マインドフルネス
Mindfulness
2024-03-12 18:00:00
<translator’s note: In this entry, the words written with all CAPITAL LETTERS represent Japanese words.>
In the realm of spiritual discourse, the term "mindfulness" is generally understood as follows:
- It refers to a state where one is able to perceive and accept reality as it is, without being caught up in distractions such as past experiences or preconceptions, and instead focusing awareness on the body's five senses, including the sensations of the “present moment” and “one's current physical condition.” This concept has gained attention in business as well, due to its benefits such as increased productivity and resilience to stress. (From an article on Kaonavi)
- It is a psychological process of directing attention to experiences occurring in the present moment. It is said to be developed through meditation and other practices. In terms of definition, it is sometimes described as "intentionally directing awareness to the present moment experience without judgment, in a non-judgmental state, simply observing." (From Wikipedia)
- We often find ourselves seemingly living in the present moment, but in reality, our minds are preoccupied with thoughts of the past or future, leading to a state of "absent-mindedness" occupying much of our time. Particularly, negative thoughts such as past failures or future anxieties tend to dominate our thoughts for extended periods. In other words, we end up amplifying our own anxieties and stresses. Breaking free from this state of absent-mindedness and directing the mind to the "now" is what we call "mindfulness." (From an article on NHK)
- According to the definition by J. Kabat-Zinn, who laid the foundation for the current concept of mindfulness through the development and practice in the 1960s, "mindfulness is intentionally directing attention to the present moment without making value judgments." In other words, it means facing what is happening in the present moment without holding onto values, preconceptions, or stereotypes such as "it should be like this" or "it must be this way," each individual may have, and instead focusing on what is happening right now. (From an article by the Faculty of Economics at the University of Tokyo)
From these articles, it seems that mindfulness is defined as the "way of working the mind" regarding "the present moment."
If that's the case, it can be concluded that reaching enlightenment (or liberation) through mindfulness is not possible.
Because the state of mind aimed at enlightenment (= liberation) is one of "not-using one's mind."
This word in Buddhist terminology is referred to as "MU (no/nothing)-SHIN (mind/heart)."
In other words, it points out that regardless of the form, when people (sentient beings) engage their minds, they may misperceive the ultimate truth, and it is only by refraining from such engagement that they can discern the true nature of reality.
Additionally, "MU-SHIN" is written as "no mind," but it doesn't mean to eliminate the mind.
"MUSHIN" means to discern things in accordance with the naturally honest heart one inherently possesses, without engaging unnecessary thoughts or intentions.
There is not a trace of the desire to do things skillfully or proficiently.
However, it's not a childish or innocent heart.
If we were to define it, it would be better described as an "the mind that should be."
And this mind can only be cultivated through the accumulation of merit, bestowed as a gift of merit.
When this "mind that should be" is actually in operation, it leads to reflection and insight regarding past actions triggered by the present circumstances. Furthermore, this process becomes a catalyst for awakening, and (if there are right connections), it ultimately enables individuals to become Buddhas.
In this sense, if mindfulness is confined to "the present moment," it would be said to have no relation to Buddhism.
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