Open mind and open heart require open receptivity – listening without taking on, accepting without adopting. This requires the quiet power of embodiment – acknowledgement – which isn’t doing anything other than acknowledging. Things then shift and pass on their own.
The standing posture provides a simple process whereby energies can be balanced, soothed and steadied. Opening channels of the body so breathing can flow through, an open energy – light, spacious, repelling obstruction – becomes available.
It’s very helpful to start the day with resolution: What can I say no to? What can I say yes to? Using the precepts as a frame, generate boundaries that will moderate energies and help you remain firm and grounded in the face of the floods.
Help with hard-wired anger; how to think about ground, space and rhythm in a non-conceptual way; citta seems like a toddler; how to disengage from deep patterns of negativity; how to respond to boredom; is it recommended to thoroughly achieve samatha before moving on to vipassana; how to respond to deep pain in the heart; question about impermanence.
Worldly systems and structures keep us filled with activity, leaving us depleted and restless. What’s missing is pausing and discharging that any natural system includes. We can use the natural bodily system to reset body and mind and come into presence. This is where rest and replenishment are found.
Beginning with deep appropriate attention (yoniso manasikāra), attend to where your strengths and values are. Let them grow and be fully felt with awareness. This resources the heart so you can stand your ground in the face of the floods.
