I can’t shake this feeling of tiredness I’ve had lately. It’s like a physical heaviness combined with lack of energy.
Now is a good time to discuss dynamic concentration. I'll turn this into a full post in the future.
To define the precise meaning and purpose of dynamic in the context of concentration practices, we can contrast it with neutral and peaceful concentration practices.
A neutral concentration practice would be something like jangama dhyana. You sit, close your eyes, and rest your attention on the space between your eyebrows. Simple.
A peaceful concentration practice entails deep relaxation with wakeful attention. This could be something like placing your attention on slow, rhythmic breathing with or without body-scanning.
A dynamic concentration practice involves short repetitive bursts of full body intensity interspersed with periods of rest. For example, the thunderbolt mantra PHET (pronounced like the english word "pet" with a strong initial exhalation for the PHE) can be shouted 108 times like any other mala repetition. Then you rest in relaxed open awareness. And then shout again, then rest again. Back and forth.
Being well-versed in a variety of techniques, when applied appropriately, will help you to overcome common obstacles on the path. Neutral, peaceful, and dynamic practices are each valuable in their own unique ways.
Right now you feel foggy, lethargic, and drained. I am guessing that this is not due to a lack of proper self care. If you are not getting an appropriate amount of sleep, exercise, and food then definitely make those lifestyle adjustments as well. However, sometimes we get more than enough of those things and yet still feel this indolent, restless grogginess.
Dynamic practices cut directly through it. It is like the zen master who thumps their disciple with a dharma stick. One session of dynamic practice may be enough to shake you out of it for a bit. Do it daily until you find some balance.
Here is an effective guided dynamic practice session on YouTube.
Let me know how it goes and if you have any questions about dynamic practices.
May your freedom from suffering be marked by the glorious roars of the badass buddha within!
LY