The more you grow—really grow—the simpler things become. Eventually, it becomes so simple that it seems absurd people are suffering. They look for ways to feel better, and they often want techniques. I always say, “I don’t teach techniques,” but that’s not true. What I’m really teaching is the highest technique: relaxation.
Let me explain what I mean by that. In yoga, when you do asanas, it’s all about relaxation. You find a balance of stress and tension and then relax into it. You go beyond your usual comfort zone, and that’s when changes take place. Yoga isn’t just exercise; it’s about relaxation, and it’s lasted thousands of years because of this principle.
But when I talk about the highest technique being relaxation, I don’t mean just physical relaxation. I’m talking about life. What is your life? Your life is simply you, dropped down on this planet, experiencing whatever is happening in front of you. Everywhere you go, things are happening. Your job is to experience those things. That’s your life.
How difficult is it to just be where you are, to experience the moment? It’s not hard, right? Yet, most of us don’t really experience life because we add layers of personal disturbance—our thoughts, worries, and anxieties—to the simple act of living.
The highest spiritual technique is to relax into life as it is. Right now, wherever you are, can you just be there? Most people find that they can’t because their minds are filled with noise—self-consciousness, embarrassment, worry. This mental noise prevents you from fully experiencing life.
Relaxing Behind Disturbance
So what can you do about that? The technique is to practice being there—being fully present in whatever is happening. Wherever you are, ask yourself: Can I just be here? Can I relax into this moment without adding unnecessary layers of disturbance? When you do this, you’ll notice the mind starts creating noise—thinking about what you should or shouldn’t say, worrying about how you look, and so on.
The key is to relax behind that noise. This doesn’t mean trying to stop the thoughts or fix them. It means acknowledging that the disturbance is there but choosing to relax into it. Over time, you will find that this practice allows you to experience life more fully and freely.
Most of the time, the external situation isn’t the problem. It’s our internal reaction to it—our fear, worry, and anxiety—that creates the disturbance. The moment you realize that the source of the problem is internal, not external, you’re 50-60% of the way to spiritual growth.
Wherever you are—whether you’re driving, in a supermarket, or with friends—practice bringing your consciousness back to the present moment. When you notice your mind creating unnecessary disturbance, relax. Relax your body, relax your thoughts. You will find that life becomes easier, and over time, your mind will become quieter.
As you practice this relaxation, you will eventually reach a state of joy. This joy doesn’t come from external circumstances but from the release of inner tension. The energy you once used to create neurosis gets redirected, and you begin to feel peace and joy for no reason at all.
In conclusion, the highest technique is to relax—constantly. It may sound simple, but it is a powerful practice that can transform your life. When you stop creating disturbance for yourself and start relaxing into life, you will discover a deeper sense of peace and fulfillment.
- Michael Singer, “Relaxing Behind Your Inner Disturbance”
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