A Tale of Two Experiments

Earlier in the month we featured some stories of small successes from our broader YA community. Sustaining a meditation practice can be challenging, and it's always helpful to find ways to re-engage with our practice and use the eight points in new ways.

A favorite strategy among YAs (and meditators of all ages) is coming up with experiments using the eight points. This week we want to share tales of experiments from two YAs. We particularly enjoyed reading these because of how practical they are: strategically looking at an issue in their life, applying one of the eight points, and then – just like a scientist – examining the experiment for results.

We'd love to hear from you! Share in the comments below any experiments that you're currently trying, or any that have been particularly successful for you in the past.

From Nikhil in White Plains, New York

I've been trying to increase one-pointed attention for sometime now. I was addicted to my smartphone. Always reading articles, books and even spiritual books on my phone whenever I had a few spare minutes. One day I decided to delete the email app and account on my phone. I made a decision to check my email three times a day, use texting only where there was no other option and read articles only on my computer or paper. Email on phone is only for emergencies. I also stopped carrying my phone with me around my house so I wont get tempted to read or text. I only keep it when I travel. 

I have tremendously improved on my ability to give attention to people and work. Now I can more easily focus on my family when I am with them. I have more control on my mind and can bring it back when I talk to people. I did not realize that reading articles on the phone constantly, though seemed harmless actually was draining my attention. Even if the articles were spiritual. There was a compulsion / addiction about the phone that was hampering my attention. Believe it or not I have made great strides in regaining control of life :)

From Fleur in Leiden, The Netherlands

I have been experimenting with using the mantram against worrying. I am currently in an insecure work situation that has given my mind much food for worry. And, as I found, much food for mantram!

The mantram has been most useful when I wake up in the middle of the night and my mind starts to worry creating all sort of unlikely scenarios. The trick is to get the mantram started before this worry gains momentum. In a way I am trying to get the mantram going as soon I see the beast lurking below the surface. It is almost like a game (catch the worry and wack it with the mantram). It has clearly improved the quality of my rest and I am thankful for that.