Bhavana is a Pali word that means “development” or “cultivation.” It is a key concept in Buddhist meditation, and refers to the process of training the mind to focus and concentrate.
There are four main definitions of bhavana:
- Sustaining energy in order to bring about the desired results.
- Using everything at hand as instruments performing their respective duties.
- Controlling directly all efforts or energy for the desired aim.
- The mind being involved very much in practice.
Bhavana can be used to improve one’s life by helping to develop concentration, focus, and mindfulness. To practice bhavana, one can start by focusing on a single object, such as the breath or a mantra. As one’s concentration improves, one can gradually increase the length of time that one focuses on the object. It is also important to practice bhavana regularly, in order to see the benefits.