Vinaire's Blog

Reference: The 4th and 5th Dimensions

We all are familiar with the four dimensions that are acknowledged by science or, more specifically, by physics. These are the three dimensions of space and one dimension of time. Is there a fifth dimension?

Maybe abstraction is the fifth dimension. Science reduces physical observations to relationships in the form of equations.  That would be a step towards abstraction. Mathematics reduces three cups, three plates and three spoons to a pattern of three. That is also abstraction. If we look closely, religion reduces a living person to an abstract soul after his death. So, the dimension from physical to mental to spiritual may be looked upon as the dimension of abstraction.

Let’s look at the fundamental principle of this universe. We may explain it in terms of dimensions as follows.

• In case of space, that fundamental principle is continuity. If there is a discontinuity in space, then that would be something out of place.

• In the dimension of time, it is harmony that is the basic principle. If there is a disharmony then there is something missing.

• Finally, in the dimension of abstraction, it is consistency, which is the basic principle. From physical to mental to spiritual there should be a consistency. If there is inconsistency then some basic truth is missing.

In this mindfulness exercise, we listen to music and perceive the harmony that it conveys. The idea is to recognize the contrast of any discontinuity, disharmony and inconsistency. This exercise should be effortless. Do not strain to perceive the contrast. Let it appear in your consciousness.

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MINDFULNESS C: Recognize the contrast to Continuity, Harmony & Consistency.

Play classical music in the background during mindfulness meditation. It may be the sitar music of Ravi Shankar, or the orchestral music of Mozart.

The student is given “Mindfulness 0” instructions while the music is playing. The idea is to make the mindfulness meditation harmonious with the help of music, so that the contrast of any discontinuity, disharmony or inconsistency stands out.

The student simply recognizes the discontinuity, disharmony and inconsistency in the practice of meditation, and moves on.

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