@algancao – On Meditation for Pain

Meditation is challenging to the mind in that it requires one to focus on something boring. Ultimately the mind gives up and just shuts up. Fri Jul 24 15:29:29

What remains with stilled mind the Taoists call the “host”, while the verbal part is the “guest”. We ARE the host, the brain is the guest.

From the perspective of the host mind, sensations of the body (thoughts too) can be seen as something transitory, happening to someone else.

In meditation, pain can be perceived as happening to the body, but not to you. You feel it, but it is like it isn’t your problem.

This is the difference between pain and suffering. Pain is sensations that arise within awareness. Suffering is when we make it personal.

When there are no thoughts, all that is left is “the witness” (host). All that we are is “that which notices”. Not the story of the guest.

This is where personal narrative gives rise to suffering. We confuse the movie we’re watching with ourselves. Of course we all do that.

I’m not saying there is a single point in meditation practice where there is no more suffering. But you can get a lot closer with practice.

When I’m sitting in a full lotus position, after 30 minutes my right foot goes numb and some deep aches arise. They come, then they go.

All sensations arise then go away, just like everything. Knowing this allows me to sit with the “pain” and simply observe, not fight it.

Many paths describe non-resistance to sensations. Pain that is resisted = suffering. They encourage acceptance, calm, looking within, etc.

In my own life, a focused gaze at sensations that arise from emotions, causes them to melt away. It is the resistance that gives them power.

Some Buddhist traditions talk about “equanimity.” No craving of pleasure sensations, no aversion to unpleasant sensations. All come then go.

Those with chronic pain may benefit by removing their victimization narrative from their awareness by transcending ego thru meditation.

Self-importance -> attachment to personal narrative -> suffering. Transcendence of the personal ego -> pain, but without suffering.

I like asprin too. My favorite wonder-drug. :)

Last modified: September 9, 2009  Tags: , ,  ยท  Posted in: Tweetz