| | Hiya Sanjiv,
Access concentration is different from dhyana, I know because I made the mistake of confusing access concentration with the first samatha jhana which set me back a bit. Given that you've been practicing for so long you'll likely have "access concentration" with little or no effort but are probably making the same mistakes I did. Getting the first samatha jhana is useful, if not essential, to starting vipassana but you're clearly getting to grips with the vipassana jhanas already so don't worry yourself.
Vipassana is the answer to pretty much all of your questions, the jhanas are different to the samatha jhanas in that the samatha jhanas are states of concentration wheras vipassana are the stages of insight. It sounds like you've had quite a lot of experience with the samatha jhanas which are so lovely and blissful that they can be very addictive. The vipassana jhanas don't have that problem as you've already seen.
If you want some advice, access the first samatha jhana but use it as the basis for vipassana. Do not get lost in concentration practice as you'll find no insight without noting the Three Characteristics of each sensation. Concentration states are wonderful but vipassana is the most powerful and direct technique.
Spend some time on the site, read what other are saying and ask lots of questions 'cause there are people on here who can offer advice and encouragement regardless of your level of attainment. If you're sitting with a sangha, practicing daily and studying the Dharma then you're clearly committed to the work so just keep doing what you're doing, read MCTB and familiarise yourself with Theravadan terminology as you'll find that it helps immensely when asking for advice.
Good luck with everything and welcome to the site, I'm still fairly new to it myself but it is without a doubt one of the most helpful and informative communities online. |