People often say, "I'm struggling," or "I want to change myself." The solution to this is "mental strength training." Nothing will change if you continue the same behaviors and thought patterns. In fact, those patterns may become even more entrenched. Mental strength training means cultivating the ability to let your thoughts be without getting caught up in them. By developing this ability, you can free yourself from unnecessary suffering and worry that stem from self-judgment and judgment of others.
There is a difference between physical strength training and mental strength training. This is why sonomama ( as-it-is-ness) practice is tricky. Physical strength training builds muscle by applying pressure, but mental strength training is the opposite. You strengthen your mental muscles by doing nothing and simply letting things be. In this context, "letting things be" means not meddling with or reacting to your thoughts but simply allowing them to exist as they are. It's not about accepting, recognizing, rejecting, or denying them, but instead letting them flow in the background like background music. Remember, thoughts are not you.
If you find your mind unsettled or uncomfortable, that’s an opportunity. A crisis is a chance. These are the moments when you face pressure, making them the perfect opportunity to train your ability to "let things be." At these times, please sit down, stop physical activity, and focus solely on mental activity by letting your mind be as it is. This is what mental strength training is about.
When you practice this, you will come to see that nothing in this world is permanent—not even your self. This clarity is both healing and liberating, revealing the fresh and radiant quality of the present moment. And so, not only in times of struggle, but at any time, sit and let your mind be. Cultivate this "letting things be" strength in your daily life.
Text and Image by K E I K O
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