Karma and Chaos – with the subtitle: New and collected essays on Vipassana Meditation by Paul R. Fleischman, M. D. was published to inspire people on the path of Vipassana meditation. The PDF book itself is a product of Vipassana-derived energy and enthusiasm of the editors who were determined to make these essays more easily available to readers in the Western hemisphere. Four of the essays presented have circulated among smaller groups of Vipassana practitioners for many years in print editions in India and Sri Lanka. Notifying the essay’s catalytic effect, Vipassana Research Publications committed to publishing them and a few more to a wider readership in the West.
Download the free ebook here (152 pages/2.7 MB):
– You can buy the print version here: Link
How to do Vipassana meditation
Vipassana is a meditation technique that focuses on observing the sensations and experiences within the body to gain insight into the nature of reality. It is often taught in dedicated retreats, but you can also practice it on your own. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do Vipassana:
1. Find a quiet and comfortable place: Choose a calm and quiet location where you can sit undisturbed for a period of time. Use a cushion or a chair to sit in a comfortable, upright posture.
2. Prepare your mind: Take a few moments to relax and settle your mind. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to bring your attention to the present moment.
3. Focus on your breath: Begin by observing your breath as it naturally flows in and out of your body. Pay attention to the sensations of the breath at the nostrils or the rising and falling of the abdomen.
4. Observe bodily sensations: Once you have established a level of concentration with the breath, start shifting your attention to bodily sensations. Begin with a specific area, such as your head, and systematically move your attention down to the toes, observing any sensations you experience along the way. It could be tingling, warmth, pulsation, or any other bodily sensation.
5. Remain equanimous: As you observe the sensations, try to maintain an attitude of equanimity. Avoid reacting to pleasant or unpleasant sensations with craving or aversion. Instead, develop an objective and non-judgmental awareness of the sensations as they arise and pass away.
6. Stay present: Your mind may wander or get caught up in thoughts, memories, or fantasies. Whenever you notice this, gently bring your attention back to the present moment and resume observing the sensations in the body.
7. Practice regularly: Consistency is key to developing your Vipassana practice. Set aside a specific time each day for meditation and gradually increase the duration of your sessions as you progress. Start with shorter sessions, such as 15-20 minutes, and gradually work your way up to longer periods.
8. Consider attending a retreat: While it’s possible to practice Vipassana on your own, attending a Vipassana retreat led by experienced teachers can provide valuable guidance and support. These retreats typically offer a structured environment that allows for deeper immersion and more focused practice.
Remember that Vipassana meditation requires patience and persistence. It’s a gradual process of training the mind to develop deep insight and wisdom. With regular practice and dedication, you can experience the transformative effects of Vipassana in your life.