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Big sky mind describes the expansiveness of
our minds and boundless nature of our beings. Like a wild animal — impulsive, scared, and
skittish — our minds and thoughts can leave us feeling anxious, confused, or
exhausted. But like the best animal trainers, the animal whisperers, we need
to learn how to take a gentle approach to taming our minds and quieting the
endless chatter of our thoughts. We can't force peace through
threats, anger, or self-inflicted punishment. Instead, we need to nurture
trust, listen within, and practice self-compassion. Meditation offers us this
path. In Buddhism, the metaphor of big sky mind
is used to describe the expansiveness of our minds and the boundless nature
of our beings. And like clouds that float by, our thoughts — pleasant and
unpleasant — come and go. We learn to not judge, resist, or identify with our
thoughts but view them with curiosity and gentle awareness. This is how we
begin to train our minds and cultivate compassion and loving kindness for
ourselves and others. This is how we learn to make friends with ourselves. Try this big sky mind meditation: Let your
breath ground you to the present moment. With the natural rhythm of your
breath, slowly scan your body, noticing areas of tension. Release any
tightness with each exhale, allowing your body to soften and relax. As
thoughts arise in your mind, observe them without judgment or attachment.
Imagine your mind as a clear blue sky, vast and spacious, where thoughts
drift like clouds. Sometimes you might envision clouds that
are white and fluffy, floating by effortlessly. Other times those clouds
might be dark and stormy, triggering a sense of fear. Bring your presence
back into your body, returning to your breath. Let your breath guide you back
home to your center. Rest in the spaciousness of big sky mind. Relax in the
present awareness of your true nature. |
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