What Should I Think About When I Meditate?

Unlocking the Zen: What to Ponder During Meditation

Meditation, that age-old practice that whispers promises of inner peace and a decluttered mind, often leaves newcomers and even some seasoned practitioners scratching their heads with a pivotal query: “What on earth should I be thinking about while meditating?” Ah, the irony! Meditation, designed to quiet the mind, yet here we are, trying to figure out how to think our way through it. Fear not, for we’re about to embark on a journey through the realms of thoughtful meditation.

Navigating Your Mental Seascape

First off, let’s bust a myth – meditation isn’t about not thinking anything. It’s more about how you relate to your thoughts and feelings. So, if you find yourself trying to achieve a blank mind and failing miserably, cut yourself some slack. You’re doing just fine. Here’s a smorgasbord of mental morsels you can chew on during your meditation practice:

1. The Breath: Oldie but a goodie. Focusing on your breath is Meditation 101. It’s the anchor that keeps your mind from sailing away with the SS Overthinking. Inhale. Exhale. Repeat. Simple, yet profoundly grounding.

2. Body Scanning: Pay attention to different parts of your body. Start from the tips of your toes and work your way up. It’s like a check-up from the neck down, identifying areas of tension and mentally massaging them away.

3. Mantras and Affirmations: Sometimes, a little positive reinforcement goes a long way. “I am calm,” “I am present,” or even something tailored to your personal goals. Repeat it, believe it, be it.

4. Visualizations: Picture a serene scene – a babbling brook, a lush green forest, or a mountain peak touching the clouds. Feel the peace seep in as you mentally explore this tranquil space.

5. Mindful Observation: Pick a thought or feeling and observe it without judgement. Imagine it’s a cloud floating by in your mental sky – notice it, but let it drift away. It’s about being aware, not critical.

Zen and the Art of Mental Maintenance

Meditation is less about the “right way” to think and more about cultivating a certain attitude towards your thoughts. Here are a couple of nuggets to keep in your back pocket:

• Let it Flow: Thoughts are like a river. Sometimes calm, sometimes a raging torrent. Your job? Be the observer on the bank, watching the river flow by. If you find yourself swept up by the current, gently paddle back to the shore.

• Practice Makes Present: Like any other skill, meditation gets better with practice. Don’t beat yourself up for having “too many thoughts.” Each session is a step towards mastering your mental chatter.

• Embrace the Zen Within: Ultimately, meditation is a deeply personal journey. Whether you’re in it for stress reduction, spiritual growth, or simply seeking a moments’ peace in the hustle and bustle of daily life, your practice is a reflection of your inner landscape.

In the end, asking “What should I think about when I meditate?” is a bit like asking “What’s the best flavor of ice cream?” It’s subjective, and the answer lies in experimenting to find what best satisfies your palate. Whether you’re focusing on your breath, diving deep into affirmations, or simply observing your thoughts like autumn leaves on a stream, the essence of meditation is to be present and to discover what resonates with your soul. Happy meditating!