Smiling And Sitting?

[Jani]

 I understand sitting, but I was wondering why he decides to smile throughout the sitting sessions? 

[Xpansion]

It is actually very useful and very productive to have a slight smile on your face when meditating.  You may have noticed that images and statues of the Buddha he always has a smile.  This is because he was onto something.
 Smiling has a direct effect on the brain and causes certain feel good neuro chemicals to be released. This directly effects your mind states/moods.  Smiling is also a way to access the jhanas (successive states of deep focus or meditative absorbtion)  Accessing the jhanas requires placing ones attention on a pleasant sensation once you have reached access concentration. A smile may produce such sensation in some people but the sensation can be anywhere in the body. When you reach the first jhana you will not be able to help but smile because it is intensely blissful.  Have a read of Leigh Brasingtons book to learn more about the jhanas - Right-Concentration-Practical-Guide-Jhanas

[Alex4]

amazing, 4 hours ...

[The]

10 hours ago, Makis said:

 

Edited October 28, 2016 by Kayako

[cetus]

1 hour ago, Jani said:

 I understand sitting, but I was wondering why he decides to smile throughout the sitting sessions? 

 

[Xpansion]

1 hour ago, Makis said:

The smile on images and statues of the Buddha is symbolic. It is to show that Buddha is perfectly at peace/okayness. In this mood a smile may come up by itself and not as a willful act.

That is your understanding. I have a different understanding.  

[Xpansion]

Theres magic in your smile