meditation is the central practice

Meditation was practised long before Gautam Buddha came into being. But Gautama in his teachings emphasised meditation. He brought the spotlight back to this simple practice of being still, being present, of allowing the thinking mind to settle, allowing gaps to develop between thoughts. This is the art of meditation and in Gautam Buddha’s teachings, it takes the central place in discipline, in the methods we apply to further our spiritual growth.

Much of Gautama’s teachings relate to how the mind works, but with meditation we are going beyond the thinking mind. We are entering spaces of consciousness where thoughts have no place, where the mind is still and silent, where the great potential of existence is felt directly, unmoving and yet full of energy.

So for the followers of Gautam Buddha, meditation was a key part of their life. Sitting silently, allowing the mind to settle, we too can benefit from practising meditation in this way. All our problems are born of our restless mind. And allowing that restlessness to subside, making space for some tranquillity in our thinking mind, this is what meditation is about. And setting aside some time each day to be still, to be quiet, is a wonderful way to encourage this tranquillity of mind.

So let us follow the approach of Gautam Buddha. Let us also sit quietly each day. Let us also practise meditation.