serene illumination, or just sitting, is not a technique, or a means to some resulting higher state of consciousness, or any particular state of being. Just sitting, one simply meets the immediate present. Desiring some flashy experience, or anything more or other than 'this' is mere worldly vanity and craving.
John Daido Loori (2010). “The Art of Just Sitting: Essential Writings on the Zen Practice of Shikantaza (Large Print 16pt)”, p.14, ReadHowYouWant.com