What are you supposed to think while meditating?
Discover what you should really be thinking about — or not thinking about — during meditation
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Your mind is like a busy railway station, isn’t it? A constant barrage of thoughts, worries, plans, regrets, and the occasional daydream.
Now, imagine hitting the pause button on that chaotic traffic— that’s the essence of meditation. But what exactly should be running through your head while you’re trying to achieve this serene state?
Spoiler alert: it’s not about thinking at all.
You sit down, cross-legged, trying to channel your inner Buddha. Your initial thought might be, “Am I doing this right?”
Spoiler again: if you’re overthinking it, you’re missing the point.
Meditation is the art of mastering the mind, but not in the way you’d think. It’s less about controlling your thoughts and more about observing them.
Imagine This:
You’re sitting by a tranquil river. Your thoughts are the leaves drifting by on the water. You don’t need to chase the leaves or stop them. Just watch them float. That’s meditation — observing without attachment.
Step into Silence: The Non-Thought Process
Meditation isn’t about eliminating thoughts; it’s about changing your relationship with them. Think of it as a mental spa day, where you treat your brain to some much-needed relaxation.
When you sit down to meditate, start with a focus. This could be your breath, a mantra, or even the flicker of a candle. This focal point serves as an anchor, gently bringing you back whenever your mind drifts away.
Here’s a secret: your mind will wander.
It’s built to think, to solve, to fret. But instead of getting frustrated, just gently guide it back to your anchor. Think of your thoughts like curious children — acknowledge them, but don’t let them control the room.
Embrace the Chaos: It’s Part of the Process
I remember my first attempt at meditation. I sat down, closed my eyes, and within seconds, my mind was a riot of grocery lists, work emails, and a random song stuck on repeat.
Frustrated, I thought, “I’ll never get this right.” But then, I read somewhere that expecting a quiet mind from the get-go is like expecting a puppy not to chew your shoes. It’s going to happen. And that’s okay.
Your job isn’t to force silence but to find stillness amid the noise. Let thoughts come and go. Imagine them as clouds passing across the sky of your mind. They’re temporary, and they don’t define you.
The Beauty of Breathing
Breathing is the unsung hero of meditation.
It’s always there, a constant rhythm to ground you. When your thoughts spiral, return to the simplicity of your breath.
Feel the air fill your lungs, then watch it flow out. It’s this simple act that can bring you back from the brink of a mental whirlwind.
Mantras: Words of Power
For some, a mantra — a word or phrase repeated silently — can be incredibly grounding. It could be something like “Om,” “Peace,” or even “I am calm.”
The repetition anchors the mind, providing a gentle rhythm that overrides the chaotic chatter. It’s like giving your mind a task so it doesn’t wander off into the wilderness.
Unexpected Insights: The Bonus of Meditation
Here’s the twist: meditation isn’t just about peace and quiet.
Sometimes, amid the calm, profound insights bubble up. You might realize a new perspective on a problem, or suddenly feel a surge of creativity.
These moments aren’t the goal, but they’re beautiful bonuses. They remind you that beneath the surface noise, your mind is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration.
Practical Tips for a Deeper Practice
- Consistency Over Duration: It’s better to meditate for 5 minutes daily than an hour once a week. Consistency builds the habit.
- Create a Space: Find a quiet, comfortable spot. Over time, your brain will associate this space with calm.
- Be Kind to Yourself: Don’t judge your meditation. Some days will be easier than others. It’s a practice, not a perfection.
- Guided Meditations: These can be helpful, especially for beginners. Apps like Headspace or Calm offer great guided sessions.
Conclusion: The Essence of Non-Thinking
So, best not to as yourself the question “What are you supposed to think while meditating?”
Ultimately, meditation is a journey of discovery.
It’s not about controlling your thoughts but changing how you interact with them. By embracing the chaos, focusing on your breath, or anchoring with a mantra, you create a space for stillness.
It’s a practice of being present, of letting go, and of finding peace in the middle of the mental storm.
So, next time you sit down to meditate, remember: there’s no right or wrong way to think. Just breathe, observe, and let go.
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