Meditation Tips and Reflections

“When we practise the kammaṭṭhāna, we should do so in a relaxed manner. Let us make ourselves comfortable and maintain a good mood. Don’t make yourself stressed by taking it too seriously, until you are always frowning or scrunching up your face.

If you want to sit in samadhi well, but find that you have to always force yourself, then you will get bored soon. But if you know some special techniques and tricks, then you will enjoy meditation and never get tired of it.

Luang Pu Doo had many such strategies, until Luang Ta ordained to become a monk!

When you are praying, you can always talk to Luang Pu through his photos. You may consult him on various matters. It is an enjoyable affair. Be in a good mood.

If you feel pain or stiffness after sitting for too long, you don’t have to tolerate or endure the pain. You can stretch out your legs, go take a look at the birds or the trees while continuing to pray.

As your mind is at ease and comfortable, you will generate much more merit.

But be diligent to continue your meditation in every posture of your daily life, whether you are standing, sitting, walking or lying down.

When Luang Ta was a layman, I had only photos of Luang Pu in my room, on each and every wall. No matter which direction I turned, I would always see Luang Pu. When I lay down, I would look at Luang Pu and chanted until I drifted off to sleep. This happened everyday.

Whenever I finished work and reached home, I would be very tired. But this is normal, as I have been working all day. I would arrive home, then take a shower, bow to the Phra, then started praying, and then went to bed.

It is not that I sat in front of the Buddha or Phra statue for hours in meditation. It is not like that. Rather, you must set your mind to praying and chanting until you fall asleep.

Chanting is similar to singing a song. What’s the difference?

If we keep repeating the katha, our minds can become one-pointed, they become one with the chanting. What more do you want?

You just need a little patience. When you are starting out, you are still not used to it. You will need some determination, some diligence and some perseverance. It is like the Iddhipāda.

Do you have an intention or purpose?
Are you willing to make an effort?
Are you paying attention to your mind and thoughts?
Are you using your paññā in wise consideration?

Don’t be complacent. A single hair can hide the mountain in the distance (Thai proverb).

But when you finally get it, you will go ooooh.”

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