How To Keep The Mind Focused During Meditation?
Many people think that meditation is not for them. They think they can’t stop thinking about other things no matter how hard they try, it’s impossible to keep the mind focused during meditation. Some even think they are unable to relax. Therefore, it must be understood that meditation will not stop you from thinking or make your mind completely empty.
If you have repetitive thoughts while meditating, don’t worry! It is perfectly normal because our mind is a very active machinery. In fact, it is estimated that we have 60,000 to 80,000 different ideas every day. Because of these figures, it is logical that intentionally turning off the thought process is not easy.
Meditation teaches that one should not cling to thoughts, nor escape with them. It allows us to let thoughts come and go, but without allowing ourselves to be carried away by the story or the emotions that produce it. For this reason, it is important for you to learn how to keep your mind focused during meditation.
1. Inhale
Focusing on the task works wonders for the mind. Breathing exercises are a good way to keep your mind focused. They also help your body relax.
This technique allows you to calculate inhalations and exhalations. For example, you can count from one to one hundred. If your mind starts to wander and you find that you’ve been tied up on your bills, don’t rush, it won’t hurt. Remember to be kind to yourself and just start over.
2. Draw or Imagine shapes
Try to draw a triangle in your mind while doing breathing exercises (inhale, exhale, and hold your breath). It does not have to be a triangle. You might as well draw a square. It is your choice.
You can also help yourself by focusing on the shape of an object near you and this can make it easier for you to focus. Try lighting a candle and try to focus on the shape of the flame.
3. Practice guided meditation
There is no right or wrong in meditation. Quiet meditation is one way, or you can use a guide to help you. When someone tells you what to visualize, the mind will probably focus only on what he or she is saying. You imagine the things he tells you so your mind doesn’t get lost.
There are several options for guided meditation. Try different videos as well as audio samples and save the ones you like the most. The best part is that many of them can be found online for free, so research and find one you like.
4. Accept your thoughts
When you practice quiet meditation, instead of trying to push your thoughts out, welcome them. When you try not to think about something, you just think about it more. Receiving your thoughts will make you feel freer. If you don’t like your thoughts, put them in a pleasing picture in your mind.
For example, you can imagine that your mind is a blue sky and your thoughts are clouds running through it. Or that your mind is a river and your thoughts are branches that flow in it. That way you let your thoughts come and go and you don’t cling to them. Just watch as they flag off.
5. Write down your thoughts
If you have a lot on your mind, you could write down your thoughts before meditating. That way, you won’t keep your thoughts inside, and they won’t become an obsession for you.
Write down all your thoughts without analyzing or judging them. Don’t think about them too much. The most important thing is that you express yourself by typing. Putting your thoughts on paper will help you relax as you meditate.
6. Meditate regularly
Meditation at the same time and in the same place every day creates a routine. Your brain knows what is coming and is preparing for it. This way you will feel more comfortable while meditating. Your mind isn’t used to being quiet, so if you do this only occasionally, your mind has to force your thoughts back inside because it does so naturally.
Therefore, it is important to create a way to free yourself from your thoughts. Only then can you keep your mind from wandering while meditating.
Don’t underestimate the power of meditation
Meditation is simple but not easy. But it’s worth keeping as part of your daily routine. Studies have shown that practicing this technique can have positive effects on people’s mental well-being and physical health.
In addition, it has been found to work in the treatment of serious illnesses such as depression, anxiety, heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep disorders and chronic pain. Following the tips in this article on meditation will make it much easier for you. Now it is your turn. Meditate, and the results will surprise you!