Meditation

I have been meditating for nearly five years, off and on, following the medthod laid down by S N Goenka. Of late, I found it rather sterile and and not leading me any where. I then moved over to Raman Maharshi's direct path of Self-enquiry, investing who am I. There is a vibrant and active group here in London of ardent devotees of Ramana Maharshi, led by Alan Jacobs, which I find suits my background and temperament. I have been attending their meditation sittings regularly and I seem to enjoy them more than the vipassana sittings of S N Goenka. I have combined the two approaches, as suggested by you in your three speed transmission approach. When I am on the cushion, after some Anapana Sati, I try to be without any thought. If any thought arises, I notice it as well its passing away.. Also when I am not on the cusion, when I am up and about, I try to observe every thought, sensation, feeling as it arises, notice it and observe its passing away. While meditating on the cushion, the periods without thought are gadualy increasing. Am I am on the right path?

Hey Guruda,

To me, it sounds like your practice is all first gear. To take it to second gear -- notice all the things you notice. And then turn around and ask "Who/what is observing all of these things?". Everything that appears is an object appearing to what? Are you anything that you perceive, or are you the ground in which they appear? Who are you?

It is good that your concentration is increasing, but enlightenment isn't opposed to thoughts that arise, so extended periods without thoughts aren't essential to 2nd and 3rd gear practice. Rest in the stillness and start looking and see what you find!

All the best,
John

Welcome!
Sounds like a very interesting practice!
I'd agree that it's unnecessary to "try to be without any thought" just watch whatever sensations arise, physical or mental. They are all equal, and none of them are you, or yours.