Renowned bhikkhu and meditation teacher, Ajahn Brahm, recently captivated a global audience with his profound teachings on a common struggle faced by many: restlessness during meditation. With his characteristic warmth and humour, he delved into the roots of this issue and offered practical solutions for cultivating a more peaceful state of mind.
During his talk, Ajahn Brahm emphasised the power of contentment as an essential tool for calming the mind and settling into the present moment. “The root of restlessness,” he said, “comes from wanting something more than what we already have. It stems from a belief that somewhere else or something else is better than the present moment.” This notion resonated deeply with many participants, as it encapsulates a struggle familiar to countless meditators.
Ajahn Brahm’s advice for overcoming this tendency is both deceptively simple and incredibly powerful: keep repeating to yourself, “This is good enough.” By accepting and appreciating the present as it is, without yearning for something more, meditation becomes a far more accessible practice. He urged his listeners to embrace the present moment fully, allowing the mind to settle and rest in its natural state.
Through this acceptance, restlessness begins to fade, revealing a deeper sense of peace and stillness. This perspective invites individuals to cultivate gratitude for their current experiences, fostering a mindset that supports a more enriching and fulfilling meditation practice.
Restlessness: The ‘mange’ of meditation
Ajahn Brahm employed a vivid metaphor to elucidate the nature of restlessness during meditation. He likened it to a dog suffering from mange, a skin condition characterised by incessant itching and discomfort. Just as a dog with mange can’t escape its discomfort by simply changing locations—whether moving to the forest, village, or beach—meditators often find that fleeing from one distraction to another does little to alleviate their inner turmoil.
“The itch of restlessness remains because it is on the inside, not the outside,” he stated, emphasising that true peace cannot be found through external changes alone. Instead, Ajahn Brahm proposed that the solution lies in applying the “anti-mange medicine” of accepting the present moment as “good enough.” This shift in mindset can lead to a significant reduction in restlessness, allowing the mind to settle and find a sense of peace.
This metaphor not only highlights the futility of external distractions but also encourages individuals to turn inward and confront their feelings of discomfort. By addressing restlessness at its root, meditators can cultivate a deeper connection to their practice and themselves.
The beauty of present moment awareness
AjahnBrahm went on to expound upon the joy and freedom that arise from fully embracing the present moment. By relinquishing attachments to the past and future, meditators can escape the burdens of time and immerse themselves in the “timeless present.” He described this state as a “jewel” hidden within each of us, waiting to be uncovered when we let go of our habitual cravings and aversions.
“When you eliminate the past and future, time itself loses its meaning,” he explained. “What remains is now—a peaceful, timeless state of being.” This profound insight offers a pathway to deeper meditation and a sense of liberation from the pressures of daily life.
Ajahn Brahm encouraged his listeners to explore the richness of the present moment through mindfulness practices, reminding them that every moment is an opportunity to experience peace, joy, and contentment. He emphasised that the practice of meditation is not about achieving a particular state but rather about fully experiencing whatever arises in the moment.
Ajahn Brahm’s upcoming visit to Sri Lanka
For those eager to engage with Ajahn Brahm’s teachings in person, an exciting opportunity is on the horizon. He will be visiting Sri Lanka in May 2025, providing a unique chance for the public to learn from his wisdom directly. On May 18, 2025, Ajahn Brahm will deliver a public sermon at the BMICH, where he is expected to share insights on mindfulness, meditation, and living a content and peaceful life.
In a world often filled with distractions and stress, Ajahn Brahm’s teachings serve as a gentle reminder of the importance of embracing the present moment and cultivating a sense of contentment. His practical advice and relatable metaphors resonate deeply with both seasoned meditators and those new to the practice, offering valuable tools for navigating the challenges of modern life.
Ajahn Brahm’s teachings on overcoming restlessness in meditation are a timely reminder of the importance of contentment and mindfulness. By embracing the present moment and acknowledging that it is “good enough,” individuals can cultivate a more peaceful and fulfilling meditation practice. As he prepares to visit Sri Lanka in May 2025, his insights will undoubtedly inspire many to explore the depths of their own minds and discover the timeless beauty that resides within.