A misunderstanding about meditation
¡Hola, mis amigas! Ivette here, your health coach, finding a moment of quiet reflection in Asturias. Today, I want to talk about something many of us misunderstand about meditation: the idea that it’s about having a completely clear, empty mind.
We see images of serene people with a blissful look and assume that’s the goal. But the truth? Meditation isn’t about having an empty mind; it’s about befriending your messy one.
This of Your Mind As.....
Think of your mind as a crowded room with thoughts, worries, to-do lists, and memories all rushing around. This is what many people call the “monkey mind” — a constant, chattering stream of consciousness.
When you try to meditate, all of that junk in your mind doesn’t just disappear. In fact, it often seems to get louder! You might feel a rush of thoughts about what you need to do today, that embarrassing moment from high school, or an idea for a recipe.
This can be incredibly discouraging, and many people stop because they feel like they’re “failing” at meditation.
I want you to know: that is not a failure; that is the practice.
The real power of meditation
The real power of meditation isn’t in erasing your thoughts. It’s in learning to notice them without judgment. It’s about sitting with all that mental junk, observing it as if you were watching clouds drift by.
You see the thoughts, you acknowledge them, and you gently guide your focus back to your breath. It’s normal to be flooded with all kinds of thoughts and memories.
This simple act of non-judgmental observation is where the magic happens. By consistently practicing, you begin to gain insights into your inner world.
You might notice patterns in your worries, or realize that a certain thought always pops up when you’re feeling stressed. This awareness is a powerful tool. It allows you to understand yourself on a deeper level and to respond to your thoughts and emotions with greater clarity and less reactivity.
“This awareness is a powerful tool.”
Meditation is not about being perfect
Meditation is not about being perfect; it’s about being present. It’s about building a muscle of awareness so that you can navigate your busy life with more grace.
It’s a practice of self-love and radical acceptance. So, the next time you sit down to meditate and your mind is full of noise, smile to yourself. You are doing it right. You are simply practicing the art of being human.
Ready to explore the power of your own mind, just as it is?
Let’s connect.
#MeditationIsNormal #MindfulMeditation #MessyMind #MonkeyMind #IvetteNavarro #HealthCoaching #WomensHealth
sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/12-benefits-of-meditation
https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/10-health-benefits-of-meditation-and-how-to-focus-on-mindfulness-and-compassion/2022/12
https://www.headspace.com/meditation/benefits