Date:12/14/2024 12/15/2024
Location: Star Ocean Meditation Center
Teacher: Sara
Sitting Meditation
Guarding Against Attachment to Calm States
Calm naturally arises in practice, but attachment turns it into an obstacle. Clinging to tranquility subtly tightens the mind.
1. Recognizing Calm as an Object
If calm is known, it is an object.
Whatever is observed is not ultimate.
This distinction is essential.
2. Impermanence as Reminder
Calm arises and passes.
Clinging creates unease.
Its impermanence reveals emptiness.
3. Relaxation as Resolution
Do not maintain or defend calm.
Do not fear losing it.
Relaxation stabilizes naturally.
4. Clarity as Balance
Attachment to calm leads to dullness.
Awareness must remain bright.
Clarity preserves balance.
5. Non-Comparison as Protection
Do not compare states.
Comparison disturbs stability.
Remain with what is.
6. Equanimous Observation
Calm and restlessness are equally known.
Neither preferred nor rejected.
The middle way appears.
7. Awareness as Core
Awareness is fundamental.
Calm is secondary.
Do not reverse them.
8. Non-Abiding as Completion
Calm comes—no resistance.
Calm goes—no pursuit.
The mind abides nowhere.
Summary
When calm is clung to, it obstructs. Non-attachment allows tranquility to serve practice.
