As we continue to explore the transformative power of meditation, it is essential to understand the profound connection between stillness, mindfulness, and happiness.
Meditation is not a new practice—Buddhism has practiced mindfulness for over 2500 years, yet only recently has it gained the global attention it deserves. The true essence of mindfulness, however, is not just about being aware; it’s about cultivating a stillness that amplifies mindfulness and leads to a greater sense of joy and clarity.
When we allow the mind to become still, the practice of mindfulness deepens. Each thought, each decision, no matter how small, weakens this mindfulness. The more we learn to still our minds, the more energy we can channel into being present. This heightened awareness illuminates our world, making everything seem brighter and clearer.
Meditation, in its deeper stages, offers a unique experience where joy arises naturally. In these moments, you may find yourself becoming incredibly content, whether you are observing your breath or the state of your body. Meditation becomes an enjoyable process rather than a task. When you experience this, you know you are progressing in your practice.
One of the most profound aspects of deep meditation is the timelessness it brings. Time seems to vanish when you are fully immersed in the present moment. Without the distraction of past or future, you experience the present as if it were eternal. In these moments, meditation becomes effortless, and the experience of time fades entirely.
As you dive deeper into meditation, delightful experiences unfold. This sense of delight is not limited to the breath or the body, but can extend to any object of focus. I often use the example of meditating with a skull. Despite its seemingly macabre appearance, when the mind becomes calm and focused, even something like a skull can appear glowing and beautiful. This is the power of mindfulness—it transforms whatever you observe into something radiant and joyous.
The deeper you go, the more stillness is required. As your mindfulness becomes stronger, so does the joy you experience in your meditation. However, with these deeper states, two obstacles often emerge: fear and excitement. These emotional reactions can disrupt the process, but there is a way to overcome them.
The key is to remain perfectly still, not letting fear or excitement interfere. This concept is beautifully illustrated through a story from my teacher, Ajahn Chah. In his meditation practice, he would sit perfectly still by a jungle pool, allowing the animals to approach without being aware of his presence. Only when he was perfectly still could the animals, both ordinary and extraordinary, come near.
In meditation, this stillness is just as crucial. When you reach the deeper states, such as the appearance of bright lights or nimittas in your mind, any hint of excitement or fear can cause them to vanish. The practice of stillness ensures that these experiences remain.
To prepare for these states, I encourage a simple yet powerful technique—programming your mindfulness. Before starting a meditation session, make a mental resolution: “If a light appears in my mind, I will not be afraid.” This programming helps to calm the mind when the lights appear, allowing you to remain present and at peace.
As you move forward in your meditation practice, remember that the path to deep meditation is not about forcing or striving. It’s about allowing the process to unfold naturally, remaining still, and embracing the joy and peace that arise. Only through this stillness can you access the deep, transformative states of meditation that lead to profound happiness and clarity.
Ajahn Brahmavamso continues to inspire individuals worldwide to embrace meditation as a transformative tool for personal growth and well-being. Follow this video on https://youtu.be/Q27EcEm7zbU
Ajahn Braham’s visit to Sri Lanka- May 2025
For those interested in experiencing Ajahn Brahm’s teachings firsthand, he will be visiting Sri Lanka on May 16, 2025 for a public sermon at the BMICH. This will be a rare opportunity for individuals to learn from one of the world’s foremost meditation teachers and to connect with the transformative power of mindfulness and kindness.
He will also address teens and young adults, offering guidance on meaningful living, navigating life transitions, and managing emotional challenges,
At a time when stress and distractions dominate daily life, Ajahn Brahm’s teachings offer a path to true inner peace. His sermon will explore the power of mindfulness, kindness, and resilience in coping with modern challenges, helping individuals of all ages find balance and clarity. This event is an invitation to pause, reflect, and cultivate a deeper understanding of inner freedom. Seating is limited, and early reservations are recommended. Visit www.abssl.lk to reserve your seat.
