The Trouble with Meditation

Liao Liao asked: The world of physical phenomena in my eyes is now dissolving. The bowl is still a bowl, the cup is still a cup, but they are all dissolving. The tactile objects that once troubled me the most are also dissolving now. When I walk, it often feels like I am stepping on cotton. I am afraid of lifting my feet too high, fearing that when I step down, there will be no solid ground beneath me, which gives me a feeling of emptiness in my heart and a racing heartbeat. In the most severe cases, I break out in cold sweat, my hair stands on end, and my heart palpitates for a long time. I am not entirely sure how to articulate it clearly; the entire underlying state is still and unmoving, and everything is one. Additionally, I am particularly sensitive to noise. A very small sound from outside sounds like thunder to me, which causes affliction and even more palpitations. My practice is based on reciting the Buddha's name, and I just keep reciting silently. Please, Master, give me your instruction.  

Answer: When meditative concentration arises and the mind becomes exceptionally still, one may become afraid of sounds and easily startled. In this situation, you must give yourself a psychological cue, reminding yourself to try to empty the sounds as much as possible, not to pay attention to them, to dwell in your own inner world, and simply focus on contemplation and reciting the Buddha's name. Additionally, you can put earplugs in your ears to block the sounds outside, so you won't be startled by them. The dissolution of physical phenomena is a good sign that occurs after meditative concentration arises, indicating that your mind no longer pays much attention to or cares about physical forms, gradually letting them become empty.

Not paying much attention to or caring about bodily sensations, letting them become empty and indifferent, is also a merit of meditative concentration. The fear of this emptiness, the cold sweat, the palpitations, and so on, occur because, with meditative concentration, the energy channels open to the legs and feet, so the legs and feet no longer feel the force of effort. It feels as if you are walking with legs that are not your own, which is why you fear stepping into emptiness. Over time, as you get used to it, this will pass. It seems that many people are practicing well; their skills have improved, they are on the right path, and there is hope. I estimate that at least half of you have experienced actual states in practice, with both body and mind undergoing some transformation. This is truly a cause for joy and celebration.