Holding onto Happiness - 5

5 – Like a wisp of smoke

Holding onto happiness - how can it be done? It may seem elusive, even impossible, like catching a wisp of smoke, gone as soon as it is caught.

But happiness does not need to be caught, held onto, or even captured, as the process of holding onto happiness is really a matter of not letting happiness go…

There is a logical first step here, and that is to find happiness within your mind, and this happiness is closely related to your peaceful mind - it is said that 'a peaceful mind is a happy mind'.

And, like following a wisp of smoke, one does not interfere, one simply observes - so, in practice this means following your train of thought, and maintain the flow…

You can start by finding happiness or contentment, now, in your mind, by recalling your understanding, or experience of happiness and deciding 'I wish this to continue', and not letting go of the train of thought - gently...

For there is nothing inherently elusive about happiness, it is simple that we are unfamiliar with it – so it is probably time to become better acquainted.

We can try an experiment here, a visualisation.

Imagine you are happy, now. Not over elated, but contented and peaceful, and visualise that from this initial thought a gentle curling plume arises, and for as long as you can track or follow this passing, you will remain happy.

Try it...

This process is an aspect of training your mind to maintain happiness, peace, and contentment. The more proficient you become at this practice the easier it will become to maintain, as they say 'practice makes perfect', and should you practice to the extent that you master this art, there is never any need to let go, oh, unless you choose to...

This is a pro-active engagement, not a passive witnessing, it will take gentle and persistent practice to hold your mind where you wish it to remain.

And, there is nothing like meditation to learn these practical skills... Click here.. BREATHING & RELAXATION MEDITATION