The Noble Eightfold Path: Step Seven: Right Mindfulness

Send us Fan MailThis week we explore Right Mindfulness, the seventh step of the Noble Eightfold Path. While the earlier steps shape how we see and act in the world, this step turns us inward again, toward our direct experience.Right Mindfulness is not about self-improvement or optimization. It is a way of relating to the mind as it is. Through meditation, we begin to see that thoughts are not a problem to solve, but something to notice, release, and return from, again and again.In this episode, I explore Right Mindfulness through three qualities that arise in practice: precision, openness, and spaciousness.HighlightsWhy mindfulness is not a tool for fixing yourselfThe simple meditation formula: notice, let go, come back, begin againWhy thoughts are not the problemPrecision as the foundation of practiceOpenness to allowing experience to be as it isSpaciousness for the true nature of mindThe shift from identifying with thoughts to recognizing awareness itselfMusic After PartyThis week I share “I Won’t Cry” by Doug Sahm, a true Texas legend. You can also listen here.Watch this episode on videoIf you’d like to watch the podcast, the video version is coming soon.Thoughts?You can send your questions or reflections via Instagram DM or through our form — I’d love to include them in future episodes.Get your copy of The Buddhist Enneagram From March 10 – April 10, you can receive 30% off the new physical edition of The Buddhist Enneagram when you order directly from Shambhala Publications. Use code ENNEAGRAM30 at checkout. If this book has been on your reading list, or if you know someone who might benefit from this perspective on the Enneagram, this is a great time to pick up a copy. Buy yours here.If you’d like a free chapter, sign up for my weekly meditation newsletter here.Fearless Creativity: A Meditation and Writing Retreat Join me at Drala Mountain Center in the Colorado Rockies for Fearless Creativity, a meditation and writing retreat offering dedicated time for creative work alongside guided meditation and conversation. Writers of all genres and levels are welcome, with no prior meditation experience required. Learn more and register here.If you enjoyed this episode:Please rate, review, and share it with a friend who’s curious about mindfulness, spiritual commitment, or the Buddhist path.For more on Buddhist teachings and how our humanity isn’t necessarily in our way, sign up for my free weekly newsletter or join the Open Heart Project sangha for more connection with community and with me.If this podcast has been meaningful to you, it would be great if you would subscribe, give it a five star rating and share it with a friend. To join or learn more about The Open Heart Project please visit openheartproject.com.Thoughts? Email us at [email protected] by Citizens of SoundMusic by: Derek O'Brien©Open Heart Project