Do Advanced Meditators Experience Less Thoughts During Meditation?

The journey of meditation, especially for advanced practitioners, often involves a profound transformation in the way one experiences thoughts. Many beginners find their minds to be incredibly busy and cluttered during the practice. However, as one progresses, the quality and quantity of thoughts change. This article explores whether advanced meditators experience fewer thoughts during meditation compared to their earlier stages of practice, and how this transformation occurs.

Understanding the Journey through Meditation

The evolution of thought in meditation is analogous to the natural process of water flowing through a landscape. Imagine observing how water moves from a waterfall, rapidly and tumultuously, to a river with rapids and still sections, and eventually to a calm lake. Similarly, the mind of a beginner meditator might be more turbulent, with thoughts racing and jostling for attention. Gradually, as practice deepens, the pace of thought slows down, and periods of stillness or mindless awareness become more frequent.

Meditation can be practiced in various forms, including short sessions multiple times a day and longer, uninterrupted periods. Techniques such as focusing on the breath, using mantras, or walking meditation are all methods that support the cultivation of mindfulness and concentration. It is highly recommended to receive guidance from an experienced teacher and to practice both in a group and on one's own. Mingyur Rinpoche's YouTube videos are particularly helpful, as he offers a unique insight into the world of meditation and is recognized for his clarity and depth.

The Role of a Qualified Teacher

Choosing a qualified teacher is crucial in the journey of meditation. It is essential to verify the authenticity of the tradition and the teacher's credentials. Mingyur Rinpoche, for instance, belongs to a lineage that dates back to the time of the Buddha, making him a trustworthy guide. It is advisable to seek similar qualifications in any teacher you choose to follow, and to be wary of anyone who may not meet these standards.

Practices and Perceptions

The experience of advanced meditators is not a linear decrease in the number of thoughts. Instead, it involves a shift in perception and engagement with thoughts. My own experience, having meditated on and off for over five years, suggests that advanced meditators do not necessarily think less. Rather, they become less attached to thoughts that arise. The core concept of Buddhism is to flow with karma as it is, while gaining the wisdom to recognize that one is not part of this flow. This is exemplified by the understanding that everything we perceive as ourselves is merely a flow of karmic energy, including past, present, and future thoughts.

As practitioners deepen their meditation, they learn to observe thoughts with a non-judgmental awareness. Thoughts may still arise, but the practitioner is no longer swept away by them. Distancing oneself from thoughts through meditation or inner inquiry leads to a significant reduction in the intensity and frequency of thoughts. In these moments of clarity and stillness, the meditator experiences a profound sense of peace and equanimity.

Conclusion

The journey of meditation is a profound one, marked by significant changes in the way one experiences the mind. While advanced meditators may not think fewer thoughts, they do experience a profound change in their relationship with these thoughts. By learning from qualified teachers, engaging in consistent practice, and cultivating awareness, meditators can achieve a state of mind that is more calm, clear, and at peace.