According to Sayadaw Ashin Tejaniya, the core of Vipassana (Insight) practice is not the object of meditation, but the quality and attitude of the observing mind.

Core Principles

  • Meditating is acknowledging and observing whatever happens—whether pleasant or unpleasant—in a relaxed way.
  • Meditating is watching and waiting patiently with awareness & understanding.
  • Just pay attention to the present moment. Don’t get lost in thoughts about the past. Don’t get carried away by thoughts about the future.
  • A light and free mind enables you to meditate well.

The Three Defilements in Practice

Be vigilant of the three key hindrances to right attitude during meditation:

Action / Mental StateRoot Defilement
Trying to create somethingGreed
Rejecting what is happeningAversion
Not knowing if something is happening / has stoppedDelusion

IMPORTANT

Attitude Check: Don’t have any expectations, don’t want anything, and don’t be anxious. Simply know what is happening as it is.


Source: Sayadaw Ashin Tejaniya’s Guide