PRACTICE
Small instructions for returning attention inward.
Not a method to become something.
Only a reminder to remain as you are.
SELF-INQUIRY
When thoughts arise:
“To whom does this arise?”
Answer:
“To me.”
Then ask:
“Who am I?”
Do not answer mentally.
Remain as the one aware.
THE PRACTICE
Do not fight thoughts.
Do not follow thoughts.
Simply return.
Again and again.
THE BODY
Care for the body simply.
Walk.
Stretch.
Move naturally.
The body is an instrument, not the Self.
READING
Read little.
One paragraph.
One verse.
One truth deeply absorbed is better than many collected.
SILENCE
Sit quietly.
Not to gain anything.
Not to become peaceful.
Simply remain.
ATTENTION
Notice where attention goes.
The mind moves toward objects.
Gently return attention inward.
THOUGHT
Thoughts are not the problem.
Following them is the disturbance.
Let them pass naturally.
THE WORLD
Let the world be.
The past is memory.
The future is imagination.
Remain with what is here now.
STILLNESS
Stillness is not created.
It is uncovered when movement settles.
Be still.
BREATH
Do not control the breath harshly.
Let it soften naturally.
A quiet breath supports a quiet mind.
EMOTION
Do not suppress emotion.
Do not build identity around it.
Let it arise and dissolve.
SUFFERING
Ask:
“To whom does this suffering appear?”
Trace it back to the “I.”
Remain there.
THE EGO
The ego is only a thought:
“I am the body.”
Question it.
See if it truly exists.
THE HEART
The Heart is not physical.
It is the source from which the sense of “I” arises.
Return there.
DEVOTION
Surrender the mind to God, Self, or Silence.
True surrender and true inquiry end in the same place.
DAILY LIFE
Practice while walking.
Practice while speaking.
Practice while working.
Remain aware of being.
REST
Do not strain.
The Self is not attained through force.
Relax inwardly.
BE AS YOU ARE
Nothing new must be added.
Nothing real can be removed.
Remain as you are.