Practicing the Jhanas

Two experienced American meditators explain the stages and techniques of concentration meditation, as taught by the Buddhist master Pa Auk Sayadaw


Practicing the Jhanas is a clear and in-depth presentation of the traditional Theravadin concentration meditation known as jhāna practice. Drawing from the teachings of Venerable Pa Auk Sayadaw, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of the jhānas, tracing their significance back to the Buddha’s own journey toward enlightenment. Through personal experiences and detailed instructions, the authors bridge the gap between ancient teachings and modern meditation practices, emphasizing the transformative potential of jhāna as a path to deeper concentration and insight.

Readers will discover a meticulous approach to meditation, learning how to cultivate serenity and concentration through samatha, and progress through the material and immaterial jhānas. The book provides practical guidance on overcoming hindrances, mastering jhāna factors, and exploring advanced practices such as the Four Elements Meditation. By engaging with these teachings, practitioners can purify their minds, gain insight into the nature of reality, and ultimately move toward liberation. This book invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth, offering a rare opportunity to learn from esteemed meditation masters. Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or new to the practice, Practicing the Jhanas is an invaluable resource that promises to enrich your understanding of meditation.“Finely constructed meditation manual.”
—Buddhadharma

“Clear and in-depth. Practicing the Jhanas explains difficult concepts and ideas in an accessible format and enriches the reader’s understanding of meditation.”
—Yoga Magazine (UK)

“Stephen Snyder and Tina Rasmussen know what they write about in this book through their own direct experience as dedicated yogis. This book serves as a bridge for Westerners, as a conduit to the traditional teachings of the Buddha.”
—Venerable Pa Auk Sayadaw

“This is a unique road map to the extraordinary and transforming states of mind known as the jhanas. As a psychologist and as a practicing Buddhist, I recommend this book wholeheartedly.”
—Rick Hansen, PhD, co-author of Buddha’s Brain

“Practicing the Jhanas is a wonderful addition to our understanding of concentration practice. Tina Rasmussen and Stephen Snyder draw on a wealth of personal experience to clearly elucidate and fine-tune this profound meditative path. Highly recommended.”
—Joseph Goldstein, author of A Heart Full of Peace and One Dharma

“A fascinating look at the inner experience of jhana meditation as taught by the Ven. Pa Auk Sayadaw. Tina and Stephen are among a very few Western students of Sayadaw who can speak authoritatively about these profound levels of concentration. Their work is a most valuable addition to the contemporary literature of Theravadin Buddhism.”
—Guy Armstrong, teacher, Spirit Rock Meditation Center

“This book will be of interest to any dedicated meditator, regardless of their style of practice. It provides a valuable contribution to the growing understanding of jhana and its important place in Buddhist meditation.”
—Richard Shankman, author of The Experience of SamadhiStephen Snyder began practicing Zen Buddhism in 1976, and has had a daily meditation practice from that time on. He practiced for 20 years with several Western Zen masters. He participated in more than 50 retreats, receiving several ordinations and the Zen dharma name Peak Wisdom, Mutual Joy. Stephen attended a two-month retreat with Ven. Pa Auk Sayadaw in 2005. He attained the eight jhanas (as well as other practices) in the span of the retreat, becoming the first American male to complete this attainment. 

Tina Rasmussen has been practicing meditation intensively since 1996. In 2005, she attended a two-month jhana retreat with Ven. Pa Auk Sayadaw, who ordained her as a Theravada Buddhist nun. During the retreat, Tina became the first American and the first Western woman to complete the eight jhanas (as well as other practices) in the lineage of Ven. Pa Auk Sayadaw.“Stephen Snyder and Tina Rasmussen know what they write about in this book through their own direct experience as dedicated yogis. This book serves as a bridge for Westerners, as a conduit to the traditional teachings of the Buddha.”—Venerable Pa Auk Sayadaw

“This book offers a fascinating look at the inner experience of jhana meditation as taught by the Ven. Pa Auk Sayadaw. Tina and Stephen are among a very few Western students of Sayadaw who can speak authoritatively about these profound levels of concentration. Their work is a most valuable addition to the contemporary literature of Theravadin Buddhism.”—Guy Armstrong, Senior Dharma Teacher, Spirit Rock Meditation Center

“This is a unique road map to the extraordinary and transforming states of mind known as the jhanas. As a psychologist and as a practicing Buddhist, I recommend this book wholeheartedly.”—Rick Hansen, PhD, co-author of Buddha’s Brain: The New Neuroscience of Happiness, Love, and Wisdom