the-simple-complex:

This is a common question I hear from some folks who are just getting into meditation.  It’s tough to convey an answer when some of the support knowledge is in place, but let’s try.

The real question is why you feel the need to purposely think of anything while meditating?

We seem to have a need to always be doing something in modern day society.  And that something isn’t always the best thing for us.  With meditation we look to simply be.  To be present in that moment.

Meditating while purposefully concentrating on specific thoughts isn’t really meditation, in the true sense of the word.

Creative Visualization

This is more so Creative Visualization and was popularized by an excellent book from Shatki Gawain, of the same name.  Also, it is very common for professional athletes to engage in visualization techniques to perfect aspects of their game and to put one in the mindset of the zone before competition.

And while a person may put themselves in a meditative state prior to engaging in Creative Visualization, it is not the same as true meditation.

I am not denigrating the practice of creative visualization.  I was a high level college hockey player and used creative visualization before every game, and even on non-game days during restful states such as before bed time.

What I am saying is that if you are seeking true meditation, then the goal is to have no goal at all.

Just sit.

Just be.

If you find yourself actively thinking and dwelling on certain thoughts, or planning, or playing back scenarios from the prior day, simply acknowledge the thought and get back to your meditation.

It really is as simple as that.

Recommended Reading

• Meditation
• Meditation Will Change Your Brain
• Unlocking the Mystery of Meditation
• VIDEO: Andy Puddicombe: All it takes is 10 mindful minutes
• Increase Libido And Reduce Stress With Meditation And Breathing Exercises
• Pause - A Meditation Primer

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