Mindfulness of Breathing Also Serves to Cultivate the Mind

The practice of contemplating the breath should not be focused solely on the physical body; diligent effort must also be applied to the mind. After all, the cultivation of all Dharma methods is ultimately for the cultivation of the mind. The mind is the master of the body. Once the body is regulated to a certain degree where it no longer disturbs the mind, effort should then be directed towards the mind. When the mind is well-regulated and becomes tranquil, the body will naturally follow and become harmonious. Ultimately, all diligent effort is focused on the mind, and the body no longer requires excessive attention.

After rising from meditation, observe the reactions of body and mind during interpersonal interactions and when encountering various circumstances. What is the state of mind? How do afflictions manifest? What changes occur in mental attitude? These are the results following contemplative practice and are the most revealing indicators. Has the mind expanded? Has the capacity to accommodate others increased? Is consideration given to problems from a longer-term, more macro perspective? Has compassion for sentient beings grown? Has the sense of responsibility strengthened? Has the great Bodhicitta increased? Is the resolve for the Path (Dao Xin) firm? Is the mind connected to Buddhism and sentient beings? These are the standards by which to examine one's practice. If one still falls far short, then one remains distant from the realization of the Path (Jian Dao) and must continue to strive diligently, applying effort with the mind.

Dedication Verse: With all the merit generated through Dharma propagation and group practice on our online platform, we dedicate it to all beings throughout the Dharma Realm, and to the people of the world. We pray for world peace and the cessation of wars; may all conflicts and hostilities cease forever. May all disasters completely subside! May the people of all nations unite in mutual assistance, treating each other with kindness. May the weather be favorable and the harvests abundant; may nations be prosperous and people live in peace! May all sentient beings deeply believe in cause and effect, harbor compassion and refrain from killing; may they widely form wholesome connections and extensively cultivate virtuous deeds; may they believe in the Buddha, learn the Buddha Dharma, and increase their wholesome roots; may they understand suffering, abandon its causes, aspire to cessation, and cultivate the Path; may they close the door to the evil destinies and open the path to Nirvana! May Buddhism flourish eternally and the true Dharma abide forever; may the burning house of the three realms be transformed into the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss!