Jhāna refers to a type of absorptive concentration that develops through one-pointed attention on a fixed meditation subject. Four levels of concentrated attainment—simply named the First Jhāna, Second Jhāna, Third Jhāna, Fourth Jhāna—describe successive stages that are characterized by increasingly subtle qualities of happiness, bliss, peace, and clarity. Jhāna concentration produces a unified and undistracted mind and is a useful basis for vipassanā practice.

Shaila Catherine periodically teaches jhana retreats. Practitioners who wish to train in concentration and jhana will find more information on our Concentration and Jhana FAQ page.