Cultivating Curiosity and Kindness

100 Days of Care Practice Blog

Search for inspiraton in the 100 Days of Care blog using the category menu below, based on the ten “far-reaching” attitudes:

Guided Meditation: Energy

Mar 28, 2023

The perfection of energy is a mind that delights in goodness. Goodness or Virtue refers to states of mind that lead towards openness and ease such as wisdom, compassion, and all the other paramis (perfections) — determination, lovingkindness, truthfulness, composure, generosity, renunciation, patience and equanimity.

On the cushion, in meditation, our effort is easeful. We delight in the basic fact of our consciousness. We bring just enough effort to touch our experience — to cognize contact, intention and attention. We steady the mind with a level of intensity that we could keep up all day long — meaning we keep ourselves relaxed and composed while remaining alert and curious.

Off the cushion, in our daily life, we notice goodness (in ourselves and others) and we allow ourselves to resonate with it.

Traditionally listed fifth of ten ‘perfections’, Effort or Energy remains in the fifth position for the for the 100 Days of Care program as we follow the example of Thanissaro Bhikkhu in re-organizing our contemplation of the perfections.

This 20-minute guided practice with Heather Fenton begins with mindfulness of breath in the body and then shifts into a contemplation on developing an easeful attitude that delights in goodness and is ultimately mixed with the wisdom of selflessness (emptiness, not self, anattā).

Listen on YouTube.

Listen on Insight Timer.

Weekly Classes

100 Days of Care Autumn 2025 Live Cohort, Tuesdays 8pm ET (60 mins), Sep 9-Dec 16, ONLINE ONLY— Sustain an ongoing practice of daily self-compassion. These weekly gatherings offer ongoing support, encouragement and an opportunity to connect with others. We will meditate and then discuss our practice in group or small groups.

Or join us for:

Insight Meditation, Wednesdays 7pm ET (75 mins), in person and online Start and/or maintain a regular meditation practice. Each week, guided meditations are combined with instructions for bringing mindfulness into daily living. 

 

Open to drop-in, these classes are offered freely, by donation.

Please pre-book HERE or email hello@gentlydownthestream.org with questions or help with booking.