The mental screen, also called the inner eye, is the place where images and thoughts are played out in the mind. It is located just in front of or behind the closed eyes and is the stage on which inner images and thoughts unfold. There is such a place where all this imagery activity takes place in the mind, but it is quite natural and easy to recognize.

Now close your eyes and try to imagine your immediate surroundings. You will probably see a vague, moving image of your surroundings somewhere around your closed eyes. This is the mental screen.

But what happens when there is no activity on the mental canvas? As you develop your mindfulness, you may not see many images or thoughts on the mental canvas. Instead, you might only notice brightness, darkness, or a combination of light and darkness. This is the "blank mental canvas," and it is just as interesting to explore as an active mental canvas.

Mental Screen and Relaxation

Why? Because the blank mental canvas can be extremely restful. It provides a simplified, peaceful environment in which to focus. The absence of imagery activity in your mind can bring a delicious sense of calm and relaxation.

What can the mental screen be used for? If you practice mindfulness, the mental screen can be a fascinating object of concentration. If there is imagery activity, you can be interested in the changing shape of the images: how quickly or slowly they move across the screen, or do they remain still? Recognizing these features develops the essential skill of sensory clarity.

Even if the canvas is blank, you can appreciate the simplicity and stability. Whether the canvas is active or still, you might notice some subtle movement, like images moving across the canvas or a gentle flickering of light and darkness when the canvas is blank. You can follow this movement with your attention, which is also an interesting way to practice mindfulness.

Mental Screen and Mindfulness

The key to mindfulness with the mental canvas lies in the conscious perception of what appears or does not appear on it. It is a journey of self-discovery and inner insight that enables you to make more conscious decisions and actively shape your reality. If you are ready to embark on this journey, you can find more information in our course registration to deepen your mindfulness practice.