Daily Inspiration: Meditation
I used to think meditation was simply letting my mind go blank. That I was supposed to think of nothing and somehow this nothingness would bring me to that state of zen, or whatever it was people talked about. Honestly, I’ve always struggled with meditation, at least in the sit down and set aside this time to meditate sort of way. It’s tricky for me to clear my mind and sit still for long periods of time like that and feel like it’s accomplishing something. Mostly I end up following my mind off on tangents then berating myself for getting off on a tangent and then trying to force my mind back to some sort of peace. Not helpful or peaceful! What I’ve learned through my, often sporadic, meditation practice is that A: It takes practice and exercise to strengthen the “muscles” involved in meditation, and B: my mind doesn’t have to be blank! I can have thoughts, and insights, and follow little tangents. It happens. What is most important is that I keep trying, and trying, and then try some more, to carve out that space to just be with myself, alone in my own mind space. So what I like so much about this quote, is that though I’m not always (or perhaps ever for that matter) “fully present”, I can be at peace with all the discomfort and the challenges that I’m facing, both in life and in my meditation practice. One day maybe I’ll find a place where things are quieter up in my head, and maybe not. All I can do is be present one moment at a time.
laurenjeanyoga 