External Mindfulness
Mindfulness July 1, 2020 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-020-01377-8 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Historical analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key points | Argues that the external dimension of mindfulness in the Satipaṭṭhāna-sutta and its parallels primarily concerns directing mindfulness to others. |
Abstract
AbstractDescriptions of the formal cultivation of mindfulness in theSatipaṭṭhāna-suttaand its parallels highlight that such practice has “internal” and “external” dimensions. Later traditions reflect a variety of viewpoints on the implications of these dimensions of establishing mindfulness. Perhaps due to the resultant uncertainty, contemporary research on the potential applicability and benefits of mindfulness has so far predominantly focused on the internal aspects. An examination of theSatipaṭṭhāna-suttaand its parallels from the historical viewpoint of their gradual evolution can help to clarify that the chief concern of such external cultivation is directing mindfulness to others.