I set out on a path that is both new and familiar.
I accidentally bought both a physical and digital version of Culadasa's The Mind Illuminated. So I'm taking this as a sign that this is a new teacher, and this for the next while is my new bible.
He seems to be the right teacher for me right now, with his synthesis of Theravada and Tibetan, but the determination to keep things secular. And it is very helpful to have these stages set out. Browsing it though, I think I am being honest in assessing myself as a meditator somewhere between skilled and adept. That I can sit comfortably enough for a couple of hours is a strong indicator.
A few techniques that are already useful are the habit of recognizing and developing introspective awareness, and his decision to distinguish between attention and awareness.
But what strikes me most is his assertion that without a strong informal practice, progress in formal practice is likely to be slow and stunted, and that moment of total awakening will remain elusive.
I would say that is true in my case. However strong my meditation. It's impossible to sustain peace and joy if the atmosphere, and if my daily life is chaotic, squalid, impulsive and insecure.
So alongside the deepening of my formal practice, it is my intention to deepen and strengthen my informal practices, cleaning, eating and exercising mindfully.
