Question asked by Eric
Dear Pastors,
Why does Rinpoche say that continuation is very important for prostration practice? Like not breaking a day etc.
And does short prostrations count? Can I do 3 short prostrations at the start of each day just so I don't break a day? Because I am not always sure if I can set up my kitchen for the long prostrations every day.
Dear Eric,
Thank you for your question. What rinpoche was talking about with regards to having continuity is engaging in a Prostration retreat and that means we have set out to engage in an intensive prostration retreat for a set period of time. However, there are days we could be busy, the minimum of 3 prostrations along with the necessary recitations is permitted without breaking the retreat.
On the other hand, Rinpoche could also be referring to prostration practice as a daily sadhana or practice and that would mean engaging in the practice every single day without fail in order to reap the benefits of this purification practice.
With regards to 3 short prostrations, it is good that we do so daily especially before our sadhana – daily prayers and mantra recitations. But if we are serious about engaging in the prostration practice, it is recommended that we engage in the full length prostration and do more than 3 prostrations a day. I hope this helps you very much. Good luck with your practice. Thank you.