This week in our exploration of the Eight Fold Path and the Reiki Precepts  we discuss the second factor that enables us to develop a concentrated mind: right mindfulness.

In the Satipatthana Sutta, Buddha tells us, mindfulness is: “the direct path for the surmounting of sorrow, for the disappearance of pain and grief”. He tells us to “contemplate the body as a body, feelings as feelings, mind as mind, mind-objects as mind-objects”.

You may like to begin this practise simply by observing your breathing. Ensure you are sitting comfortably, with your back straight and supported. Ensure you will not be interrupted. Now, in a state of loving-kindness and compassion, simply observe your breathing. Observe without judgement or expectation.

This practise teaches us to become fully aware of ourselves at all times. Aware of our bodies, feelings, state of mind and thoughts. It teaches us to be aware of the impermanence of all that is.

You can further practise mindfulness by:
Observing your body as you walk, eat or rest.
At intervals, throughout the day, ask yourself ‘how am I feeling right now?’
At intervals, throughout the day, ask yourself ‘what is my state of mind, right now?’

People with anxiety or anger management issues find the practise of mindfulness helps them to manage their behaviour and responses.