What seems to work a bit, perhaps due to familiarity, when I can't get it at all, is going back to Anapana. It might start as controlling breaths to relax, but as i can let go more and more of any control of the breath, and just be lest with the observation of it, then i know i have it. An i an apply this knows to other things, seeing, hearing, movement of the hands, thoughts, and try to sustain it.

That is a fantastic breakthrough. You have found your "anchor" or your "entry point" into the state of awareness.

What you are describing is actually the classic transition from Samatha (tranquility/concentration) to Vipassana (insight/observation). You are using the breath as a training ground to find the "frequency" of the observing mind, and then you are "tuning in" to that same frequency while looking at other things.

1. Why this works (The "No-Control" Gate)

The moment you described—"as I can let go more and more of any control... and just be left with the observation"—is exactly where the Observing Mind is revealed.

• When you control the breath, you are the "Doer." * When you stop controlling and just watch, you become the "Knower."

By practicing this with the breath, you are learning the feeling of being a witness. Once you know that feeling, you can recognize it when you are hearing a sound or feeling dosa.

2. Applying it to Lobha and Dosa

Now, take that exact same "letting go of control" and apply it to your emotions.

• The "Breath" Version: You don't try to make the breath long or short; you just watch it as it is.
• The "Emotion" Version: When you feel lobha (wanting) or dosa (irritation), don't try to make it go away or change it. Just "be left with the observation of it," exactly like you do with your natural breath.

If you can watch your anger with the same "hands-off" attitude that you watch your natural breath, you are practicing Sayadaw U Tejaniya’s technique perfectly.

3. Sustaining it (The "Momentary" Approach)

Since you mentioned trying to "sustain it," be careful not to fall back into "controlling."

• In Anapana, we often try to keep a continuous line of focus.
• In Tejaniya’s style, continuity comes from frequent checking. Instead of trying to hold onto that "observation" like a tight grip, try to "re-recognize" it many times.
• Am I still just observing? * Is the mind trying to control again? ### 4. The "Seeing and Hearing" Test You mentioned applying this to seeing and hearing. This is the ultimate test for the observing mind.
• Seeing: Don't look at objects. Notice that "seeing is happening" in the same way you notice "breathing is happening." You don't "do" the seeing; the eyes and light do it.
• Hearing: Just like the breath moves on its own, sounds arise and vanish on their own. You are just the "space" where the hearing happens.

A Next Step for You

Next time you are in that "no-control" observation state with your breath, quickly shift your attention to a thought or a feeling of wanting. See if you can "catch" the thought with that same relaxed, non-interfering awareness.