What Should I Be Thinking About When I Meditate?

Unlocking the Power of Meditation: A Mindful Exploration

Meditation, a timeless practice that has been woven into the fabric of various cultures across the globe, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Yet, despite its age-old fame, many of us find ourselves perched on the edge of a meditation cushion, scratching our heads and wondering, “What in the world should I be thinking about?” Fear not, for the answer might surprise you with its simplicity and depth.

Navigating the Landscape of Your Mind

The Art of Letting Go

First things first, let’s debunk a common myth – meditation isn’t about forcing your mind to be blank. Trying to wrestle your thoughts into submission is like trying to calm a stormy sea by shouting at the waves; it’s not only futile but goes against the very nature of the practice. Instead, meditation is the art of observing. It’s about sitting back and watching the parade of thoughts and emotions march by without getting swept away in the procession.

Anchor Points: A Lighthouse in the Mental Fog

For those just dipping their toes in the meditative waters, anchor points can be a real lifesaver. Think of them as your personal lighthouse guiding you through the mental fog. Here are a few you might consider:

• Breathing: The rhythm of your breath is a classic. It’s always with you, changing moment by moment. Noticing the rise and fall of your chest or the sensation of air passing through your nostrils can be particularly grounding.

• Mantras: These are short, meaningful phrases or sounds you repeat silently. They give your mind a gentle focus, something to come back to whenever you notice it’s wandered off to ponder what’s for dinner.

• Body Scans: Starting from the tips of your toes and moving slowly upwards, paying attention to each part of your body in turn. This not only keeps your mind engaged but can also reveal surprising tensions you’ve been carting around without even realizing it.

Embracing the Monkey Mind

Here’s something any seasoned meditator will tell you – the mind is like a monkey, constantly swinging from one thought to another. And that’s perfectly OK. The goal isn’t to chain the monkey but to observe it with kindness and curiosity. Every time your mind wanders, and you bring it back to your focus point, you’re doing the work. It’s in this relentless return that the magic of meditation truly unfolds.

Mindfulness: Beyond the Cushion

Remember, meditation isn’t restricted to the times when you’re sitting in silence. Mindfulness, a close cousin of meditation, is about bringing that same quality of attention to your everyday life. Whether it’s feeling the soapy water on your hands as you wash dishes or noticing the play of sunlight through the leaves during a casual walk, every moment offers an opportunity for practice.

A Journey of a Thousand Miles

So, what should you be thinking about when you meditate? In short, nothing and everything. Meditation is less about the content of your thoughts and more about your relationship with them. By practicing regularly, you’re embarking on a journey—an exploration of the mind that promises greater peace, clarity, and connection to the present moment. Who knows what wonders you’ll discover along the way?