Many people think good meditation means having no thoughts. A wandering mind can actually reveal the nature of the mind clearly. When you notice and return, that is practice.
A Wandering Mind Can Be Known
Knowing that the mind is thinking means mindfulness has appeared. There is no need to criticize yourself.
Do Not Follow Every Thought
Simply recognize “thinking” and return to the breath. Meditation time does not need to solve every problem.
Returning Is the Practice
The mind wanders, we know it, and we return. Repeating this gently strengthens mindfulness.
Do Not Chase Special Experiences
You do not need pleasure, lightness, or unusual experiences as proof. Knowing body and mind as they are is more important.
What You Can Do Today
- Sit for 10 minutes.
- Keep the breath natural.
- Notice distraction without blame.
- Return gently to the breath.
One Good Thing Today
Every moment you notice that the mind has wandered is a moment in which mindfulness has been trained.
Come Back Tomorrow
Do not judge meditation by how distracted you were. Notice whether you could recognize and return.
