The moment of mindfulness

“My mind is all over the place — it bounces around so much! This is impossible. I can’t meditate!”

Is there an expectation here? Are you striving? Some days our minds can be noisier than others. That is the way of life sometimes. If we expect our minds to naturally quiet down during our formal practice we will usually be disappointed.

Expectations keep us from actually seeing what is here in the moment.

When you are meditating and you notice that your mind has wandered off, it is okay. Notice that your mind has wandered and guide it back gently, compassionately, like you would a playful puppy who has wandered a bit too far.

Rather than feel disappointed in these moments of awareness, congratulate yourself! These are the life-changing moments of awakening that we are here for. It’s true. The moment you shift from the seductive story your mind has run off with, back into the present moment — this is the truest essence of personal awakening. You are doing it right!

Continue to notice these moments of mindfulness over and over again in your life and celebrate your inherent capacity to awaken to the present.

If you are interested in working with a mindfulness meditation teacher toward a formal practice contact Larissa to see if she might be a good fit.