There is not a single path to a quiet mind. There are six schools of yoga, ten+ different schools or denominations of Buddhism and their sub-sects, and the four main branches of Hinduism and their sub groups all have multiple different meditation methodologies. So do the various pagan gatherings, and nondenominational groups. Even within Buddhism there are over 40 different variations of meditation depending on need, personality and situation. What's important is not necessarily where the key to the doorway came from but rather, what is effective for you. And in the end, no tradition or religion by itself will liberate you and bring you lasting peace. The space you are in right now, right here is enough.
Try these out:
Dropping Labels
Look up from your screen and close your eyes. You may still hear the outside world but there's no need to name any sound or even consider on the sound. After a few minutes, open your eyes and look around without naming or labeling anything. Begin with whatever is directly in front of you and gaze upon it without naming it. This puts space between the thing and your interpretation of the thing.
Present with Your Thinking Mind
Noticing your thoughts immediately puts space between thoughts and slows momentum. Ask yourself: what is the quality of my thoughts? Notice the quality and let go of the content. Put your loving awareness, your attention, on the space created.
Mantras
Mantras. Repeated phrases that train the mind to focus. There are many mantras that have an aim or ambition (mantras for protection, mantras for stillness, mantras for connection), some thousands of years old. Those practicing manifestation create a sort of mantra. Mantra practice is uncomfortable for some, powerful for everyone. Make your own mantra, adopt an established mantra, say it or sing it. (where there is a very active + harsh mind, singing will nuture you through to peace.)
I love this mantra:
Noticing Space While Listening
Notice both the words and the spaces between words. It's there. Pay attention without any idea what a person will say next. You are at ease and giving attention completely to both the words and the space.
Spaciousness in a Loud Environment
This space isn't only available in a quiet room while sitting still. You could be in a perpetually loud environment and access stillness, this quiet. What if the sound is unpleasant? There is space before we name it and put a label and judgement about it. Try it. You are outside and a loud machine is working. We could certainly prefer to hear a mountain stream, but here we are with this machine. Without labels or judgements, there is only the sound. The sound can exist and we don't need to suffer from experiencing it.
Put your attention on the space within you as often as you are able during the day. This peace is available to you anytime.
Acceptance and Surrender
Acceptance of what's here right now begins with acknowledging what is already here, right now. Check in with your body. Is there pain and tightness? Hot or cold? Where is the sensation? Is there peace and comfort in the body? Where is it? Notice the mind. Is it still? Is it commenting. Close your eyes. Put your attention on the sensations in the body, and the state your mind is in right now. without adding more thoughts about the thought or sensation. Acceptance means you're no longer fighting or running away from the sensation or the busy mind. You're here for whatever is here.
Now put your attention immediately around you, gently noticing. Now put your attention on your breath, how you are naturally breathing right now. Acceptance is the pathway to peace.
Body Scan
Move your attention to one part of the body, keeping your attention there for a few minutes. Do this with each part of the body until you are holding your entire body, your entire energy field with you complete, devoted attention.
Much love,
Parker
