Date: 04/19/2025 04/20/2025
Location: Star Ocean Meditation Center
Teacher: Sara
Sitting Meditation
The Roots of Joy Arising in Meditative Absorption
Joy in meditation is not sensory excitement nor emotional pursuit. It arises naturally when the body-mind relaxes, awareness stabilizes, and grasping loosens. Quiet yet nourishing, it signals genuine progress in practice.
1. Joy Is Not Sought Externally
1.Not object-based pleasure
It does not rely on conditions.
2.Not emotional excitement
It is calm and grounded.
3.Not self-satisfaction
Free from pride and possession.
2. Where Does Joy Arise From?
1.Physical and mental relaxation
Tension releases energy.
2.Continuity of awareness
Inner unity emerges.
3.Reduced grasping
Resistance fades.
3. Conditions in Meditation
1.Stable attention
Mind remains present.
2.Clear awareness
Neither dull nor agitated.
3.Body-mind harmony
Breath, posture, and mind align.
4.Effortless attitude
No fixation on outcome.
4. Functions of Joy
1.Nourishing concentration
Sustains practice.
2.Stabilizing the mind
Prevents regression.
3.Encouraging depth
Invites further settling.
4.Preventing dryness
Keeps practice alive.
5. Skillful Relationship to Joy
1.Non-attachment
Joy is impermanent.
2.Accepting its fading
Letting it come and go.
3.Prioritizing awareness
Awareness surpasses joy.
Conclusion
Joy in meditation is not an end but a natural response to harmony. Understanding its roots allows steady progress without attachment.
