Date: 06/08/2024 06/09/2024
Location: Star Ocean Meditation Center
Teacher: Sara
Sitting Meditation
Moment-to-Moment Awareness of the Arising and Passing of Thoughts
The arising and fading of thoughts reveal the true, subtle movement of the mind. When one can observe these shifts instantly, the mind is freed from being driven by thoughts and enters a state of genuine clarity. Freedom begins with seeing how thoughts come and go.
1. What Is Momentary Awareness of Thoughts?
It is the direct observation of how a thought arises from “nothing,” stays briefly, and dissolves back into “nothing,” without being absorbed in its content or influenced by emotional reactions.
2. Foundations of Thought Awareness
1.Noticing the initial arising of a thought.
2.Observing how the thought stays and changes.
3.Seeing the moment it dissolves.
4.Not engaging with the content of thoughts.
5.Using breath as an anchor for stability.
3. Benefits of Thought Awareness
1.Less mental reactivity: Freedom from automatic thinking.
2.Greater inner calmness: Thoughts gradually reduce.
3.Increased insight: Seeing patterns and habits behind thoughts.
4.Less emotional escalation: Thoughts no longer fuel emotions.
5.Restored autonomy of mind: From “being taken” to “seeing clearly.”
4. Methods of Practice
1.Observe the flow of thoughts during meditation.
2.Use the cycle “arising–staying–passing” as a framework.
3.Gently label thoughts: “thinking, remembering, planning.”
4.Notice the gaps between thoughts.
5.Return to breath or bodily sensations when carried away.
5. Facts About Thought Awareness
Do thoughts increase when observed?
At first yes, but they decrease as awareness stabilizes.
Do thoughts need to be controlled?
No—just avoid being pulled by them.
Does this awareness sharpen the mind?
Yes—while keeping it clearer and less disturbed.
Conclusion
Awareness of the arising and passing of thoughts is a gateway to understanding the mind’s true nature. When the mind can clearly see how thoughts appear, linger, and vanish, it is no longer controlled by them and naturally becomes clearer, steadier, and freer.
