Today, we’re diving into one of the most common challenges people face when learning to meditate – dealing with the constant activity of the mind. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned meditator, working with your thoughts can be a daunting task. It’s all about changing our relationship with our thoughts, understanding that our brains will always be active and that’s okay.
One common misconception is that when we meditate, our minds should be completely clear and empty. In reality, it’s more about using the experience of being the Observer, stepping back from our thoughts and creating space from them. Instead of getting completely absorbed in our thoughts, we can observe them from a distance.
When a thought arises during meditation, like hearing a dog bark, we can acknowledge it as a present moment thought and try to leave it at that. However, our minds often tend to carry us away, leading to a train of thought that takes us far from the present moment. The key is to gently bring ourselves back to the breath, re-anchoring ourselves in the present moment.
It’s important to cultivate a new relationship with our thoughts, one that is non-judgmental and compassionate. Instead of getting frustrated or chastising ourselves for getting distracted, we can acknowledge the moment of distraction and gently guide ourselves back to presence. This process of reconnecting to the present moment is like a workout for our brains, helping us develop a healthier relationship with our thoughts.
Our thoughts are not the enemy; they can be powerful tools for gaining awareness and wisdom. By creating space and observing our thoughts without judgment, we can learn valuable insights about ourselves. Each time we meditate, we’re practicing this new relationship with our minds, cultivating a sense of openness and curiosity towards our inner workings.
So, the next time your mind wanders during meditation, treat yourself with kindness and praise for coming back to the present moment. Just like you would praise a dog for returning to you, celebrate your own return to presence. By fostering a positive and supportive attitude towards yourself, you can make your meditation practice a safe and nurturing space for growth and self-discovery.
Tomorrow, we’ll explore the importance of empathy in meditation practice. Stay tuned for more insights and tips on cultivating a mindful and compassionate mindset. See you then!
