Samatha then vipassana ?

Weychin SG

2009novice SG

Hi Weychin,
I don't know where to begin with in this post
I also face difficulties in meditation, being mindful of each breath

I felt that whatever "monkey" or "elephant" comes is just the 5 hindrances present in our mind. Sloth and torpor vs restlessness. Closing both eyes completely will induce sleepiness, so try to open the eyes a bit if you face the "elephant"... but avoid fully open states because the "monkey" may come

Weychin SG

The fives hindrances is basically our untamed state. I stopped having an adversarial relationship with. I just let it wander initially and observe when I am able to.

Weychin SG

I practice with my eyes wide open, that is why I only deal with "monkey", one adversary at a time.

Faded SG

What is this "absorption"? How does it feel like? How do you know when you are there?

Weychin SG

I can only speak of my own experience, there are probably meditators who have achieved deeper states.

Weychin SG

I was usually meditating in the day, in a bright and noisy environment. As such, my experience may differ from others.

Weychin SG

Typically, if in the quiet, eyeballs shudders sideways and eye glazes ahead and the visualization deity will becomes glowing in reflection. Sort of stands out.

2009novice SG

AN 4.170: Yuganaddha Sutta — In Tandem {A ii 156} [Thanissaro].

Weychin SG

Thanks for the links!