In the teachings of Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, “labeling” is a core technique in mindfulness meditation (Shamatha) used to handle the constant flow of thoughts. Instead of suppressing thoughts or getting lost in them, he taught students to acknowledge their occurrence by mentally and gently saying the word “thinking” whenever a thought arises.
The Technique of Labeling
Acknowledge, Don’t Analyze: When you realize you are thinking—whether the thought is a memory, a fantasy, or a plan—you simply note it as “thinking” and immediately return your attention to the breath.
Neutral Attitude: The label is not meant to be a judgment or a “battle” against the mind. It is a way of seeing the transitory nature of thoughts without being “bossed around” by them.
The Goal of Simplicity: By labeling, you create a “gap” in your habitual patterns, allowing for a moment of openness and simplicity.
