Buddhist-Meditation-Systematic-and-Practical

all the states described are according to the exoteric
teachings of the Hinayana and the Mahayana. A fourth
category, the instructions on samadhi given in the
Tantras (which are esoteric), will be discussed later (see
Chapter XIII).
D. SOME TERMS CONCERNING ILLNESSES OF
DHYANA
1. RESTLESSNESS (anuddhatya). Mental agitation in
which the mind is grossly disturbed through
over-spiritedness. In this state memories constantly arise
by themselves like a fountain of inner energy springing
up. This disturbance may be interior, but often results
from the stimulation of the five sense bases. Its cure,
briefly, is to be aware of it at first and to treat it by
concentrating on renunciation and impermanence.
2. DISTRACTION (viksepa). A tossing or floundering
of mind is meant here. This is essentially a subjective
disturbance which ordinary people would not discover
easily or find wearisome; on the contrary, they are often
happy to experience it. This is because such a condition
is normal for them and so is hardly noticed, but for the
meditator this disease can completely destroy his deep
concentration (samatha). One should instantly become
aware of it and not let it continue.
3. SLOTH (styana). We should define this as
low-spiritedness or the state of being only half awake,
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