Body scan

[Music]

In vipasana, the body scan has to proceed in a certain order, head to toe. Is that necessary, or can we just focus wherever the sensation occurs? Could we just sit down and wait for sensations to occur, after which we observe them?

[lobster]

Think of the scan as a warm up.
I tend to do a scan, which helps to become aware of which areas need further awareness/observation.

[catmoon]

Actually I was taught to do it toe-to-head!

But it doesn't matter so long as the scan covers all the bits. You'll want to be thorough and maybe even try to include the brain and internal organs.

[Music]

Actually I was taught to do it toe-to-head!

But it doesn't matter so long as the scan covers all the bits. You'll want to be thorough and maybe even try to include the brain and internal organs.

My aim is to experience what vipasana students call dissolution of body, namely experiencing the body not as something solid but as a series of vibrations. What method would work best?

[dakini_boi]

It doesn't have to be head to toe, it can be any order as long as every part of the body is included. It is important to include every part, even if at first there appears to be no sensation. If you only focus on the parts of the body where you feel sensation, you will not develop awareness of the other parts. For example, especially in the beginning, you will find parts of the body where you cannot find any sensation at all - but as you put attention to it, sensation will arise.

[Music]

It doesn't have to be head to toe, it can be any order as long as every part of the body is included. It is important to include every part, even if at first there appears to be no sensation. If you only focus on the parts of the body where you feel sensation, you will not develop awareness of the other parts. For example, especially in the beginning, you will find parts of the body where you cannot find any sensation at all - but as you put attention to it, sensation will arise.

How long do I continue this?

[dakini_boi]

As long as you feel like it, or as long as you are able.

I recommend dhamma.org to find a retreat near you where you can learn the technique properly.

[catmoon]

Actually I was taught to do it toe-to-head!

But it doesn't matter so long as the scan covers all the bits. You'll want to be thorough and maybe even try to include the brain and internal organs.

My aim is to experience what vipasana students call dissolution of body, namely experiencing the body not as something solid but as a series of vibrations. What method would work best?

I'm afraid this question is a bit beyond me. Time to track down a proper teacher.