In a recent meditation session, renowned teacher Ajahn Brahm shared insights on the often-misunderstood physical sensations that arise during meditation, offering a profound perspective on the body’s natural healing capabilities. He emphasised that movements and warmth experienced while meditating can be signs of the body releasing tension and promoting self-healing.
Body movements in meditation
Ajahn Brahm addressed a common concern among practitioners: what happens when the body moves or contorts during meditation? He explained that as individuals settle into deeper states of mindfulness, their bodies may instinctively shift into positions that allow for the release of built-up tension and facilitate healing. “When you let go of control,” he noted, “your body knows much better than you where it needs to place itself.”
He recounted an anecdote from a retreat where he witnessed a participant in an extreme position during meditation. After the session, she reported feeling wonderful and relieved from pain caused by a past injury. Ajahn Brahm highlighted how, in moments of deep stillness, the body can take the opportunity to heal itself, often resulting in unexpected physical movements.
Compassionate awareness
A core aspect of Ajahn Brahm’s teaching is the importance of compassion and kindness towards oneself during meditation. He pointed out that many practitioners inadvertently tighten their bodies when they focus too much on controlling their physical sensations. Instead, he urged meditators to cultivate an attitude of non-judgmental awareness. “When you observe something, there’s a tendency to interfere with its natural state,” he explained. “By letting go of control and approaching your practice with kindness, you create space for healing.”
Personal anecdotes
Throughout his talk, Ajahn Brahm shared compelling stories of individuals who experienced profound healing during meditation. One notable example involved a participant who felt intense warmth in her shoulders, a lingering symptom of a whiplash injury. After inquiring about her experience, she revealed that she had never felt so relaxed in that area before. This warmth, Ajahn Brahm explained, was not merely a sensation but rather an indication of the body sending energy to areas in need of healing.
He emphasised that such experiences are common among meditators and should not be feared. Instead, they should be embraced as part of the healing journey. “If you feel warmth or notice unusual movements in your body during meditation, understand that this is healing taking place,” he reassured the audience.
Embracing the present moment
A vital aspect of Ajahn Brahm’s teachings is the emphasis on present moment awareness. He encouraged participants to leave behind the distractions of the past and future. “In meditation, no past and no future are allowed in; this moment is all that matters,” he stated. By anchoring their awareness in the present, meditators can cultivate a peaceful state of mind and enhance their overall well-being.
Ajahn Brahm guided attendees through a meditation exercise, encouraging them to focus on their breath while allowing thoughts and tensions to dissipate. He reminded them to approach the practice with gentleness, allowing their breath to return to its natural rhythm. “It’s about training yourself to let go, step by step,” he said.
In summary, Ajahn Brahm’s teachings underscore the transformative potential of meditation. By fostering a compassionate attitude and embracing the healing power of the body, practitioners can navigate their meditation journeys with greater ease and understanding. Ajahn Brahm encourages all meditators to trust their bodies, let go of control, and immerse themselves in the present moment—where true healing and peace reside.
As the session concluded, participants were left with a renewed sense of purpose in their meditation practice, equipped with the understanding that the path to wellness is often found in simply letting go and being present.
Listen to this Dhamma talk on Youtube https://youtu.be/pD0Z9jo838E
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.
