Ajahn Brahm, a revered bhikkhu and meditation master, has spent decades teaching people how to find inner peace and tranquility amidst the chaos of life. His unique approach simplifies advanced meditation techniques, making them accessible to everyone. Ajahn Brahm highlighted that the key to successful meditation lies in focusing on peace rather than being distracted by discomfort. Instead of resisting disturbances like pain or noise, one should gently guide attention toward peacefulness, allowing the distractions to diminish.
Ajahn Brahm often teaches that what we focus on becomes our reality. He uses metaphors, like comparing the mind to a TV screen, to illustrate that we have control over what we focus on. By focusing on calmness and areas of ease, rather than disturbances, peace can grow. He encourages meditators to redirect their attention away from discomfort, allowing it to fall away naturally as serenity takes its place.
Lessons from Ajahn Brahm’s Teacher, Ajahn Chah
Ajahn Brahm also draws on the teachings of his mentor, Ajahn Chah, particularly one of his famous lessons: “Noise doesn’t disturb you; you disturb the noise.” This wisdom points to the idea that our perceptions shape our experiences. Rather than being overwhelmed by problems, we can choose to focus on peace and contentment, allowing difficulties to fade into the background.
By applying this principle, Ajahn Brahm encourages meditators to let their challenges—whether physical pain or emotional stress—remain at the periphery of their awareness. As the focus on peacefulness grows stronger, the importance of those challenges diminishes. This practice fosters a more relaxed and joyful mind, free from the struggle that often accompanies discomfort.
Healing beyond meditation
Ajahn Brahm’s insights extend far beyond the realm of meditation, providing valuable lessons for everyday life. He shares stories from real-life experiences to illustrate the power of attention, such as the tale of a Singaporean schizophrenia specialist who dramatically improved patient outcomes by focusing on the healthy parts of the mind. By shifting attention away from illness, the specialist enabled healing and recovery to take place, proving that what we choose to focus on can profoundly impact our lives.
This philosophy underscores AjahnBrahm’s broader message: the way we direct our attention can significantly affect not just our meditation practice, but also our approach to life’s challenges. Whether dealing with personal hardships or mental health issues, focusing on the positive aspects can create space for healing and transformation.
A unique approach to meditation
AjahnBrahm’s teachings are not about suppressing thoughts or forcing discomfort away, but about changing how we relate to these experiences. By gently shifting focus to the peaceful aspects of the mind and body, meditators can experience liberation, even in the midst of difficulties. His relatable, often humorous teaching style makes spiritual practices approachable and impactful for people at all levels, from beginners to seasoned practitioners.
