Mindfulness is achieved through a state of effortless flow from "summary" of Trying Not to Try by Edward Slingerland
Achieving mindfulness is not about striving or forcing oneself to concentrate. Rather, it is about entering a state of effortless flow where one's actions come naturally and without conscious effort. This concept is rooted in the teachings of ancient Chinese philosophers and can be understood through the lens of wu-wei, or "non-doing." Wu-wei is not about inaction or laziness, but rather about acting in a way that is natural and spontaneous, without overthinking or trying too hard.
When we are in a state of wu-wei, our minds are clear and focused, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the present moment. This state of mindfulness is achieved when we let go of our desire to control outcomes and simply allow things to unfold as they will. It is not a passive state, but rather an active engagement with the world that is characterized by ease and grace.
One way to cultivate mindfulness is through the practice of meditation, which allows us to quiet the chatter of our minds and connect with our inner selves. By letting go of our attachments to the past and future, we can fully embrace the present moment and experience a sense of peace and contentment. In this way, mindfulness is not something that can be achieved through effort alone, but rather through a surrender to the natural flow of life.
By embracing the concept of wu-wei and allowing ourselves to enter a state of effortless flow, we can cultivate mindfulness and live in harmony with the world around us. This state of being is not something that can be forced or manufactured, but rather something that arises naturally when we let go of our need to control and simply allow ourselves to be. Through the practice of wu-wei, we can achieve a sense of peace and tranquility that transcends our everyday struggles and allows us to live in a state of mindfulness and presence.
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