A Solution Ekagrata = One Pointedness= Focus= Attention
Ekagrata – or one pointedness offers us a solution. One pointedness protects us and reinvigorates our focus or our attention which is a most precious human asset. We give our reverence and gratitude to Patanjali, a Hindu and Sanskrit scholar for unloading this knowledge and bestowing it upon the world at large. Patanjali codified some of the wisdoms of timeless Hindu teachings thousands of years ago in the “Yoga Sutras,” a book written in verses or “sutras”. The inspiring story of Bonita Norris aptly illustrates one pointedness. At age 22, Bonita became the youngest person to climb Mount Everest. She shared that her motivation for climbing Mount Everest was born out of:
Naturally, obstacles surface in one’s path during the undertaking of an inner and outer journey, as was the case with Bonita. She wrote in her 2010 blog:
The treacherous path leading to the summit remains. A still and focused mind makes these obstacles irrelevant to the realization of an overarching goal or vision. I imagine Bonita tapping into the state of one pointedness and remaining undeterred in spite of the physical and mental exhaustion.
- One pointedness is not concentration or a mere technique.
- One pointedness is a practice and a process built upon the pillars of commitment and intentionality. This can gradually lead to a state of mind we can tap into.
- One pointedness is a way of being that ultimately expands our awareness.
- One pointedness harnesses the power of our focus and attention so that distractions and obstacles become inconsequential within the framework of our awareness.
A Three Minute One Pointedness Practice
You can try this practice while taking a shower or doing the dishes, simply by taking a few minutes for yourself.
The process is simple:
First, take a few deep breaths. Deep breaths allow the conscious mind to slow down and relax.
Next, close your eyes. Imagine a light glowing in your heart center.
See that light or sense that light shining ever so brightly in you. Think or say to yourself: one pointedness.
As you do this every day for a few minutes, you will notice your ability to sustain your attention starts expanding.
May Bonita’s soaring poetry inspire the spirit of Ekagrata –one pointedness in you
I look forward to hearing about your experience.
If you wish to further improve your focus, please click here for a session.