Let's return to the idea of meditation-as-a-skill. You may know the idea that skill acquisition works in stages. In basic terms...
Conversation
Replying to
... we start out thinking a lot about how to do something (kick a ball, sing a verse...) and doing it in a very clumsy, mechanical manner.
1
Replying to
This gradually moves into a phase where practice is effortful, but more fluid and less error-prone.
1
Replying to
Eventually, you arrive at a stage where the skill can be applied autonomously. You can think, in some cases even talk, while doing it.
1
Replying to
This theory may have holes or flaws, but you can see how it relates to Zen and disciplines stressing effortless practice.
1
Replying to
Effortless practice is a level you get to after lots of effortful, often harrowing practice. But when you get there, it's the only way to go
1
Replying to
Because when you reach this level of refinement in any skill, *thinking* about it actually represses your abilities.
1
Replying to
Your advancement is contingent precisely on learning so many fruitful habits of action that it takes no thought to execute your skill.
1
Replying to
When you start thinking about it, you find your skill lowers to the level of the cognitive or associative stage. Deliberate and very clumsy.
1
Replying to
I've practiced enough meditation that for me, thinking about meditating makes me... not meditate. This is the key insight of Zen practice.
1
Replying to
But to get to the level where this even makes sense talking about, you do have to practice - slowly and deliberately.
Replying to
In every area where skill can be cultivated, people frequently fall into the trap of trying to imitate adepts before they practice anything.
1
Replying to
This is always a giant waste of time, and incredibly frustrating to attempt (been there, done that). You lack the necessary fundamentals.
1
Show replies