How To Meditate What To Think About?

Unlocking the Power of Meditation: Mastering Your Mind

In the hustle and bustle of the 21st-century life, finding a moment of peace can seem like searching for a needle in a haystack. Yet, the ancient practice of meditation offers a refuge, a serene island amidst the stormy seas of our daily lives. But once you’ve decided to drop anchor on this tranquil isle, a critical question emerges: “How to meditate? What exactly should one think about?” Fret not, for navigating the waters of meditation is less about the destination and more about the journey. Let’s set sail.

Charting the Course: Basics of Meditation

First thing’s first, let’s debunk a common myth: meditation isn’t about not thinking. It’s about observing your thoughts without judgment. Picture yourself sitting by a river, watching leaves (your thoughts) float by. The goal isn’t to stop the flow of the river but to observe it from the banks.

Here are a few steps to get you started:

• Find your anchor: This could be your breath, a mantra, or even the ambient sounds around you. Your anchor keeps you grounded in the present moment.
• Get comfy, but not too comfy: You want to be comfortable enough to stay still, yet not so comfortable that you doze off. An upright posture usually hits the sweet spot.
• Set a timer: Begin with something manageable—say, five minutes—and gradually increase as you become more adept at maintaining focus.

What’s on Your Mind? Steering Through the Seas of Thought

Now, onto the meat and potatoes: What do you actually think about?

Embracing the Mind’s Nature

Your mind is like a restless child, constantly wandering. Meditation teaches you to be a kind observer. Here’s how:

• Just breathe: Focusing on your breath is a meditation classic for a reason. It gives your mind a gentle nudge to stay in the here and now.
• Mantra marvels: Repeating a mantra—a word or phrase—can be profoundly centering. Whether you choose a traditional Sanskrit phrase like “Om” or a personal affirmation like “I am at peace,” the repetition is mesmerizingly powerful.

Acceptance and Letting Go

A crucial aspect of meditation is learning to observe your thoughts without attachment. Here’s a two-step approach:

1. Notice: “Ah, I’m thinking about that meeting tomorrow.”
2. Release: Gently return your focus to your anchor without scolding yourself.

Active Visualization: A Journey Within

For those who find a blank mind a bit too abstract, guided visualizations offer a captivating alternative. Imagine yourself in a peaceful setting—a forest, a beach, your childhood backyard. Engage all your senses. What do you see, hear, smell? This method not only centers your mind but also reignites your imagination.

The Zen of Doing Nothing

Sometimes, the most profound meditation is simply sitting and existing—no agenda, no goal, just being. This practice, often referred to as “Shikantaza” in Zen Buddhism, emphasizes being fully present and aware without a specific focus for your attention. It’s about being rather than doing.

Anchoring in the Present: The Ultimate Meditation Goal

Remember, the essence of meditation is not to empty your mind or escape reality but to be fully present. It’s about observing life’s ebbs and flows with a serene heart and a clear mind. Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or a curious newbie, every session is a step towards inner tranquility.

As you incorporate meditation into your daily routine, you’ll find that it’s not necessarily about controlling what you think about but rather how you engage with your thoughts. Embrace the journey with an open heart, and let the profound simplicity of meditation guide you to a more peaceful state of being. Who knows what shores you’ll discover within the vast ocean of your mind?