What To Feel During Meditation?

Embracing the Serenity: What Should You Feel During Meditation?

Meditating can feel like embarking on a tranquil voyage without leaving your cushion or chair. It’s a journey where you’re the captain, steering through the often choppy waters of your mind towards the serene shores of mindfulness. Yet, as many first-time sailors of this inner sea, you might wonder, “What exactly should I be feeling during my meditation voyage?” Fear not, for navigating through the feelings and sensations of meditation isn’t as daunting as it seems.

The Spectacular Spectrum of Meditation Experiences

Diving headfirst into the world of meditation, it’s easy to drown in a sea of expectations. You’ve probably heard tales of profound peace, blinding epiphanies, or even encounters with the mystical. Here’s the kicker, though: meditation isn’t a one-size-fits-all beanie. The tapestry of experiences is rich and varied, stitched with personal nuances and colorful variations. Let’s unpack this, shall we?

1. The Serene Bliss of Nothingness

Many meditators report a profound sense of peace and calm, as if the cacophony of the world has finally hit the mute button. This blissful nothingness is often what hooks people, making them come back for more. Imagine floating in a tranquil sea, where the waves of your thoughts have ceased to crash and thrash about.

2. An Emotional Rollercoaster

Hold onto your hats because, for some, meditation is less about serene seas and more akin to a rollercoaster ride through Emotion Land. One minute you’re in the serene fields of joy and gratitude, and the next, you’re plunging into the depths of sadness or anger. It’s all par for the course. Meditation can stir the sediment at the bottom of your emotional lake, bringing forgotten feelings to the surface.

3. A Circus of Distractions

“Was that my phone? Did I remember to turn off the stove? Oh, what’s that itch on my nose?” Welcome to the circus of distractions, folks! It can often feel like settling into meditation is an open invitation for every thought, itch, and external noise to come out and play. Frustrating? Sure. Normal? Absolutely.

4. Clarity and Insight

There’s something magical about those moments of clarity and insights that slice through the fog of your mind like a lighthouse beam. Perhaps you’ll solve a problem that’s been nagging you or gain a new perspective on a situation. These aha moments, though not guaranteed, are like hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

Navigating Your Meditation Journey

So, you’ve set sail on this meditation voyage, but how do you navigate through the vast waters of experiences and feelings? Here are a couple of buoys to help you stay the course:

• Drop the Map: Leave your expectations at the dock. The beauty of meditation lies in its unpredictability. Embrace whatever arises with open arms and an open heart.
• Compass of Curiosity: Adopt an attitude of curiosity. Explore your feelings and thoughts with the wonder of an intrepid explorer discovering uncharted territories.
• Anchor of Non-Judgment: This might be the most critical tool in your meditation toolkit. Whatever you feel or don’t feel during your practice, greet it without judgment. Remember, there’s no “wrong” way to meditate.

In the grand scheme of things, meditation is less about what you feel and more about the act of noticing and being present with whatever arises. Each meditation session is a drop in the magnificent ocean of your life, contributing to a calmer, more mindful existence. Happy sailing!