1. What is Meditation?
Meditation is often misunderstood as the process of stopping all thoughts. In reality, attempting to stop thoughts is like trying to stop the waves of the ocean—it only creates more turbulence. Meditation is not control; it is simple awareness. It is training your mind to witness thoughts without getting swept up in them.
"Sitting silently, doing nothing, spring comes, and the grass grows by itself. Rest in your being."
2. Finding Your Sitting Position
You do not need to sit in a complex full-lotus position. The most important key is finding a posture where your spine is straight but not stiff. You can sit on a comfortable cushion, a chair, or even lie down if sitting is physically painful. Let your hands rest softly on your lap, and relax your shoulders.
3. Viewing Thoughts as Passing Clouds
As you close your eyes and focus on your breath, you will notice that your brain is incredibly busy. You might recall chores, feel sudden itchiness, or worry about tomorrow.
Treat these thoughts like clouds passing across a wide, blue sky. You are the sky—spacious, quiet, and unaffected. The clouds (thoughts) enter your space, float for a while, and eventually dissolve. Do not fight them; just watch them pass.