Starting mindfulness again.

[Newk]

Hello

I tried mindfulness a few years ago and found it quite hard to do. I was following the finding peace book.

I have an unhealthy tendancy to get a bit obsessive with stuff so I spent a lot of time thinking and researching about mindfulness rather than just getting on with it. I did practice every day though.

I think I'm going to try again but just do 10 Min of mindfulness of breath every day (if I can) and take all the pressure off. Then build up from there.

I guess my question is, from the finding peace book there is a lot more too it than just doing mindfulness of breath, so it it worth me even trying? Will just doing mindfulness of breath slowly help me develop being mindful?

Thanks

[Peter]

Hi Newk,
I think your idea is great. Trying is always better than doing nothing. If you've a obsessive tendency, I think it is a good thing to build it up slowly, because practicing mindfulness can trigger that obsessiveness. Let us know once in a while how it goes.

[JonW]

'I guess my question is, from the finding peace book there is a lot more too it than just doing mindfulness of breath, so it it worth me even trying?'

It is, yes. Mindfulness of breath is an important part of practice but not the only part.
I always say that it is crucial to get a firm grounding in the practice and also to keep practice fresh by mixing up the meditations - sitting, walking, mindful movement, body scans.
Awareness of body is just as important as awareness of thoughts.
Do let us know how you get on, Newk.
All best wishes,
Jon