|
Mindfulness
or awareness (sati), is the seventh step on the Buddha's
Noble Eightfold Path. Mindfulness is a quality of mind which
clearly apprehends experience and observes it in a non-interfering,
non-judgmental manner. Normally, each experience we have triggers
desires, thoughts and memories and these prevent us from seeing the
experience as it actually is. The purpose of mindfulness meditation
is to strengthen the ability to be mindful and then use it to observe
the body, feelings, mind and the contents of the mind. In time these
things come to be seen as non-substantial, fleeting, impersonal
phenomena and a calm detachment towards them arises. Even from a
mundane point of view this has numerous benefits. If this mindful
detachment can be maintained in daily life, one can remain unruffled
in the face of provocation and develop more contentment and
peace of mind. Thus the Buddha said: 'Mindfulness is
helpful everywhere' (S.V,156). Mindfulness also has a crucial
role to play in the enhancement of wisdom. See Illusion
and Words. |
|
Search BuddhismAtoZ.com
|
