The Eightfold Path was presented by the Buddha as pathway to ease the suffering which is inherent in the human condition. As you read the names of the eight components below, you might choose to replace the word “right” with the word “wise” or “skillful.” This gives them a different feel.
The eight parts are considered to be in three groupings: ethical conduct, which includes right speech, right action, and right livelihood; mental discipline, which includes right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration; and wisdom, which includes right thought and right understanding.
If you take into consideration that energy follows thought, you may conclude that most of the suffering we experience can be traced back to our personal ground-zero: the mind. Practicing right mindfulness and right concentration offers us a glimpse of our mindspace and the opportunity to develop and discipline the mind. We’ve been working with these in each and every meditation thus far.
It all takes effort—right effort.
Happy meditating.
Tip of the Nose Meditation – Day 2