This quote encapsulates the essence of meditation and the concept of mindfulness. When there are thoughts, it is distraction: when there are no thoughts, it is meditation. This means that when our mind is filled with thoughts, we are distracted and not fully present in the moment. However, when we are able to clear our mind of all thoughts, we enter a state of meditation, where we are fully present and aware.

In the context of meditation, thoughts are seen as distractions that pull us away from our focus on the present moment. When we meditate, the goal is not to stop thinking, but to observe our thoughts without judgement or attachment, allowing them to pass by like clouds in the sky. When we are able to achieve this state, where we are not actively engaging with or being carried away by our thoughts, we are meditating.

In today’s fast-paced world, we are constantly bombarded with information and distractions, which makes it even more important to cultivate the ability to meditate. By practicing meditation, we can train our minds to be more focused and less easily distracted, which can improve our productivity and overall mental well-being.

Furthermore, this idea can be applied in personal development. By learning to control our thoughts, we can better manage our emotions and reactions. For example, if we are faced with a stressful situation, instead of allowing our thoughts and emotions to spiral out of control, we can use meditation techniques to calm our mind and approach the situation with a clear and focused mind. This can help us to make better decisions and to handle challenges more effectively.

Ultimately, this quote highlights the power and importance of meditation in helping us to control our thoughts and to be more present and focused in our daily lives.