
tw082
Legend
Platinum Level
I have been interested in the non-duality teachings for some time. Ever since I had an "experience" where I was aware of the union of all things as a young man. I have studied all the different teaching from gnostic to Buddhism to Tao. Until I found Vedantic philosophy a branch of Hindu teachings. If you ever heard of Ram Dass, this is what he talks about in his lectures and books. So I practice breathing techniques and meditation practices for all aspects of my life. I think it is especially useful in poker, well thats just a place where it is more evident to those unfamiliar. Its just as helpful in everything I do.
Like in life, we are not always dealt perfect cards -- certainly not in every hand. Learning skills that teach you the best ways to respond to adverse situations is an extremely valuable life tool. To do that with calm, patient, mindful resolve -- a "poker face" -- is a skill set that translates well in our daily existence. Calm resolve is not a show of weakness but of control and subtle strength. People often find themselves regretful of their behavior in moments where they lose control of their feelings and emotions. It is rare to hear someone lamenting over a moment where they kept their calm.
While there is of course an element of "luck" during any game, poker is way more skill and talent than luck. Anyone who plays often, knows its not like pulling a slot lever where pure randomness decides the winner,
To succeed in poker or anything else in life it helps to sit mindfully and observe those around him and make wise decisions about when and how to behave. When to take risks. When to be patient. Those basic positive skills are a great asset. Of course there are many ways to learn discipline. But over the years I have never discovered a practice that is as much fun or teaches so many diverse proficiencies as well as meditation and poker.
Mindful meditation is about raising your concious I.e. being more aware and relaxed. Your attention becomes more acute, stress dissipates, you act instead of react. I think it's a game changer for any poker player especially if emotional responses ever hinder your game.
The end goal of long time practitioners is true knowledge of self, the infinite love that permeates all. Which is also nice. But, for better self control and higher awareness the first stages of meditation are sufficient.
https://danielnegreanu.com/mindfulness-poker/

Like in life, we are not always dealt perfect cards -- certainly not in every hand. Learning skills that teach you the best ways to respond to adverse situations is an extremely valuable life tool. To do that with calm, patient, mindful resolve -- a "poker face" -- is a skill set that translates well in our daily existence. Calm resolve is not a show of weakness but of control and subtle strength. People often find themselves regretful of their behavior in moments where they lose control of their feelings and emotions. It is rare to hear someone lamenting over a moment where they kept their calm.
While there is of course an element of "luck" during any game, poker is way more skill and talent than luck. Anyone who plays often, knows its not like pulling a slot lever where pure randomness decides the winner,
To succeed in poker or anything else in life it helps to sit mindfully and observe those around him and make wise decisions about when and how to behave. When to take risks. When to be patient. Those basic positive skills are a great asset. Of course there are many ways to learn discipline. But over the years I have never discovered a practice that is as much fun or teaches so many diverse proficiencies as well as meditation and poker.
Mindful meditation is about raising your concious I.e. being more aware and relaxed. Your attention becomes more acute, stress dissipates, you act instead of react. I think it's a game changer for any poker player especially if emotional responses ever hinder your game.
The end goal of long time practitioners is true knowledge of self, the infinite love that permeates all. Which is also nice. But, for better self control and higher awareness the first stages of meditation are sufficient.
https://danielnegreanu.com/mindfulness-poker/

Last edited: