What To Do With a Restless Mind

Does your mind ever wander? Great, you are alive and human!

The fact that the mind wanders is as common as the desire for food or sleep. The human mind just does. The mind will produce thoughts on its own. But that does not mean you won't be able to meditate.

Here is an excerpt from the Tibetan meditation master Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche "When you first begin to meditate, the movement of thoughts may feel like a rushing waterfall. But as you continue to apply the technique of recognizing thoughts and returning your focus to the breath, the torrent slows down to a river, then to a meandering stream, which eventually flows into a deep, calm ocean."

If you are out of shape and begin an exercise routine, the first few sessions may be less than fun. In fact, you may feel worse than you did before you started. This is just part of starting an exercise regimen. Similarly, recognizing one's active mind is simply part of the process when it comes to meditation.

The good news is that the mind will settle eventually… the better news is that even when the mind is active it will not be a problem. Mindfulness is the practice of non-judgmental awareness, and that goes for our relationship with thoughts too.

A great master once said, "It's ok to have thoughts, just don't think anything of them". So, as thoughts arise, remind yourself that it's ok to have them and they can be observed just like anything else, just as another "something" arising within your awareness.

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Iron Spine provides a new way to be reminded of our universal wisdom and compassion that aligns with the purpose of yoga and meditation. Find us on instagram @ironspineco to stay in touch and learn more.