Accomplished big goal today

[LucidMind]

Hello all!

Today I completed my first 45 minute sitting meditation (with no guided instructions). The longest I have meditated before was 30 minutes, and that seemed difficult! I am trying my best not to judge this 45 minute session, but I am very pleased with myself for doing it! Usually, I count every breath until ten, and then I start over. This time, I started back at one anytime my mind drifted off. This helped me a lot, because it helped me keep in mind that counting to ten was NOT a goal, it's just a tool. Towards the last half of my session I didn't reach ten at all! Starting over at one really helped me stay focused. I would even repeat one a couple of times if I was having trouble concentrating. Anyways, I thought I would share this success with you all! Have a mindful day

[FeeHutch]

While I totally understand the desire not to strive for anything more than to be present and mindful this still feels like a really positive step forward for you thank you for sharing

[Gareth]

I used to meditate like this at first. The returning to one acted both as a recognition that my mind had gone and as a new beginning.

I think these little mini goals are probably very helpful in the beginning. After a while though, I just suddenly stopped breath counting one day and never started again.

[JonW]

Excellent, LucidMind. That's great to hear. As with everything, confidence begets confidence on the mindful path.
All good things, Jon

[LucidMind]

Thanks guys! I appreciate the positive feedback Hopefully my counting tip can help somebody else stay focused. I did 45 minutes again today! I think i'm going to aim for that daily...I could really feel a difference in my days