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.
Similar Posts
Cultivate selfcompassion through mindfulness practice
The process of cultivating self-compassion through mindfulness practice involves developing a sense of kindness and understandi...
Live with integrity and authenticity
Living with integrity and authenticity means being true to yourself and others in every aspect of your life. It involves aligni...
The benefits of meditation may not be immediately apparent but will manifest over time
Meditation is not a quick fix. It’s not a magic pill. It’s more like a long-term investment in your own well-being. When you st...
Use affirmations to reinforce your intentions
Affirmations are powerful tools that can help you align yourself with the energy of the universe. By repeating positive stateme...
Develop a routine and stick to it
One of the most powerful ways to combat worry and anxiety is to establish a routine and commit to following it diligently. By d...
Surround yourself with positivity
Fill your environment with positivity. Surround yourself with people who uplift you and inspire you to be your best self. Negat...
Practice visualization techniques to manifest your desires
Visualization techniques are powerful tools that can help you manifest your desires. By visualizing what you want in vivid deta...
Find your passion
The concept of finding your passion is not as simple as it may seem. It requires introspection, self-awareness, and a willingne...
Set clear and achievable goals
Setting clear and achievable goals is crucial to success in any area of life. When you have a specific target to aim for, you a...
Live your truth unapologetically
In this world, we are often pressured by society to conform, to fit into a certain mold, to please others at the expense of our...