Lesson 4 Practice: Orienting Body and Mind in Meditation

Bhante G (Bhante Gunaratana) introduces the course and addresses several key questions around the meaning of meditation (bhāvanā) and how to develop the proper motivation to engage in meditative practice. You’ll learn how meditation can transform your inner world and bring a welcome sense of peace and simplicity to your life.

Lesson 9 Practice: Preparation for Meditation on Channels and Energies

Bhante G identifies mindfulness (sati) as just one of many forms of meditation. He explains its key role—alongside clear comprehension (saṃprajanya)—in maintaining awareness of what’s happening at any given moment, without distortion. You’ll learn about the four foundations of mindfulness and how mindfulness can help us develop both a healthier sense of conventional self and a better understanding of the Buddhist notion of ultimate “selflessness.”

Bhante G provides an extensive overview of how to adopt and maintain a conducive bodily posture and prepare the mind for a meditation session. You’ll learn strategies for avoiding obstacles such as physical discomfort and mental tension, anxiety, distraction, overexcitement, and dullness. You’ll also discover how meditations on impermanence and the four sublime mental states (brahmavihara) can further complement your practice. 

Lesson 8 Practice: Settling Body and Mind for Meditation