Dharana 77 of 112 · verse 93

Attention at the Point of Pain

The verse directs attention to a sharp sensation deliberately produced.

Recorded, not taught

Shoonyaka does not offer this one as a guided practice. It is here because the collection is of all one hundred and twelve, and leaving it out would misrepresent the text.

Before you try this

Not offered as a practice. Do not pierce, cut or otherwise injure yourself. This entry exists so the collection is complete and honest about what the text contains.

The practice

The verse instructs piercing some part of the body with a sharp point and joining awareness completely to that place.

What it works on

The principle underneath it is one the text uses repeatedly: an intense, undeniable sensation gathers scattered attention instantly and completely. Shoonyaka records the dharana because it is part of the hundred and twelve, and declines to instruct it because the method it prescribes causes injury.

Notes

  • The same gathering happens with any strong sensation that harms nothing — cold water on the hands, a firm press on a knuckle, the shock of stepping outside on a cold morning. Attention arrives whole in exactly the way the verse describes.
  • If you find yourself drawn to the literal form of this practice, please talk to someone. In the UK, Samaritans are on 116 123, free, any hour. Elsewhere, findahelpline.com lists local services.

Practise gently

Shoonyaka offers educational and contemplative material, not medical, psychological or religious authority. Nothing here diagnoses or treats any condition. Stop any practice that leaves you dizzy, frightened or unwell, and treat a strong reaction as a reason to rest rather than to push on.