He who having been heedless
is heedless no more,
illuminates this world
like the moon freed from clouds.

– DhammaPada Verse 172

Heedlessness is the lack of awareness of one’s mind, body and speech while performing an action. It’s akin to living unconsciously, being carried away by desires, aversions, and delusions without any real understanding of their consequences on oneself and others. This state is often followed by impulsive actions, leading to discontentment and suffering.

Conversely, heedfulness, is the intentional, conscious effort to be aware of one’s actions, thoughts and feelings as they occur. This is a quality that is gradually cultivated as one is gradually training and is of great benefit when cultivated.

“Mendicants, those who don’t enjoy mindfulness of the body
don’t enjoy freedom from death.
Those who enjoy mindfulness of the body
enjoy freedom from death.”

– AN 1.616

The Buddha shares that it is not possible to awaken to the truth of enlightenment for one who is lacking in mindfulness of the body.

Related Teachings:

• Gradual training and gradual progress: The Habit Curve
• Progressive elimination of refined corruptions (AN 3.101)