This talk / Q&A was originally posted on Ven. Yuttadhammo Bhikkhu’s YouTube Channel. To watch it on YouTube kindly click here.
00:19 Meditation Q&A
18:41 In terms of some kind of goal or momentum: how often should I be noting outside of sitting/walking? Should it really be moment-to-moment throughout the day? I struggle hard with this.
20:21 When I watch certain actors on TV, my head pings like a pin ball machine. I’ve noticed it’s only certain actors this happens with. Any idea? Should I say "pinging?"
20:57 If someone wants to learn this meditation technique, how important is their religious background? (if they believe in God).
24:03 If we note whatever arises, but also can't possibly note everything, how can we ever gain requisite concentration for mindfulness? Letting some stuff pass without noting feels arbitrary. Is that okay?
25:42 I can't calm my mind with a 15 minute meditation after a stressful day at work. How long do you recommend for meditation after work?
27:38 How do we know if our positive results from this technique are a result of temporary concentration we've built or are from actually seeing clearly?
30:52 I cannot sit because of back problems. Can I continue my noting practice while lying and walking and still get the same results?
32:13 Does "do not kill" apply to plant life? Would it be wrong to kill an insect by removing it from a house plant it was relying on?
33:27 If someone acts rudely, and you start thinking about them negatively, is it ever advisable to introduce countering thoughts, e.g. pitying them or giving benefit of doubt? Or Should we just be mindful?
35:34 I keep falling back on my bad habits. Do you have any advice?
37:49 My practice feels arbitrary -- I sometimes ignore minor things and just keep noting whatever I'm on, sometimes I note absolutely everything that arises. Somehow both ways seem incorrect. Please advise.
38:58 Is there any space in which you should reflect on certain thoughts arising especially if they are repetitive, perhaps trying to show you something you are ignoring or just keep on noting?
41:12 I feel like my antidepressive medication is in the way of going deeper in my meditation. What do you think?
45:03 I'm afraid of public speaking. How do I get rid of the fear?
46:59 Is it correct that, If meditating devotedly and correctly, you will be protected by the law of karma, you will not be hungry or sick, no fear of being outdated, and your physical appearance would improve?
49:48 I am 6'5" tall, and when people look at me, I get nervous sometimes. Any advice?
51:51 I studied music and I have musical instruments. Could I use them to inspire and encourage people, for the benefit of others? Throwing everything away or selling it seems a waste. What would you recommend?
54:59 When I say "thinking thinking" when images pop in, it stops the thinking in its tracks. Is this correct? Should this happen, or is this myself trying to stop thinking even though I'm not actually trying?
56:17 How can one remove addiction from one's life?
57:15 It seems staggering how much we are harming other beings inadvertently. Is there a sutta about this? It seems more prominent than ever with COVID, microplastics, carbon footprint, etc. Any advice?
1:03:06 How can I remove my suicidal thoughts and concentrate on the present?
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