Introduction to ānāpānasati (mindfulness- of-breathing)

Hi friends,

Today I like to share with you some basic instructions on how to
develop concentration with ānāpānasati (mindfulness- of-breathing).
There are two kinds of meditation: Samatha and Vipassanā.
Samatha is the development of concentration, and Vipassanā is the
development of wisdom. Samatha is a very important foundation for
Vipassanā.

This is why beginners are greatly encouraged to practise first
Samatha, so as to develop deep and powerful concentration. Then can
they practise Vipassanā, to see the true nature of things.
There are forty Samatha meditation subjects, but ānāpānasati (mindfulness of breathing)is one of the more popular ones for beginners.

In the Sa§yutta Nikāya, the Buddha praises ānāpānasati:

Bhikkhus, this concentration through mindfulness of breathing,
when developed and practised much, is both peaceful and sublime.
It is an unadulterated blissful abiding, and
it banishes and stills evil unwholesome thoughts as soon as they arise.

Will be introducing the steps for you to follow in the upcoming postings.

Cheers