Daily exercises for developing presence and relaxation

In meditation we may have exceptional realizations which break through our conceptual ways of dealing with experiences, and these realizations help us to see from a more enlightened point of view. We contact the calmness and clarity which lie below the conceptual level. Meditation is then our refuge, for we can call on it whenever we need it to give balance. Taking refugee in ourselves in this way gives a stronger basis and greater confidence to cope with everyday life. This is refuge at a higher level.

Day 10 – Meditation Exercise

We breathe. We feel. We notice.

We are not noticing anything in particular, not picking objects out of the background. We are just noticing; just relaxing.

Notice, then relax; then notice some more, and relax some more.

Maybe this is less complicated than we think, and less conceptual; maybe there is no point that could not be opened, if we are gentle and patient enough.