Contemplation | Padma Here & Now

Mindfulness

As taught in Yogasutra, the practice of smarty upa sthana(Buddhist) takes many forms, the details of which are taught in personal instruction. Himalayan tradition teaches the method of asanas coupled with full awareness of the states of body, breath and mind in a detailed methodology. In fact a major component in the practice of postures is self awareness, a deep self observation, in all states of body, breath and especially mind.

Breath awareness

It starts as part of mindfulness and becomes specialised as the very first step in the practice of meditation. Here it is essential to learn diaphragmatic breathing that is slow, smooth, without jerks and without a break between the breaths.

To breathe correctly in a manner conducive to meditation
To observe the breath flow, which has many variations
To do it for a long time without changing the technique
Wait for Kevala kumbhaka to occur naturally when the mind, woven with the very subtle breath, comes to a standstill and thereby brings the breath itself to a suspended state

The practice of breath awareness branches off into many other modes of meditative experience.

Four bad habits of breathing that need to be avoided:

Shallow breathing, with inhalation and exhalation being unequal
Jerky breathing
Noisy breathing, caused by blockage of the nasal passages
Pause between inhalation, exhalation, and the next inhalation

Mind, your true nature is light. Recognise your origins. The great Lord is always in your company. Do colour you with the wisdom of Gurus. Only the mind that recognises its roots comes to know the true meaning of death and life.

Effective techniques for a joyful life

Nonviolence
Truthfulness
Non stealing
Non possessiveness
Awareness
Contemplation
Acceptance
Contentment
Compassion
Trust & Surrender

Daily Affirmations for a balanced life

Expressing love through thought, word, and deed are the sure means for unlimited abundance, health, and pleasure. It is my birthright to enjoy these good things in life.
In every outgoing breath, my anxieties and worries are getting out. With every incoming breath, peace is coming in. I am happy Here & Now.
Past is past, gone forever. I forgive myself, as I forgive all others the wrongs they did to me. Now I can laugh at my mistakes, and others’ ignorance.
I am perfect just the way I am made.
My love heals, does not hurt others.
My one commitment in life is to enrich everyone around me.