Mindfulness of body allows us to practice being aware of what it feels like to be in this body in the present moment with an attitude of kindness and interest.
This week we continue the exploration of the early teachings on mindfulness from the Satipatthana Sutta. Following mindfulness of breathing, the next two instructions for mindfulness of the body relate to awareness of the body in activity and include awareness of the four postures.
The four postures are walking, standing, sitting and lying down. We are encouraged when walking to be aware that we are walking, and so on with all four postures. When the awareness has been grounded in the body by practicing mindfulness of the four postures, we can proceed to the next contemplation of bringing awareness to the body in activity—including eating, drinking, defecating, urinating, walking, sitting, standing, falling asleep, waking up, talking and keeping silent.
Mindfulness of the body allows us to live fully. It brings healing, wisdom and freedom. –Jack Kornfield
This week try bringing awareness to the body in movement and activities. Notice any urge to resist this part of the practice, and see if you can bring awareness without reactivity and aversion to any activities that you may view as unpleasant. Keep in mind your purpose and progress toward awakening. Listen to the organic rhythms and needs of your own body.
If you would like to deepen your mindfulness practice, try adding a mindful journaling practice this week. Write about what you became aware of when practicing mindfulness of the body in activity. Write about how you related with this experience of awareness –did you relate with it with kindness? With judgment or self-criticism? Whatever you write about, try to approach the writing with kindness and curiosity.
Jen Johnson is a mindfulness teacher, coach, and therapist teaching meditation for healing, creativity, and resilience. Learn more about Jen Johnson’s mindfulness coaching.