Expert: Bodhicitta - 3/11/2005

Question
-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
Hello,
Recently my facial muscles have developed the habit of clenching very tightly involuntarily when I enter a meditative state. They are such strong contractions that they are uncomfortable and distract my attention. I can immediately relax them if I try to, but this takes my attention away from my meditation. I would greatly appreciate your advice.
Answer -
Hi Darren

Thanks for your question. I usually avoid giving specific advice meditation advice on this forum. I would encourage people who practicing meditation to learn from a teacher of a recognised tradition and return to them regularly to "check-in" and make sure your technique is correct etc.I would hate to deprive you or any well else of this wonderful relationship.

But having said that feel free to come back to me if you wish.
Perhaps you can tell me more about yourself. Where did you learn the meditation technique you are practising, how long have your been practising and where are you?

I wish you well in your meditation and search for truth
Bodhicitta
--------------------------------------------------------------------

Here's my background: I am a college student in Michigan and am fairly new to meditation and Buddhism. I have not had any formal instruction, nor do I have any specific technique for meditation. I simply focus deeply on my breathing, often initially by imagining energy enter and pass throughout my body with each breath.
I thought this type of thing might be a common problem that you may have seen other people deal with. If not, thanks for your encouragement, and I can search somewhere else.
--Darren

Answer
hi darren
thank you for following up your question with more information.

it is good that you feel interested in meditation and understanding your mind in this way.

unfortunately the technique you are practising isnt helpful for you. you should stop doing it all together and find a meditation teacher in a recognised tradition.

when i was young i tried many things as like you i was interested to experiment and meditate but had no instruction. it seems compelling.

finally i came to a tibetan lama who had a life times training and practice of meditation and told him i wanted to learn meditation. he looked at me and said the paths of meditation lead one into a whole new world. the world has rivers, mountains, jungles, dangers and delight. To wander in this world alone is hazardous and will not be helpful.

The meditation traditions and teachers are guides, and guide books that enable you to find your way.

i wish you well in your search.my sincere advice to you
is to stop what your doing it is at best not helpful. at worst it will harm you.find a meditation teacher and learn something useful and you will be rewarded by finding a new world of delights.

It is good you are starting as a college student. you have life time to find and master meditation and teach it to others.

My warmest wishes for your search
Bodhcitta