Breaking the cycle - advice appreciated!

Post here if you are just starting out with your mindfulness practice. Mindfulness is a really difficult concept to get your head around at first, and it might be that you would benefit from some help from others.
LisaT
Posts: 2
Practice Mindfulness Since: 10 Oct 2015

Fri Jun 30, 2017 12:24 pm  

Hi all!

I have been meditating for about a year and a half now and have seen firsthand the amazing benefits. I struggle with anxiety and a racing mind occasionally.

While I do practice mindfulness meditation daily, I still occasionally get caught up in my thoughts to the point where it really affects my day. Anyone have tips on how to actually remember to be mindful and break the cycle? At those moments I know I should be more present but feel like I can't.

Thanks!
A fellow observer

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Peter
Site Admin
Posts: 696
Practice Mindfulness Since: 19 Aug 2013
Location: The Netherlands

Fri Jun 30, 2017 12:57 pm  

Hi Lisa,

Welcome to the site.

Everybody has that to some degree. Try to remind yourself that it's already like that, and it's okay. Just observe what's going on, and don't try to change anything. It's like quicksand, the more you resist, the harder you sink.

All you can really do is just try to feel and explore this resisting of things. Also, don't beat yourself up for getting distracted from being present. Don't keep scores, or you'll have another problem.

Remember, Mindfulness isn't some switch you can flick to make everything okay.

Peter

LisaT
Posts: 2
Practice Mindfulness Since: 10 Oct 2015

Mon Jul 03, 2017 1:04 pm  

Thank you Peter. This is really helpful!

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Gareth
Site Admin
Posts: 1465

Tue Jul 04, 2017 10:03 am  

Great advice from Peter.

We all get caught up in our thoughts sometimes. We have these thinking machines sat inside our skulls - it's impossible not to get caught up sometimes. Regular meditation is the best way to promote mindfulness in my opinion. And even then it can be difficult - particularly if we are in the midst of a turbulent period in our lives.

Best of luck with your practice!

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