The phrase “Meditation is not a ‘how-to’ process” is pointing to a deeper, almost paradoxical truth:

When we approach meditation as if it’s a skill to “master” through a set of perfect steps, we miss its essence.

Here’s the breakdown of the philosophy:

1. Meditation is not a technique, but an experience
   A “how-to” implies there’s a fixed sequence: do Step 1, then Step 2, and you’ll get the result.
   True meditation is more like being aware than doing something.
   The moment it becomes about “achieving” a certain state, you’re subtly reinforcing striving, which is the opposite of letting go.
2. Presence can’t be engineered
   You can’t “force” yourself into the present moment by sheer willpower and checklists.
   Presence happens when effort drops and awareness simply notices what is — breath, sensations, thoughts — without manipulation.
3. Techniques are just training wheels
   Techniques (breathing patterns, mantras, body scans) can help initiate mindfulness.
   But if we think meditation is only those techniques, we confuse the path for the destination.
   It’s like mistaking swimming lessons for the ocean itself.
4. The paradox: practice without “trying to get somewhere”
   When we meditate to “get calm” or “feel bliss,” we’re subtly resisting the present if it’s noisy or restless.
   True meditation accepts whatever is happening — even restlessness — without judgment.
   So, paradoxically, you “practice” by simply noticing, not by “doing” meditation correctly.