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Mindfulness as Nourishment and Healing
Enlightenment is possible in the here and now through the practice of mindfulness. It is the capacity to be aware of what is occurring in the present moment, such as knowing one is breathing in or recognizing the presence of anger or irritation. A moment of awareness is a moment of enlightenment (đốn ngộ). The opposite of mindfulness is forgetfulness, where one walks, drinks, or acts without being truly present. Maintaining mindfulness throughout the day, whether focusing on breathing, walking, or dishwashing, allows the mind and body to become one and helps cultivate freedom.
Freedom is the foundation of happiness and is reclaimed through mindfulness. Without freedom, one lives as a slave to the past, future, projects, and afflictions. By generating the energy of mindfulness, daily activities like mopping the floor or sitting meditation become moments of pleasure and healing rather than hard labor. The practice consists of two aspects:
- Nourishing: Utilizing the joy of meditation as daily food (thiền duyệt vi thực) to receive nourishment from refreshing elements within and around us.
- Healing: Becoming truly present to embrace suffering, pain, and the wounded child within with tenderness and compassion.
Meditation is an engaged practice, not an escape from reality. It provides the vigor and intelligence needed to handle the events of daily life with compassion and skillfulness. Every step and every breath can serve as spiritual food that provides peace and transformation. By lighting the lamp of mindfulness, every moment—whether sitting, standing, or lying down—becomes a gift and an opportunity for the body and mind to heal themselves. Peace Is Every Step.
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Chanting & Monastic Talk