The Optimal Time for Perfuming and Convincing the Manas

Western psychologists have stated that the optimal way for the subconscious to memorize information is to enter a drowsy, hazy state, or a state akin to sleep. In this state, all conscious efforts are minimized. Then, all thoughts can be transmitted to the subconscious through imagery in a quiet, passive, and receptive manner.

This is an excellent method to influence, persuade, and permeate the manas (the mental faculty). For cutting off the view of self and subduing afflictions, using this method of self-hypnosis is also the fastest and most effective approach. Self-hypnosis can directly enable the manas to discern and accept the non-self nature of the five aggregates.

During states of being relaxed, quiet, drowsy, or just waking up, there is samādhi (concentration). The mind is not scattered, yet consciousness is still present. The cognitive power of consciousness is relatively weak; it has a discernment function. Although its influence is slight, it can still observe the manas and transmit information to it. Meanwhile, the function of manas is more prominent and stronger than usual. Thus, this is the optimal time to influence, persuade, permeate the manas, and transform it.

The contemplative practice for cutting off the view of self is also most effective in this state. With samādhi present, consciousness present, and the function of manas strong, its susceptibility to influence is also great. This enables the concept of the non-self nature of the five aggregates to be conveyed and instilled into the manas, allowing the manas to recognize and accept it.