Focus on the present moment from "summary" of A Beginner's Guide to Meditation by Rod Meade Sperry,Editors of the Shambhala Sun
When we talk about focusing on the present moment in meditation, what we're really getting at is the idea of being fully engaged and aware of what's happening right now - not thinking about the past or worrying about the future. This might sound simple, but it's actually quite challenging for most of us. Our minds have a tendency to wander, to get caught up in memories or fantasies, to ruminate on what has happened or what might happen. We're constantly pulled away from the present moment by our thoughts and emotions.
The practice of meditation is about training the mind to stay in the present moment, to anchor itself in what is happening right now. This can be done in a variety of ways - focusing on the breath, paying attention to physical sensations, or simply being aware of whatever thoughts and feelings arise. By doing this, we develop a greater sense of clarity and calm, a deeper connection to ourselves and the world around us.
When we're able to stay present, we're better able to respond to whatever is happening in our lives with wisdom and compassion. We're less likely to get caught up in reactivity or to be overwhelmed by stress and anxiety. By cultivating mindfulness and awareness in meditation, we can bring those qualities into our everyday lives, improving our relationships, our work, and our overall well-being.
Of course, this is easier said than done. Our minds are incredibly powerful and can be very stubborn in their habits. But with practice and patience, we can learn to tame the wild horse of our thoughts and emotions, to bring them under our control and harness their energy for our own benefit. This is the essence of meditation - not escaping from reality, but learning to engage with it fully and deeply, with an open heart and a clear mind.
So the next time you sit down to meditate, remember to focus on the present moment. Let go of the past and the future, and simply be here, now, with whatever is arising in your awareness. This is where true peace and freedom can be found - in the eternal now, in the ever-unfolding present moment.
