Mar 26, 2025 | Working with Concentration and Reactivity

This live Q&A session centres on the relationship between meditation practice and emotional regulation, with a focus on how attentional styles impact reactivity. A question is raised about whether concentration practice is supportive for someone who freezes or shuts down in high-stress moments, prompting a discussion of how different methods interact with the nervous system and deeper mental conditioning. The group explores the value of stabilising attention through object-based concentration, as well as the limitations it may present in states of collapse or disconnection. There is also dialogue around space meditation and how open awareness practices can support responsiveness and ease. Geshe Sonam responds by framing different styles of practice as suited to different psychological tendencies, and notes that the key is the recognition of movement and inner clarity. The discussion draws on ATRI Sessions Five and Six, particularly the importance of establishing concentration with support before exploring non-referential awareness. This session offers a grounded and accessible look at how meditative methods relate to emotional states and patterns of regulation.

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Concentration and Subtle Distraction