When I teach meditation classes in Bondi Junction, in the first session I go through three simple concepts that often surprise people.
They seem to go against a lot of what we've picked up about meditation from popular culture, but once you get your head around them, they make meditation so much more enjoyable.
1. Thoughts are good
We grow up with the idea that thoughts in meditation are bad but that's not true! Thoughts in meditation mean you're releasing stress. Think of it like having too many applications open on your computer. You need to revisit each one to close it down. Afterwards you'll have a lot more mental capacity.
2. Effort is bad
When things aren't going as we hoped, it's tempting to put more effort in to try to fix them. Failing maths at school? Revise more. Falling behind on a project at work? Stay back late. But as meditation is the art of relaxing, it's about seeing if you can give up the need to succeed. Success comes in meditation when we give up the need for it.
3. You're not in control (and that's OK)
Like on a rollercoaster, if you're trying to control the ride, you're not going to have a very good time. Rather than trying to hold on tight, just sit back and enjoy the ride, whatever ups and downs it takes you on. In the game of relaxation, it doesn't pay to be in control.
Want to learn more? Come to a meditation class in Bondi Junction.
Not in Sydney? Why not check out our partner site in Germany: Meditation Teachers Berlin.