Answers to Questions on the Contemplation of the Four Foundations of Mindfulness: 9

Question: During mindfulness observation practice, the mind is constantly focused on an object, specifically on the breath. However, the flow of breath is intermittent, the pathway of its movement is not clearly discernible, its speed is very fast, and the form of the breath flow cannot be clearly seen—it passes in an instant. What should be done in this situation?

Answer: When the mind focuses on the breath, initially there may be an involuntary tendency to hold the breath. During this breath-holding, the breath may seem to stop flowing and feel interrupted. When meditative concentration is still insufficient, the mind remains somewhat coarse and cannot observe more subtle dharmas (phenomena) or finer details. Consequently, one cannot perceive where the breath is moving, is prone to lapses of mindfulness, and cannot keep up with the speed of the breath flow. At this stage, it is necessary to continue deepening meditative concentration and the power of contemplative observation. Do not rush or be eager for quick results. An impatient mind becomes agitated and hinders the arising of meditative concentration. The skill in meditative concentration needs to gradually become sufficient and increase; quantitative change leads to qualitative change. When meditative concentration reaches a certain level, the mind will become more refined, and the dharmas observed will also become deeper and more subtle.