The sense of 'the other' is always a part of our experience, it's what consciousness does. Rather than giving attention to the other, practice with recognizing what the other signifies and what it activates in me.
In standing posture, begin with sensing the whole form – what’s around that and what’s in that. Body can be sensed in layers, starting with a basic sense of presence to the most primary level of “I am”, the sense of being a distinct object.
Many of us are susceptible to certain perceptual signals that communicate codes of obligation and pressure. Citta becomes secondary to these signals and we lose our sense of wholeness, balance and presence. The advice is to pause and check in with the subjective sense, the “I” before the “am”. As you come into wholeness its energies can change, and we can stop going back to our “I am” habits.
Martin answers questions from students on the closing night of the retreat. Subjects covered include Martins own relationship to dharma practice, questions about integration, exploring Buddhist teachings and working with various obstacles.
Beginning with standing position, take time to sense the space around that is non-intrusive, safe. Strengthening from the ground up, through the arch of the foot, and sending signals down, rooting. When you do feel centered you can maintain a center – that’s the most important thing.
