Motivation

Experiencing direct presence awareness can help us to deepen our connection with our inner self and to stay in the moment. In our hectic world, this practice can help us find peace and clarity.

Background

Immediate presence awareness is a central aspect of Dzogchen, a teaching of Tibetan Buddhism that emphasizes the natural generosity and clarity of the mind. It invites us to simply be present beyond concepts and thoughts, without attachment or rejection.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Find a quiet place where you are undisturbed.
2. Take a comfortable seated position, either on a chair or on a cushion on the floor.
3. Gently close your eyes and focus your attention on your breath. Feel yourself inhale and exhale without controlling it.
4. Open your awareness to all the sounds around you, without holding onto them or fighting against them.
5. Shift your attention to physical sensations, whether pleasant or unpleasant. Let them simply be without reacting to them.
6. Expand your awareness to your thoughts and emotions, observing them like clouds in the sky that come and go.
7. Become aware that you are this awareness that experiences everything without holding onto it.
8. Abide in this state of pure awareness without expectations or goals.
9. When you are ready, slowly open your eyes and gently return to the present moment.
10. Take time to reflect on how this exercise was for you and what insights you have gained.
11. Practice this regularly to deepen your ability for immediate presence awareness and integrate it into your daily life.
12. Enjoy the peace and clarity that can spread in your mind and life.

Final Reflection

Immediate presence awareness can lead us to a deeper connection with ourselves and our surroundings. It allows us to be present and clear in every moment, without being distracted by thoughts or emotions. Through regular practice, we can discover and cultivate the natural generosity and clarity of our minds.