I'm revisiting the Fives and can feel the benefit of ending on a 'beingfull' session (as discussed in a video) and have changed my personal practice to finish that way. Am wondering if there is any particular reason for starting the Fives with shamatha rather than 'object no 1', which I have been doing as a way to come into my personal experience of here-&-now?
I'm guessing the answer would be that it doesn't matter too much, do what feels right for me and that just doing a practice is the thing - but I'm curious as to whether there is a rationale for starting with a shamata section.
Perhaps it's more interesting to observe how my thinking mind always likes to use my meditation time to analyse the practice and design new, better ones!!
Thanks X
Thank u. Starting the Fives with shamatha is often recommended to "stabilize" the mind and cultivate focus before delving into deeper practices. It sets a solid foundation, making it easier to engage with "object no 1" or any other practice with greater clarity and presence. Trust your intuition and observe what works best for you, as personal experience and comfort with the practice are key.