What if my mind wanders while meditating?
If your mind wanders, don't be concerned. Notice whatever has captured your attention, then let go of the thought or feeling, and return to the awareness of the breath. In this way, meditation teaches us gentleness and an ability to forgive our mistakes in life and to go on.
What do I do when my thoughts just won't stop?
Some people have a mistaken idea that all thoughts disappear through meditation and we enter a state of blankness. There certainly are times of great tranquility when concentration is strong and we have few, if any, thoughts. But other times, we can be flooded with memories, plans or random thinking. It's important not to blame yourself. Notice that you don't invite your thoughts. You haven't said, "At 6:15 I'd like to be ruminating about the past or future." Thoughts will automatically and randomly come and go, but we don't have to be ruled by them.
So, with the wandering mind:
Accept that it is wandering. Try to let the thoughts go and focus on your breathing. You can also give the mind an internal travel plan of where to journey- a favorite place/setting and/or use a positive mantra/affirmation as a focus point. Try to be in a physical place/position that is most comfortable for you.
Remember to breath smoothly, quietly, with no jerks or pauses, and at a comfortable, somewhat slow rate.
Enjoy & Relax!
Until next time...
Mindfully,
~Dr. Mike
P.S. Do you know of a family member, friend or collegue that would be interested and/or might benefit from our Newsletter? If so, please feel free to guide them on over! - www.meditationandmore.com
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment