Buddhist Practice Guidelines for Reference

Sit in meditation for at least half an hour each morning and evening. While sitting, recite the Shurangama Mantra or the Heart Sutra slowly and with focused attention.

Perform one good deed daily; if that is not possible, do one good deed per week. Strive to cultivate blessings every day, and it is best to make offerings to the Buddha daily. Practice other Dharma methods according to circumstances and ability.

Examine your precept observance and mental conduct daily. Investigate your arising thoughts and mental activities, constantly observing your own mind.

Read the Agama Sutras to understand the concepts and implications of the five aggregates and eighteen elements. Observe, practice, and contemplate a small section of the teachings daily.

Recite or memorize the Heart Sutra or the Diamond Sutra; even contemplating a single phrase is beneficial.

While walking, standing, sitting, or lying down, keep the mind focused on one Dharma practice—whether reciting the Shurangama Mantra, the Heart Sutra, or chanting the Buddha’s name.

When time allows, contemplate and observe the functions and nature of the seven consciousnesses, then contemplate the function and nature of the eighth consciousness.

The content and level of practice differ for each individual. Arrange your practice based on your actual circumstances, ensuring not a single day passes in vain.

Each day, reflect inward and examine your mind: observe whether afflictions have lessened; whether the mind is calm and undisturbed; whether worldly pursuits and attachments have diminished; whether enjoyment is less appealing; whether a sense of renunciation is gradually arising; whether the heart has grown more sincere; whether worldly wisdom and Dharma wisdom have increased; whether confidence in your practice has strengthened; whether mental distractions have decreased daily; whether the mind is clear and joyful; and whether handling affairs has become more thorough...