Chapter 1: The Essence of "Pure and Simple"

Recently, I came across a meditation master who highly recommended a particular book, and upon reading it, I was truly amazed.

Upasika Kee Nanayon’s "Pure and Simple" serves as an exceptional resource on mindfulness meditation. It offers readers a straightforward and actionable approach to the practice of meditation.

Nanayon, a respected Thai layteacher, emerged as a notable figure in the meditation community during the mid-20th century. Her teachings are celebrated for their clarity and simplicity, making them accessible to a wide audience.

In "Pure and Simple," Nanayon shares her perspectives on meditation, drawing from recorded sessions she conducted with her students in the 1950s.

For those interested in diving into this book, you can find it on Scribd.com. Signing up provides you with 60 days of free access, while I receive a bonus, making it beneficial for both parties!

Her teachings emphasize that the purpose of meditation is not to change the mind but to nurture mindfulness, which is our inherent state.

Nanayon underscores the importance of practicing with simplicity and integrity, urging practitioners to discard preconceived ideas and view reality with open eyes.

But what does this reality entail? Our perception of reality stems from our sensory experiences; through heightened mindfulness, we learn to discern what is genuine and beneficial from what is harmful.

She believed in the transformative potential of mindfulness, illustrating how its practice cultivates compassion and understanding towards ourselves and others.

Nanayon consciously avoided complex terminology, a common pitfall among many Western meditation instructors, thereby focusing on the core tenets of mindfulness practice—pure and simple, just as the book's title suggests.

Some Notable Quotes from the Book:

On simplicity:

“The mind is already pure and simple. It is only when we start to think about it that it becomes complicated. So don’t try to make the mind pure and simple. Just be aware of it in its natural state.”

On awakening:

“We can awaken to our true nature simply by being aware of the present moment. We don’t need to do anything else.”

On perception:

“Let go of your labels and fabrications, and see the world as it is, without judgment.”

On meditation practice:

“Sit quietly, close your eyes, and pay attention to your breath. When your mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breath.”

On the transformative power of mindfulness:

“Mindfulness has the power to transform our lives. It can help us to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also help us to develop greater compassion and understanding for ourselves and others.”

"Pure and Simple" is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their comprehension of mindfulness meditation.

I have personally gained immensely from this work. Although I have practiced meditation for several years, gaining insights from a master like Upasika Kee Nanayon has significantly enhanced my practice.

The video titled "The Top 5 MUST READ Books For Meditators" offers a curated list of essential reads to enrich your meditation journey.

Additionally, "Mindfulness Training: The Top 8 Mindfulness Meditation Books for Beginners" provides valuable recommendations for those just starting on their mindfulness path.

Hi, I'm Paddy. Thank you for taking the time to read my article. I work as a counselor, coach, and meditation instructor. If you're interested in my latest articles on Medium, you can subscribe here. For inquiries about counseling sessions or writing, please reach out here. You can also find my various social media links here.