Tag Archives: Mindfulness

Mindfulness (Pali: sati, Sanskrit: smṛti; also translated as awareness) is a spiritual or psychological faculty (indriya) that, according to the teaching of the Buddha, is considered to be of great importance in the path to enlightenment. It is one of the seven factors of enlightenment. “Correct” or “right” mindfulness (Pali: sammā-sati, Sanskrit samyak-smṛti) is the seventh element of the noble eightfold path.
Enlightenment (bodhi) is a state of being in which greed, hatred and delusion (Pali: moha) have been overcome, abandoned and are absent from the mind. Mindfulness, which, among other things, is an attentive awareness of the reality of things (especially of the present moment) is an antidote to delusion and is considered as such a ‘power’ (Pali: bala). This faculty becomes a power in particular when it is coupled with clear comprehension of whatever is taking place.

The Dream Part 4: Meditation and Prayer

An interesting outcome of my dream was the inspiration to return to the Jesus Prayer as a personal mantra and meditation.  I had been in my new job for a couple weeks and my monkey mind had gotten worse.  Although I focused on deep breathing exercises during my commute and at stressful times, it did not help quiet my mind.

After the dream, I decided to give the Jesus Prayer another chance.  Just a simple meditation over and over again to blank my mind of earthly concerns.  Although the first day was a little awkward, by the third day I was in a Zen state of calm.  I discovered that the prayer cleared my mind in ways I did not expect.  Some days I still enjoy listening to the radio in my car but most days I turn off the radio, focus on the prayer, and just appreciate the moment.  I have seen more beautiful sunrises and sunsets in the last month than in the previous year.