In a recent meditation session, revered teacher Ajahn Brahm shared profound insights into the nature of visions that can arise during practice. He emphasised that these experiences, often beautiful and captivating, serve as opportunities for deeper self-awareness and joy.
Ajahn Brahm said that as practitioners settle into a peaceful state of mind, they may encounter vivid mental images—shifts away from the physical into the realms of the mind. “When your body calms down and you focus on the breath, you create space for the mind to explore its own world,” he said. He reassured participants that the quality of these visions is far more significant than their content. “If you feel joy, peace, or bliss, that’s what matters most,” he said, encouraging attendees to embrace these moments fully.
For those who encounter unsettling visions, Ajahn Brahm offered a playful perspective. “Don’t worry about it,” he advised. Drawing from his own experiences, he recounted a time when a frightening monster appeared in his meditation. Instead of succumbing to fear, he humorously transformed the monster by imagining it wearing sunglasses and a straw hat. “I laughed and the vision disappeared,” he recounted, highlighting the importance of humor in dealing with fear.
The art of letting go
Ajahn Brahm emphasised that visions are natural and can be embraced as part of the meditation journey. “If you’re having fun, carry on. If you feel fear, turn it into something humorous,” he suggested. This playful approach allows meditators to engage with their experiences without the pressure of control or judgment.
Encouraging playfulness in practice
He challenged the notion that meditation must be a serious endeavour. “In Buddhism, we say ‘no fun, no Enlightenment,’” he said. The invitation to find joy in meditation is a core tenet of his teaching, encouraging practitioners to appreciate these moments as integral to their growth.
The path to deeper meditation
For those looking to deepen their practice, Ajahn Brahm advised focusing on the most beautiful aspect of any vision, which can lead to profound states of meditation known as jhanas. “Find the sparkle, the detail that captivates you,” he said. This focus not only simplifies the experience but also opens pathways to deeper tranquility.
As the session concluded, Ajahn Brahm encouraged participants to continue their exploration with curiosity and lightness. “Whatever visions arise, they are part of the journey. Enjoy them,” he said.
Listen to this Dhamma talk on Youtube https://youtu.be/dpVt9lJNhQ0https://youtu.be/W7JZGMREZoE
****
Join Ajahn Brahm in Sri Lanka – May 2025
Ajahn Brahm will visit Sri Lanka in May 2025, bringing his wisdom and humour to a wider audience. He will deliver a public sermon at the BMICH on May 18. This is a rare opportunity to experience his teachings first-hand and deepen your meditation practice under his guidance.
