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Resting Knowing when to rest is a deep practice. Sometimes,
we try too hard in our practice or we work too much without mindfulness;
thus we become tired very easily. The practice of mindfulness should not
be tiring but rather, it should be energizing. But when we recognize that
we are tired, we should find every means possible to rest. Ask for help
from the Sangha. Practicing with a tired body and mind does not help;
it can cause more problems. To take care of yourself is to take care of
the whole Sangha. Resting may mean to stop what you are doing and take
a five-minute walk outside, or to go on a fast for a day or two, or it
may mean to practice Noble Silence for a period. There are many ways for
us to rest, so please pay attention to the rhythm of our body and mind
for the benefit of all. Total Relaxation is a practice of resting. Mindful
breathing whether in the sitting or in the lying position is the practice
of resting. Let us learn the art of resting and allow our body and our
mind to restore themselves. Not thinking and not doing anything is an
art of resting and healing.
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