Buddhist discussion

Discussion for the first of four sections:

I started this this morning. I'm only in chapter 2 but I find the author very understandable. I can't wait to get to the meditations! Plan on reading more tonight.

Chapter 2 already? I'd better get a move on!

I like the fact she discusses posture, this has always been a struggle from me in my meditation. Often I find myself aching and tempted to fidget after a while. I'm looking forward to trying out her advice.

Just finished Part 1. I think this book is a keeper! I previously read Meditation for Beginners by Jack Kornfield, a slim little volume that skims over the basics of meditation practice and describes the different types, but never very in depth. Salzberg is much more in depth, focused and easier to read. The challenge format makes the idea of starting a habit less daunting too, starting small and working up. I'm doing my three sessions this week (a week out of sync with the reading) and have one of three down as of this morning!

Still haven't started the actual meditation. She has been a good influence on listening to my breath in everyday situations. It really does make it easier to let go and become aware of my thoughts without attaching to them. I do think I will do the meditations, though not sure when I'll get started. My problem is finding the right environment. The room I want to do it in is full of stuff so first I'll have to face my procrastination and deal with that. Could be a longer process than this book had in mind, but I'll get there. ;0)

I haven't managed to stick to the schedule in the book either, Kim. I've tried to, but life seems to get in the way! I have been sitting from time to time though. I figure some meditation is better than no meditation, so I'm pleased. Like you, I've also been making myself more aware during the day and it feels great. I've found Salzberg's directions very helpful.

For all of May and most of June my life has been crazy out of control with project due dates and all sorts of events and gatherings. Finally now things have slowed down. But even now I do not find myself sticking to any particular structure for going through the pages of the book. I skipped over reading about the walking meditation because I was not in the mood for walking as much as sitting at the time. I will probably go back to that part later.
I am so impressed with how really helpful this book as a tool for learning how to meditate that I bought extra copies to give to cherished family/friends.