Dear Friends,
In the Buddha’s instruction to Sona (AN 6.55), he compares effort to the tuning of a stringed instrument. A guitar string that’s too tight doesn’t sound right, and neither does one that’s too loose. We are to apply our effort to find a balance.
As you practice, notice when you are “too tight” or “too loose”. Can you bring just enough effort to connect and be aware?
Here’s a guided meditation from Tara Brach on “Effortless and Wakeful Presence” (17 minutes):
https://www.dharmaseed.org/talks/56912/
With good wishes,
Andrea