Mindfulness of the observing mind, as taught by Sayadaw U Tejaniya, is a shift in focus from what you are experiencing to how you are experiencing it.

Instead of focusing on a "primary object" (like the breath), you turn your attention to the background—the mind that is doing the "knowing."

1. The Core Question: "What is the Mind Doing?"

The most practical way to observe the mind is through light, periodic self-inquiry. You don't need to "see" the mind like an object; you just need to know its current state.

• Ask yourself: "Is the mind aware right now?"
• Check the quality: "Is the mind relaxed or tense?"
• Identify the activity: "Is the mind thinking? Is it judging? Is it resisting?"

2. Monitoring the "Right Attitude"

For Tejaniya, the "observing mind" must be free of Greed (wanting something to happen), Aversion (wanting something to stop), and Delusion (not knowing what's happening).

• If you find yourself trying hard to concentrate, you are observing with greed.
• If you are annoyed by a loud sound, you are observing with aversion.
• The Practice: Recognize the attitude. Once you realize, "Oh, I’m trying too hard," the mind naturally relaxes, and the "observing mind" becomes clearer.

3. Understanding "Knowing" as an Object

In this style, "knowing" itself is the object.

• When you hear a sound, there is the sound (the object) and the hearing (the mind).
• Instead of following the sound, you simply acknowledge: "Hearing is happening."
• You are aware that the mind is receiving information. This creates a "step back" effect where you are no longer lost in the story of the experience, but are watching the process of experiencing.

4. Practice in Daily Life

Because this isn't about deep concentration, it is meant to be done while you are moving, talking, or working.

• Relaxed Effort: Don't "stare" at your mind. It’s more like having a mirror in the background. You check it every few minutes to see if it’s still clear.
• Don't "Go Into" the Object: If you feel a pain in your leg, don't dive into the sensation. Stay back and notice: "There is pain, and the mind feels frustrated about it." The frustration is what you are truly observing.

Summary Checklist for the Observing Mind:

• Am I aware? (Sati)
• Is the mind relaxed? (Right Effort)
• What is the mind's attitude toward this experience? (Right View/Wisdom)