by A mind without thoughts
The mind-emptiness practice is the final stage of mental training for Step One. When we carefully examine the progression of the previous exercises, we recognise that it is the natural conclusion of a path that began with the conscious observation of thoughts, followed by synchronising ideas with actions and ultimately mastering thought itself through one-pointedness of mind.
These practices aim to acquire familiarity with a state other than the cerebral one. The brain’s function consists of processing the data perceived through the sensory apparatus to return an interpretation corresponding to our human condition. In this sense, it is a reflective organ which limits itself to creating an image of reality suitable for our being in the world. The brain never stops processing thoughts. Believing to mitigate mental flow by silencing brain function is like emptying the ocean with a spoon; therefore, we need a paradigm shift.
Being inside the brain when a thought occurs limits our perspective and prevents us from tracing the phenomenon’s origin. To use an analogy, we are like the eye that can see everything except itself. In previous practices, we have learned to raise our level of awareness, which allows us to shape the brain’s output to achieve our desired results and gain control over our thoughts, freeing them from the normal learning process. This means we are approaching a precognitive point that anticipates the formation of ideas, words, and more. This potential manifests as inner silence, where the ego no longer identifies with the flow of thoughts and instead focuses on the space between them. Rather than being an absence, this emptiness serves as the foundation of higher consciousness—the self—that precedes the division between subject and object.
Bardon provides limited explanations for his practice, clearly addressing an audience of practitioners familiar with his methods. The approach is as follows: Sit comfortably in an armchair or lie on a bed with closed eyes. When a thought arises, push it away forcefully until you reach a blank state of mind. Initially, you may only maintain this state for a few moments, but with practice, the duration of thoughtlessness will increase. The exercise is considered successful if you can remain in a state of emptiness for ten minutes without getting distracted or falling asleep.
This practice may be the most challenging of the Step One mental exercises. Bardon’s approach is straightforward but demands willpower and perseverance. It is important to avoid focusing on eliminating thoughts, as that itself becomes another thought. This method requires complete presence and the ability to stay undistracted by deceptive thoughts that can subtly divert your attention from your intended purpose. The same applies to emotions, which can also be a source of distractions, particularly positive ones.
Another method to practice emptiness is to start with focused concentration on a single point. This approach allows us to begin from an advanced level of attention, bypassing the clutter of racing thoughts. Alternatively, you can concentrate on an external object; for instance, a letter from the alphabet is often used in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. A simple graphic or geometric symbol can also be effective. Some people focus on their breath to shift attention away from mental distractions, but this technique generally helps calm the mind rather than empty it of thoughts. Nevertheless, it can serve as a helpful starting point.
A student of average ability typically takes four to six weeks to see some results. Since this is the First Step, absolute perfection is not necessary; instead, we must consciously develop the ability to direct our minds using willpower. Achieving mental emptiness is crucial for the subsequent stages, so we should continually strive to improve our practice over time.
Are there any signs indicating the success of the practice? It depends on the stage achieved. The first stage is characterised by the complete absence of thoughts, which is then followed by the ability to awaken a state of emptiness instantly. Specific experiences can signify a deeper integration of the self into this mental habit. For example, you may notice a blockage of thoughts, like water suddenly freezing in a tube, or you might experience a condition of clarity that is difficult to describe.
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