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# Re: Re: Buddhist / Bardon

#### Message 03193 of 3835

- To: <BardonPraxis@yahoogroups.com>
- Subject: Re: [BardonPraxis] Re: Buddhist / Bardon
- From: "Rawn Clark" <rawnclark@...>
- Date: Tue, 19 Oct 2004 13:14:13 -0700
- References: <cl2hih+eh70@eGroups.com>

    Dear Derrick,

    >> I must say, though, I completely agree with the post (forgive my bad
    memory, I can't remember the author) that said the practices are, in a
    way, contradictory. The mind in Buddhism is stilled by relaxed
    attention and in Hermetics the mind is forced into a blank state by the
    will. <<

    :) And I must disagree with it, having practiced both Vipassana and Step
    One. Success with the Step One mental exercises is really about finally
    relaxing into each exercise.

    The first one is about detached, attentive observation which is best
    achieved if one is relaxed instead of fighting or forcing the mind. The
    second part of the second exercise (one-pointed meditation upon a single
    thought or train of thoughts) *occurs within the setting of relaxation
    created through success with the first exercise* and is best achieved
    through a patient vigilance that is really very Vipassana-like.

    The first part of the second exercise is also a form of "mindfulness" /
    Vipassana carried on outside of the meditation room and applied to
    everyday circumstances. This is a western version of a formal
    Buddhistic practice. :) Not to mention, a critical faculty for the
    Step Two and Three work of character transformation.

    The third exercise *requires* relaxation -- a complete letting go of all
    thoughts. This cannot be "forced", but it *can* be willed. This third
    exercise represents where Vipassana meditation is intended to *lead* the
    meditator.

    I think the main thing that distinguishes the Step One exercises is that
    they are in each case focused exclusively upon the *mind*, instead of
    the breath. Bardon's exercises address the surface mind directly
    whereas exercises which focus upon the breath, distract the surface
    mind. Both approaches will free the deeper mind, they just do so from
    different directions, so to speak, and are rooted in different
    philosophies.

    My best to you,
    :) Rawn Clark
    19 Oct 2004
    rawnclark@...
    rawn@...
    http://www.ABardonCompanion.com
    http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BardonPraxis
    http://E.webring.com/hub?ring=arionthebardonwe

- References:
  - Re: Buddhist / Bardon
    - From: "Flesmih Natas" <flesmihnatas@...>

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