釋禪波羅蜜次第法門 2.123

2.123

Third, as for regulating the mind upon initial entry into concentration: regulating the mind has two aspects: first, subduing disordered thoughts so that they do not run wild; second, ensuring that sinking, floating, laxity, and tenseness are properly balanced. What is the mark of sinking? If while sitting the mind is dim and dark, recollecting nothing, and the head tends to droop, this is the mark of sinking. At that time, one should tie mindfulness to the tip of the nose, keeping the mind abiding in the object of focus without letting thoughts scatter; this can remedy sinking. What is the mark of floating? If while sitting the mental spirit is fluttering and restless, the body is also unsettled, and thoughts dwell on extraneous objects, this is the mark of floating. At that time, it is fitting to settle the mind downward and tie it to a lower focus, checking the scattered thoughts so that the mind comes to a halt; through this the mind easily becomes peaceful and tranquil. To state the essential point: being neither sunken nor floating is the mark of a regulated mind.