Question (M): How can I develop mindfulness?

Question (M):  How can I develop mindfulness?

Than Ajahn:  You have to practice mindfulness all the time, not just when you meditate. You have to practice mindfulness from the time you get up. As soon as you get up, you should start reciting the mantra or concentrate on what you do. Don’t let your mind go think about France, about the virus, or about anything. Just concentrate your mind to be in the present, to be empty. Don’t let it think. If you can do this from the time you wake up, you will have mindfulness to meditate later on.

Question:  Does this apply also to my body such as my eyes i.e. what I see, what I hear using this body? 

Than Ajahn:  Yes, you can focus on what you do with the body. If you’re walking, just focus on your walking. If you’re brushing your teeth, just focus on brushing your teeth. Don’t let your mind go think about other things. Then, you will have strong mindfulness. When you meditate, you can become calm very quickly. You won’t feel any discomfort during your sitting.

Layperson:  Ok, thank you.

“Dhamma in English, Mar 22, 2020.”

By Ajahn Suchart Abhijāto
www.phrasuchart.com

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