Questions and Answers on the Practice of the Four Foundations of Mindfulness 29

Question: I have an experience where sometimes when I am tired and irritable, I easily become slack, feeling like I'm not in a good state. How can I adjust this?

Answer: Everyone has many karmic obstacles. When obstructive conditions arise, spiritual practice inevitably becomes difficult, leading to slackness. The process of spiritual cultivation involves progress and regression—sometimes diligence, sometimes slackness. After karmic obstacles manifest, feelings of irritability emerge. At such times, one cannot concentrate and is unable to maintain diligence, leading to slackness. When this happens, one should intensify the recitation of the Shurangama Mantra, using the mantra's power to eliminate karmic obstacles, strengthen the resolve for enlightenment, and accelerate spiritual practice. The efficacy of mantras is immense. Relying solely on one's own strength to achieve success in practice is very difficult; one must rely on the blessings and power of the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Dharma protectors to shield us from some karmic obstacles and prevent interference. Only after eliminating some karmic obstacles can one continue diligently and ultimately achieve realization. Therefore, before attaining the path of insight, one must never interrupt the recitation of the Shurangama Mantra. Set a fixed quantity for oneself and persist daily. The power and blessings of the mantra are very great. Once accustomed to it, unexpected effects will arise, and one will transform without even realizing it.