The Power of a Relaxed Mind
The Mahamudra teachings on the true nature of mind can be traced back to Shakyamuni Buddha. We see this in the sutras where the Buddha spoke about mind-itself. And these teachings of the Buddha are the direct basis of, and not different from, the Mahamudra lineage instructions that we receive today. Buddha said:
If the mind alone is virtuous,
then all phenomena in their totality will be virtuous.
If just the one mind, the originator, is nonvirtuous
then all phenomena in their totality will be nonvirtuous.
–from the Saddharmarājā-mahāyāna-sūtra
We can adapt the text of that verse to make a very harmonious point here. We can say, “If the mind alone is joyful, then all phenomena in their totality will be joyful. If just that one mind, the originator, is woeful or not joyful, then no phenomena will be joyful.”
This is an important point to keep in mind, especially when we are facing adverse conditions. In the face of experiencing negative conditions, if we can stay relaxed within our mind – if we can remain calm and at ease, and connect with wellness in our mind by connecting with the mind’s nature – then no matter how many or how intense the negative conditions are, we will be able to overcome the suffering of our mind.
Lama Mipham said: “By familiarizing ourselves even a little bit with the essential point of mind, sufferings connected to the three poisons will be eased. And even the fears of death will be pacified. Therefore what need is there to speak of other types of harm.”
So even if we gain just a little familiarity with the essential point of mind, it will relax and bring a state of ease to the sufferings and fears that arise in connection with the disturbed mental states of our emotions. Therefore, what need is there to mention whether or not we will be able to overcome other types of harm. Of course we will.
How is my mind? A quick check-in
Connecting to the essential nature of our mind brings ease and relief in the face of suffering. Whatever we can do to cultivate that connection will strengthen us inside and outside. To gain this strength, make it a habit to look at your mind’s nature – for example, just before you reach to check your phone!
1. Breathe. Relax a bit.
2. Ask, “How is my mind right now?” Wait for it – don’t jump in with an answer.
3. Continue relaxing, looking at your awareness (not following thoughts).
4. Ask inside, “How is my mind now? Has it changed?” Listen and notice.
That’s it! As you become more and more familiar with the essential nature of your mind, in time it will come to your attention naturally, with a sense of ease.
This article is based on teachings given by Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche on March 19, 2024 for the Tergar International sangha as part of their year-long series of teachings on Mahamudra under the direction of Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche.