D Z:
For understanding Annata better:
- Try to observe the physical sensations that make up the sense of the observer.
- Realize that if you observe a sensation, it can't be the observer.
- You will notice the sensations observer has 'shifted'.
- Observe the sensations that make up this new observer and repeat the process
-----Try to do this as fast as you can.
For vibrations:
- Observe them with a mix of concentration and awareness, but don't get distracted by them.
- Simply doing this should amplify them.
- Continue doing this till the whole field of experience starts to get shaky.
This shaky field of experience eventually led to fruition for me.
Thanks D Z. There are a few methods I employ in EQ, one of them is similar to your advice for observing the sense of the observer. The way I approach it is trying to abide in pure, objective awareness, and the way I get there is by noting everything that isn't awareness (thoughts, feelings, sensations, etc.) and as I note them they fade or disjoin from awareness until all that's left is what feels like simple observation. I also try to objectify observation, but with no real success.
Another technique I use it to try to observe vibrations. I like your advice about using a mix of concentration and awareness, but I think I also like to add a degree of ease or surrender as well
My last main technique is to just simply sit and let whatever happen happen, which almost comes full circle to the first technique.
I can observe vibrations in most of my sits, but I'm not sure if I've ever had a shaky field of experience, or at least not for a sustained period. Is it obvious, like, "whoa, my field of experience totally shaking"?
Jackson Wilshire:
Stream entry happened for me when I wasn't expecting it. I was in high equanimity, big time, before lying down to go to sleep. I gave up the idea that I was going to attain stream entry any time soon, and just paid attention to what was happening in experience as I relaxed. I hear similar accounts from others.
I guess you kind of have to give up -- and really give up, not just say "OK, I give up now. Hit me, emptiness!" -- in order for this thing to happen.
It sounds like you have all of the tools. Just continue to apply them to EVERYTHING. Be content with reaching Equanimity, and just let that be your practice. There really isn't anywhere left to go.
I hope this helps. If not, forget you ever read it.
-Jackson
Jackson, I totally agree that this is probably obstacle numero uno. I think the problem about this obstacle is that it can't be completely removed by just intellectualizing it as an obstacle. I first became aware of how much my mind was pervaded with nibbana lust at my last retreat. I started trying to surrender that desire, but it was half-hearted, just like you say above. I would think, "Whatever, I don't care anymore," and then sit expectantly, waiting to be taken to the beyond. As time goes on, however, I feel my desire shifting to equanimity, though I still have stream entry as a resolute goal.
After reading many accounts of stream entry, I'm starting to think that it never happens in a regular sit. Now that I think about it, I don't know if I can recall a SINGLE account of stream entry while in seated meditation. Everybody seems to have it while sitting or lying in bed, or waiting for lunch, or taking a walk, or sitting outside. Interesting, no?
Anyways, thanks y'all.
-Teague