Mind Training in Seven Points

Chekawa's Mind Training in Seven Points is one of the best-known sets of instructions for mind training and taking and sending. The Seven Points comprise a complete practice, with instructions and guidance that cover all the essential points of Mahayana Buddhism.

What do the seven points cover?

1. Groundwork: what you need in order to practice effectively:
   • basic meditation (click here for a resource on this elsewhere on this site)
   • death and impermanence (click here for a resource on this elsewhere on this site)
   • karma (click here for a resource on this elsewhere on this site)
   • compassion (click here for a resource on this elsewhere on this site)
2. Practices: the two core meditation practices of mind training:
   • awakening to what is ultimately true and
   • awakening to what is apparently true.
3. Applications: how to work with these practices in your life
4. Summaries: two sets of instructions that summarize the key elements of mind training practice.
5. Measures of proficiency: signs that your practice is being effective
6. Commitments: what violates the core intention of mind training
7. Guidelines: ways to support and nurture your experience of mind training

Next: Where do I start?