Why Can't I Meditate?

I so often hear people say "I just can't meditate"

I think this is because of the many misconceptions surrounding what meditation actually is.

The idea that one must have a completely empty mind during meditation is a common misunderstanding. In reality, meditation is not about emptying the mind of all thoughts, but rather giving the mind one point of focus. When thoughts do arise, we observe them without judgment, and draw our attention back to a chosen point of focus.

Meditation is about cultivating awareness and being present in the moment, regardless of the thoughts that may arise.

By letting go of the expectation that the mind should be silent, individuals can approach meditation with a more open and accepting mindset. Embracing the idea that thoughts will naturally come and go during meditation can help alleviate the pressure to achieve a state of mental emptiness. Instead, the focus shifts to acknowledging thoughts as they arise and gently guiding the attention back to the present moment.

Through regular practice, individuals can learn to navigate their thoughts with greater ease and develop a deeper sense of mindfulness. Meditation becomes a tool for self-discovery and inner peace, allowing individuals to cultivate a more profound connection with themselves and the world around them.

There are many different ways to meditate. We can simply focus on the breath; the inflow and out flow, the rise and fall of the belly, or counting the length of each breath in and out.

We can use affirmations as a powerful tool to reprogram our subconscious mind and cultivate a positive mindset. Affirmations are short, positive statements that we can repeat to ourselves regularly to reinforce a desired belief or outcome. By consistently repeating affirmations, we can shift our thoughts and beliefs in a more constructive direction, thereby influencing our actions and ultimately our reality.

When we use affirmations, it is essential to choose words that resonate with us personally and align with our goals and values. By focusing on these affirmations, we can train our minds to think in ways that support our growth and well-being. The repetition of affirmations helps to override any negative self-talk or limiting beliefs that may be holding us back.

Incorporating affirmations into our daily routine can have a profound impact on our mental and emotional well-being. By integrating positive affirmations into our morning rituals or before bedtime, we can set a positive tone for the day or reinforce our intentions for personal growth and success. The key is to practice affirmations consistently and with genuine belief in their power to create positive change in our lives.

Another type of simple meditation is Zen Meditation, where we simply allow out minds to move from sound to sound

Zen Meditation promotes recognising and observing thoughts as they come up without clinging or criticism. This approach underscores the significance of staying in the present moment and nurturing a feeling of inner calm and serenity. By letting the mind shift from one sound to another, people can enhance their mindfulness and establish a stronger bond with their environment. Regular practice of Zen Meditation can lead to stress reduction, enhanced focus, and better overall health.

Discovering the right approach to Meditation that resonates with you is key.

Experimenting with different styles, and identifying the meditation technique that suits you is a distinctive and individual journey.

At the studio we teach many different, simple ways to meditate, so you can discover what type resonates with you.

The journey in learning to meditate is so profound. Once you find a style that works for you and you begin your own regular practice, the benefits will be life changing. (but more on that in the next post!)

Our Meditation and Breath work classes run every Monday Evening at 7.15pm.