Introduction

If you are thoughtful, reflective, in tune with nature -- you are ready for more formal meditation -- and ready for this book.

Meditation is a tool available to everyone; no matter how callous or spiritual, well-adjusted or complex one''s life is. Knowing why and how to meditate are arguably the most important signals of approaching an enlightened life.

Content and Structure

These sixteen chapters follow the sequence of the Anapanasati Sutta, according to the Four Foundations of Meditation. The inspiration and teachings of the Satipatthana Sutta and the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta: Setting the Wheel of Dhamma in Motion, the Buddha''s first discourse, are incorporated.

Beyond that autobiographical sketches inform the reader about how possible, natural, and easy meditation is. These simple facts are not disputed by most people, and the best thing that can be said about each teaching in this book is: I know that... I agree with that simple truth!

Purpose and Usage

The sequence of the book leads from one simple truth to the next following a logical path to eliminating suffering (Nirodha) in a practical way. The book can be read from front to back, or opened at any point by experienced meditators for inspirational ideas.