Sunday 27 July 2014

Meditation is Easy

Meditation is known to help still the mind which is invaluable when attempting to, either incorporate new habits into your life or to halt the practice of undesirable ones.  I've decided to make more of an effort to sit regularly in order to see for myself if it's a practice worth pursuing.

I used to think meditation was difficult.  When attempting it, I was often distracted and felt as if I never achieved a 'successful' meditation.  It discouraged me from being loyal to the practice. 

Through reading and practicing, I've discovered that if I find the time to sit still for a time and am aware of my monkey mind then I am meditating.  If I remember to gently call my wayward focus back to my breath when it strays then I am achieving what I set out to experience in meditation.

Meditation doesn't have to be perfect. 

All it takes is this:

  • Blocking a period of time out; anywhere from ten minutes to forty five or more
  • Sitting still in a comfortable position with something to gaze at like a candle, a horizon, or an icon of your choice
  • Disposing of distractions either by removing them or blocking them from yourself ie. turn phone to vibrate
  • Setting a timer to allow for a stress free sitting and not one wondering "is it ten minutes yet?"
  • Relaxing and becoming aware of your breath, your body, your surroundings and your senses while allowing your mind to 'do it's thing'
  • Gently pulling your thoughts back to dissolve into pure awareness, stillness and consciousness as many times as you need to
Although we are aware of our constant thoughts in our meditation, we do not judge, criticise or comment on them; we just acknowledge them and bring ourselves back to the present.

I'll keep you posted.

2 comments:

  1. Yes! Please do. I have an ADD mind that goes all over the place as soon as I try to quiet it. I'll be interested in how it goes for you. ginger999

    ReplyDelete
  2. I use an app called headspace. It is fantastic.
    Meditation has been a big part of sober journey. I also do yoga every day. I feel so much more present then before.
    I look forward to hearing what you think of meditating!

    ReplyDelete