In the second foundation of Right Mindfulness, we contemplate how we are feeling. Then we use that feeling “as a springboard for understanding the nature of experience,” according to Bhikkhu Bodhi. And part of that nature of experience is that all feelings pass. They arise, and they stay for a bit, and then they dissolve. When we realize this, we don’t hold onto them so tightly, or feel so wound up by them.
We generally experience three kinds of feelings: pleasant, neutral, and painful. Obviously, we prefer the first two to the third. But it doesn’t really matter which ones we experience, because the goal remains the same. We contemplate Right Mindfulness by being in our feelings. (Drake would be so proud!) We don’t run from them or suppress them or grab onto them with all our might. We simply notice them. In the same way we watch our breath come and go, we watch our emotions. Before too long, we find ourselves back to that Second Noble Truth: impermanence. Pleasant feelings don’t last. But then again, neither do painful ones. Eventually, all emotion dissolves. Bhikkhu Bodhi says, “When we mindfully observe any feeling, it will peak and break.”
One interesting thing to note is that for Buddhist purposes, there’s no difference between physical sensations and emotions. Whether you feel the sun on your back or a sadness in your heart, that’s the focus. Any feeling counts.
Another thing to watch is how our feelings can connect to the three unwholesome states. Pleasure can lead to greed, because we long to capture and hold onto it. Pain can lead to aversion, because we want to turn away from it. And neutral feeling can lead us to delusion, because we don’t register it at all. Of course, our feelings don’t always stay in their lanes. But as we seek to be mindful of them, it helps to see common sticking points.
Most of all, Right Mindfulness teaches us to accept our feelings without judgment, and with gentleness. Thich Nhat Hanh says, “If we face our feelings with care, affection, and nonviolence, we can transform them into a kind of energy that is healthy and nourishing.” And remember- true mindfulness always returns us to good energy.
This week, try taking some time to sit quietly and simply observe your feelings like you would your breath. Get close to them and honor them by listening. And then release them in freedom.
This post belongs to my series on practicing the Eightfold Path. Read all my posts on Right Mindfulness here.
