allows us to gain a deeper understanding of our inner world and fosters a connection with our true selves.
In order to make this shift, it is crucial to change the way we identify with our thoughts. We can envision our minds as vast skies, with our thoughts being the clouds that drift by. By identifying with the sky rather than the clouds themselves, we create space around our thoughts, allowing them to come and go without causing distress or suffering. This mental spaciousness enables us to observe our thoughts more objectively and gain insight into their true nature.
Once we have achieved this new perspective, we can begin the process of discernment, distinguishing between thoughts that stem from our intuition and those that originate from our ego. Intuitive thoughts often carry valuable insights that can guide us on our path, while ego-driven thoughts may be rooted in fear, insecurity, or attachment. By discerning the source of our thoughts, we can better understand ourselves and make conscious decisions that align with our values and goals.
Although for many, mediation is only being in total silent mind, we can also use these moments for introspection and learning about ourselves. When practicing meditation, it is essential to remain present and grounded in your body. Allowing your intuition and inner wisdom to guide you, thoughts and feelings may surface, revealing deeper insights about yourself. Instead of denying or abolishing these thoughts, observe them neutrally, accepting their presence. In surrendering to what is, we find liberation.
Thoughts that arise during meditation can be traced back to various origins. Some may stem from a programmed mindset that no longer aligns with our truth, while others may offer valuable insights into our self-understanding. Creative ideas can also emerge, driven by our intuition or inner being. Additionally, thoughts may be linked to feelings and emotions related to past, present, or future experiences.
During meditation, it is equally important to observe any feelings or sensations that arise without judgment. These emotions often have thoughts behind them and should not be taken lightly. Delving into the layers of thoughts and emotions can help us uncover their origins and better understand ourselves.
For example, imagine feeling a sudden wave of sadness during meditation, which you identify as guilt for not doing something you believe you should have done. Instead of dismissing this emotion, explore the thought behind it. Ask yourself if it is true that you should have done that particular task. Determine if there is any action you can take now to rectify the situation. If there is, take that action. If not, accept the reality and acknowledge that you did your best, or recognize that the belief driving this thought may not be true. By examining and working through these thoughts and emotions, you can grow and transform yourself.
Embracing this introspective approach to meditation allows for a powerful process of self-growth and liberation. By observing our thoughts and feelings without judgment, we can decipher the messages they hold and the impact they have on our lives. This practice enables us to distinguish between intuitive and ego-driven thoughts, ultimately guiding us towards greater self-awareness and inner harmony.
In summary, the practice of meditation should not focus on clearing our minds or thoughts, but rather on engaging with and understanding them as essential components of our human experience. By shifting our identification and remaining present, we create space around our thoughts, reducing suffering and fostering discernment. This profound process of self-discovery and growth can lead us to greater liberation and fulfillment in our lives.
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