Five experiences
Five experiences (Tib. nyam nga; nyams lnga) – these experiences accompany the development of shamatha -
- At the beginning thoughts will arrive one on top of another, uninterrupted, like a steep mountain waterfall. This is the experience of agitation.
- Gradually, as you perfect meditation, thoughts become like the water in a deep, narrow gorge. This is the experience of attainment.
- Then it becomes like a great river slowly winding its way down to the sea. This is the experience of familiarity.
- The mind then becomes like a still and placid ocean, ruffled by only the occasional ripple or wave. This is the experience of stability.
- The fifth experience is that of perfect stability which is described as an oil lamp that is not blown by the wind, resting bright and clear, unmoved by anything.
- See also the nine ways of resting the mind, the five faults and the eight antidotes.