Pure and Simple: The Best Book on Mindfulness Meditation
Recently I heard a meditation master recommending this book, as I read it, it blew my mind.
Upasika Kee Nanayon's Pure and Simple stands as a remarkable masterpiece on mindfulness meditation. It meticulously provides readers with a clear and practical guide to the art of meditation, unveiling profound insights about the workings of the mind and the true nature of reality.
Nanayon, a highly esteemed Thai laywoman, gained recognition as a meditation teacher in the mid 20th century. Renowned for her straightforward and direct approach, her teachings are characterized by their clarity and accessibility, devoid of any unnecessary complexity or jargon.
In Pure and Simple, Nanayon shares valuable insights on meditation. The chapters are based on recorded teachings she gave to her students in the 1950s.
She taught that the goal of meditation is not to alter the mind, but rather to cultivate mindfulness, which is its natural state. Nanayon emphasizes the significance of simplicity and honesty in one's practice, urging practitioners to abandon their preconceived notions and perceptions, and instead, see reality as it truly is.
But what is that? Our reality is based on our sense experiences and as we become more and more mindful we learn to distinguish what is real and useful and what is detrimental.
Nanayon teaches that mindfulness possesses the transformative power to shape our lives.
Through her guidance, she demonstrates how mindfulness enables us to effectively reduce the burdens of stress, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, she illustrates how practicing mindfulness fosters the growth of compassion and understanding towards both ourselves and those around us.
Nanayon's teachings embody simplicity and clarity, making them accessible and applicable even to beginners. She skillfully avoids the use of specialized language and unnecessary complexity, a trap that so many, especially Western meditation teachers fall into. By keeping her language and words simple, she emphasizes the fundamental aspects of mindfulness practice; pure and simple, just as is stated in the title of her book.
Her guidance on meditation and mindfulness is practical and grounded. She offers clear, concise instructions on how to meditate and incorporate mindfulness into our daily lives.
Additionally, Nanayon, who was also known as Kor Khao-suan-luang, provides valuable insights on overcoming common challenges that arise during meditation practice. Her expertise and practical advice make it easier for individuals to cultivate a mindful lifestyle.
Nanayon's teachings possess profound insights and offer a deep understanding of the mind and reality. Her wisdom challenges individuals to question their assumptions and perceive the world from a fresh perspective.
Some Quotes from the Book:
On the importance of simplicity:
"The mind is already pure and simple. It is only when we start to think about it that it becomes complicated. So don't try to make the mind pure and simple. Just be aware of it in its natural state."
On the direct path to awakening:
"We can awaken to our true nature simply by being aware of the present moment. We don't need to do anything else."
On the importance of seeing things as they really are:
"Let go of your labels and fabrications, and see the world as it is, without judgment."
On practical advice for meditation:
"Sit quietly, close your eyes, and pay attention to your breath. When your mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breath."
On the power of mindfulness to transform our lives:
"Mindfulness has the power to transform our lives. It can help us to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also help us to develop greater compassion and understanding for ourselves and others."
Pure and Simple is an essential read for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of mindfulness meditation.
I personally benefited greatly from it. I've meditated for a few years now but getting a new understanding of it from a master of meditating like Upasika Kee Nanayo really upped my meditation game.
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