pratikshana

Pratikshana is a term of Sanskrit origin, commonly translated as "moment by moment" or "instant by instant." It signifies a continuous, ongoing flow of time and experience, emphasizing the present rather than dwelling on the past or anticipating the future. In various philosophical and spiritual traditions, particularly within Hinduism and Buddhism, the concept of pratikshana is central to understanding the nature of reality and the path to enlightenment.

The notion encourages mindfulness and a deep engagement with the present. By focusing on each individual moment, individuals can cultivate a greater awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and surroundings. This heightened awareness is believed to reduce suffering, as much of it arises from attachment to past events or anxiety about future possibilities. The practice of living pratikshana involves accepting each moment as it arrives, without judgment, and responding to it with clarity and purpose. It is a call to fully inhabit the now, recognizing that this ever-shifting present is the only reality we truly possess. Through this continuous awareness, one can perceive the impermanence of all things and develop a sense of detachment, leading to inner peace and liberation.