Concentration Meditation: A Simple Guide to Self-Realization
Have you ever wondered how to improve your concentration and dive deeper into meditation? Bentinho Massaro offers a unique approach to concentration meditation. Let’s explore this method in a simple and enjoyable way.
Step 1: Focus on an Object
Begin by choosing an object to focus on. It can be anything, but let’s say a white cloud in a clear blue sky. Imagine this cloud and concentrate on it. As Bentinho suggests, take a deep breath, relax, and remind yourself: “I don’t need anything from anything. Everything I seek is already here.” This mindset helps release tension and prepares you for deeper meditation.
Step 2: Meta Concentration
Once you’re focused on the cloud, shift your attention from the cloud to the act of concentrating itself. This is what Bentinho refers to as “meta concentration.” It’s like stepping back and watching yourself concentrate on the cloud. It might sound tricky, but with practice, it becomes more natural.
Step 3: The Feeling of Concentration
Now, try to feel what concentration is like. It’s about developing a sense of being immersed in a state of focus. Imagine tuning into a radio station; that moment when the static clears and you hear the music clearly is like recognizing the feeling of concentration.
Understanding the Paradox
In this process, you might face a paradox: focusing intensely while also being relaxed and detached. It’s a bit like concentrating on a spice in a dish; you’re aware of its presence amidst other flavors. With practice, this paradox resolves itself, leading to a stronger sense of concentration.
Why This Matters
This method of concentration meditation isn’t just about focusing better; it’s a pathway to self-realization. By understanding and experiencing the state of concentration, you unlock deeper aspects of meditation and awareness.
A Spiritual Perspective
The Bible echoes a similar sentiment in Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” It reminds us to focus our minds on positive and uplifting thoughts, aligning with the essence of concentration meditation.
Quote
“To concentrate is not just to focus on one thing; it is to dwell in the essence of focus itself.” – Bentinho Massaro
Another look on how it works:
- Start with regular concentration. Choose an object, like a white cloud, and focus all your attention on it. Feel its form, its texture, its presence.
- Move beyond the object. Once you’re focused, don’t just observe the object, become the object. Feel what it would be like to be the cloud, to drift weightlessly in the sky.
- Shift your awareness. Now, zoom out. Instead of being the object, observe yourself being concentrated. Notice the feeling, the energy, the state of focused awareness.
- Concentrate on being concentrated. This is meta-concentration. It’s about becoming familiar with the feeling of focus itself, developing a sensitivity to its unique “frequency.”
Benefits of Meta-Concentration:
- Rapidly strengthens willpower: By focusing on concentration itself, you’re directly training your mind to become more focused in all areas of life.
- Unlocks deeper meditation states: Meta-concentration acts as a gateway to deeper and more profound meditative states.
- Boosts self-awareness: Observing your own mind in a state of focus enhances your overall self-awareness and understanding.
- Improves mental clarity: By quieting the mind chatter and honing your focus, you experience greater mental clarity and sharpness.
Mastering meta-concentration takes practice, but the rewards are immense. By cultivating this skill, you unlock a powerful tool for achieving greater focus, accelerating your meditation practice, and ultimately reaching your full potential.