Concentration practice, whatever the degree or depth or flavor, is a required component of mindful meditation practice when hitting all 8 folds. In the West, in part because of translation from the Pali and our inherent bias towards the words "concentration" and "serenity" there can be a lot of confusion regarding the relationship of the practice of serenity and concentration. In a wise concentrated state great equanimity is revealed. Have a cup o' tea (green is best…) or if you are not too wired a cup o' coffee to orient your tired or sluggy self toward awareness.

keywords: jhana, meditation, wisdome, mindfulness, eight fold path, guided meditation