Understanding the nature of the mind through meditation is a profound exercise that involves withdrawing the mind from external objects and sensory experiences. This practice requires maintaining a state of alertness and mindfulness, focusing on the natural state of consciousness, free from thoughts of the past or future.

The process begins with a simple breathing exercise, focusing attention on the act of inhaling and exhaling. This helps to calm the mind and prepare it for the deeper stages of meditation. The next step is to generate a determination to maintain a state without conceptual thoughts. This involves directing the mind inward, away from sensory experiences and mental concepts.

The aim is to reach a state of consciousness that is not afflicted by memories of the past or anticipations of the future. This is likened to stilling a river to see its bed clearly. When the mind is free from chasing sensory objects and thinking about the past and future, an underlying stillness and clarity of the mind can be observed.

This practice can initially lead to a feeling of absence or vacuity. However, with continued practice, one begins to recognize the underlying nature of the mind, characterized by qualities of clarity and knowing. This is compared to seeing the bottom of a crystal glass full of pure water.

The practice of meditation thus helps to directly experience and understand the conventional nature of the mind, moving beyond abstract concepts and definitions.